Fathers in Denmark take longer parental leave

Fathers in private companies in Denmark are taking longer parental leave. An analysis by the trade union Djøf shows a clear rise. Last year, these fathers took an average of 15.2 weeks off work. In 2023, the average was 12.7 weeks.

This shift follows new parental leave rules introduced in 2022. Under these rules, each parent gets 11 earmarked weeks of paid leave. Earmarked means you cannot transfer these weeks to your partner. If you do not use them, you lose them.

For international employees in Copenhagen, this system directly affects family planning. Both parents must plan their time off separately. Local workplace culture now fully supports fathers taking extended leave. Employers expect both men and women to use their full leave entitlement.