Definition

Young worker

What does it mean?

Young workers (ungarbejdere) face special protection under Danish law and collective agreements: limits on working hours, night work, heavy lifting and hazardous tasks for under-18s.

Pay may follow youth rates in some agreements — lower than adult minimums but with progression by age or experience. Verify rates against your collective agreement.

Employers must ensure work does not harm education — school attendance takes priority for minors. Written parental consent may be required for under-15 employment.

Young workers have full basic employment rights including contract, breaks and safe environment. Unions (e.g. HK Ung) advise young members on rights and disputes.

Magnus Villumsen, Content Creator at Arbejd.com
Defined by Arbejd.com

Magnus Villumsen

Content Creator
Last updated
March 7, 2026