Amended Executive Order on the Integration of Foreigners in Denmark (Integration Act)

The amended Act establishes Denmark’s framework for the allocation, accommodation, and integration of refugees and certain family-reunified third-country nationals in Denmark. 

According to the provisions of the amended order, the Danish Immigration Service is responsible for setting annual national, regional, and municipal refugee quotas and for determining the municipality of residence for each refugee. Municipalities are responsible for providing temporary or permanent accommodation, covering relocation-related costs, and supporting the geographical distribution of refugees across Denmark. Where municipalities fail to ensure adequate accommodation capacity, the Immigration Service may intervene directly.

The amended Order, further clarifies municipal responsibilities in relation to health and integration measures. Municipalities must offer health assessments to refugees where deemed necessary following an individual assessment of physical or mental health needs. Refugees granted protection under section 8 of the Aliens Act must always be offered such assessments. Health assessments must normally be carried out within six months after the municipality assumes responsibility and must include a medical interview, physical and mental health examination, and an assessment of any need for further treatment. The assessments must be conducted by a medical doctor, and relevant health information may, subject to consent, be shared between the municipality, healthcare professionals, and integration authorities to support integration planning and continuity of care.

According to the amended order, a structured introduction programme for refugees and eligible family-reunified persons over the age of 18 is introduced. The programme is focusing on labour-market participation including self-employment, Danish language courses, and preparation for self-sufficiency. The programme shall start within one month after municipal responsibility is assumed. The programme is intended to facilitate access to ordinary employment within one year and may continue for a maximum period of five years. Municipalities are required to establish an individual integration contract setting employment or education objectives, activities, rights, and obligations, while also monitoring participation and compliance of the participants.

In addition, the amended Act, establishes local Integration Councils and the National Integration Council. Municipal councils may establish local Integration Councils to advise on local integration matters. At national level, the National Integration Council serves as an advisory body to the Minister for Immigration and Integration on integration policy and related matters. The Council includes representatives elected through local structures, members nominated by major municipalities, and members appointed directly by the Minister. The Council may advise on general integration policy but may not issue opinions on individual cases.