Call for longer post-study visa in Denmark

One of Denmark’s coalition government partners is calling for non-EU students to be given up to three years after graduation to look for work in the country.

Students from outside the EU currently receive only six months to search for employment after completing their education, even though many students receive grants from the Danish government while they are studying. The Social Liberal Party (Radikale) is lobbying for an extension to three years.

“Talented foreigners are being turfed out of Denmark, even though they could make the country richer by staying and working after they finish their education,” said Radikale’s Labour Market spokesperson, Nadeem Farooq. “Our businesses need to have the best possible opportunities for recruiting good employees.”

The proposal is thought to have broad political support, although it would need agreement from all coalition partners. The government is set to announce an overhaul of immigration policy later this year, and Radikale wants post-study work rights to be included.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, a number of government ministers have called for an increase in the number of vocational training courses taught in English in order to attract more international students.

Trade and Investment Minister, Pia Olsen Dyhr, said, “Countries such as New Zealand and Australia earn billions exporting education to Asia. They have an advantage because of their language, so we need to make an extra effort to teach in English.” The vocational sector was outlined as the area with the most growth potential, with teaching and nursing cited as successful examples.