Participating in a paid internship on Danish farms presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a European country renowned for its high standard of living, while simultaneously acquiring invaluable practical skills.
For students aiming to enhance the agricultural practices in their home countries, these internships serve as a crucial stepping stone, allowing them to gain firsthand experience in modern agricultural enterprises and to learn about advanced European agricultural technologies.
This internship not only offers insights into Denmark's demographics, lifestyle, culture, and traditions but also provides a foundation of experience and ideas essential for enriching the agricultural sector in their home countries.
Prospective interns have the flexibility to choose the type of farm for their internship. Many farms offer a diversified approach, integrating the cultivation of grains and industrial crops with various aspects of animal husbandry. Interns involved in animal husbandry will focus on the care of livestock such as cows and pigs, alongside occasional fieldwork using agricultural machinery.
Interns will gain practical experience, guided by Danish legal regulations:
Housing prices depend on each individual case during the internship. The price is set by the employer from 1000 DKK to 2500 DKK per month.
Accommodation, provided to the intern always includes a separate room with all convenience. Often this room is located in a separate house or in another room. In most cases, there is Internet, conditions for using a washing machine are always created. Living separately, the interns have their own little kitchen where they can cook their own food.
When arriving in the country, interns are provided with a CPR number.
The Danish CPR number, an abbreviation for "Det Centrale Personregister," translates to "The Central Person Registry." It is a unique identification number assigned to all residents of Denmark, including citizens and expatriates. Consisting of ten digits, the CPR number is formatted as DDMMYY-XXXX, where DDMMYY represents the individual's birth date and XXXX is a sequence of four digits. This number is pivotal in Denmark's administrative system and is used across various sectors, from healthcare to taxation, banking, and even when dealing with the police or public libraries.
Upon registration with the Danish Civil Registration System, individuals receive a CPR number, which is essential for accessing public services and benefits, including healthcare services through the national health insurance system. Alongside the CPR number, residents are issued a health insurance card (the yellow health card), which serves as proof of entitlement to health services in Denmark. This card is necessary when visiting healthcare professionals, hospitals, or pharmacies.
The most sought-after program options include Dairy Farm Internships, Pig Farm Internships, and Greenhouse Internships.
Denmark's agricultural sector is renowned for its foundation in innovation, sustainability, and high standards. The dairy industry, characterized by sophisticated technologies and a cooperative framework, is known for producing globally recognized, high-quality products. Pig farming in Denmark prioritizes animal welfare, adhering to stringent regulations and leveraging efficient, automated systems for feeding and waste management. Additionally, greenhouses, equipped with advanced climate control and environmentally friendly practices, facilitate the year-round cultivation of a variety of crops. Denmark's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence has established its agricultural practices as a worldwide benchmark for efficiency and responsible production.
*depends on which department of the pig farm you will be working in.
Please note that internships can only be undertaken once.
Fee for a Danish visa is 4.740 danish kroner (approx. 632 euros).
When applying from your country of residence, the visa fee is 1.700 danish kroner (approx.230 euro).
All prices are specified for 2024.
A document stating that you have experience in the agricultural sector is not mandatory.
Interns are covered by an insurance scheme at Pension Denmark, which is paid for by the host company.
The insurance scheme at Pension Denmark, paid for by host companies for their interns, offers a comprehensive range of benefits designed to provide financial security and support in various situations. Key benefits of this scheme include:
Health Insurance: Interns have access to health insurance that covers a range of medical treatments, including preventive care, consultations, and certain medical procedures not covered by the public health system. This ensures timely and effective medical care without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.
Accident Insurance: The scheme provides coverage in case of accidents occurring during the training. This coverage extends to injuries sustained while engaged in training activities, offering compensation for medical treatments and rehabilitation, thereby minimizing the financial impact on the intern.
Disability Coverage: In the unfortunate event that an intern becomes permanently disabled due to an accident or illness related to their training, the insurance scheme offers financial support. This coverage is designed to provide a safety net, ensuring financial stability during challenging times.
Pension Contributions: Although more commonly associated with full-time employment, some schemes may include provisions for pension contributions on behalf of the intern. This early start in pension savings can significantly benefit the intern's long-term financial security.
Support Services: Beyond financial benefits, the scheme may offer support services such as counseling and advice, helping interns navigate challenges related to training or personal issues. These services aim to support the overall well-being of the intern.
Flexibility and Peace of Mind: Knowing that they are covered by a comprehensive insurance plan, interns can focus on their learning and professional development without worrying about potential financial risks. This peace of mind is invaluable for both personal and professional growth.
Attractiveness to Prospective Interns: For host companies, offering an insurance scheme as part of the internship package makes their positions more attractive to prospective interns. It demonstrates a commitment to the welfare of their interns, helping to attract talented individuals looking for a supportive and nurturing environment.
Overall, the insurance scheme at Pension Denmark, funded by host companies for their interns, provides a robust support system that enhances the internship experience. It underscores a commitment to the well-being and development of interns, preparing them for future challenges while ensuring their safety and security during their internship period.
To start an internship in Denmark, you need to have a certificate in English (one of KET / IELTS / TOFEL) with a level no lower than Pre-Intermediate (A2 by international scale). It is easier and cheaper to pass KET (Key English Test).
