Parental Leave Benefits in Denmark
Parental leave benefits (barselsdagpenge) are paid to parents who take leave from work in connection with pregnancy, birth, and adoption. The benefit is calculated based on your hourly wage and weekly working hours, but is capped at a maximum rate set by the government. In 2026, the maximum rate is 5,085 kr per week before tax for full-time employees (37 hours), equivalent to 137.43 kr per hour.
How parental leave benefits are calculated
If your salary is below the maximum dagpenge rate, you receive your full salary as barselsdagpenge. If your salary is above the cap, you receive the maximum rate unless your employer tops up the difference through a collective agreement (overenskomst). Many Danish employers offer full salary during part or all of the leave period. The calculator shows both the capped benefit and the difference from your regular monthly salary.
Who pays parental leave benefits?
Barselsdagpenge are paid by Udbetaling Danmark. If your employer pays full salary during leave, they receive a refund from Udbetaling Danmark up to the dagpenge rate. The remaining cost is borne by the employer. As an employee, you must meet an employment requirement of at least 160 hours within the last four full months to be entitled to parental leave benefits.
Leave model and benefit entitlement
Each parent is generally entitled to 24 weeks of leave with benefits after birth. The leave is divided into earmarked and transferable leave. Use this parental leave calculator to understand the financial impact on your household income and plan your parental leave effectively.