The importance of local language in Denmark

The local language is Danish. I’ve learned it over many years of being married to a Dane before moving here. But anyone who moves here legally and has a residency card can take Danish lessons for free, paid for by the government.

Most business is conducted in Danish by default, but the vast majority of people speak English as well, so customers can usually just as easily use English.

Workplaces where the workforce is often international, like tech and advertising, often use English in the office for business purposes. So you don’t necessarily need Danish to work here. But it helps a lot.

It’s easier to fit in socially if you speak Danish, and learn about Danish traditions and culture. It’s such a small country that these things are a big part of what ties Danes together, so you’re essentially forever left out (on some level) if you don’t get on board, so to speak.

That said, there are tons and tons of expats from everywhere here, most of whom communicate in English. So there will be non-Danes to connect with regardless.

My favorite method for learning Danish when I first started was at the website [link moderated]. It’s not well-known, but very, very good.