Is Denmark’s budget surplus thanks to internationals?

Between 2002 to 2023, Denmark’s annual public balances have been underestimated by an average of 1,8% of GDP each year by the Ministry of Finance. The continued error accumulates 1,049 billion DKK unaccounted for the whole 20-year span. As the Danish government increasingly attracted international residents over that period, to what extent are internationals contributing to the country’s economic growth?

Photo: Pexels

International workers in Denmark contributed to 11.6% of the country’s total GDP in 2023

Julie Llopes

May 19, 2025

From an international’s perspective, it’s an odd problem to have: how can a country possibly have “too much” money? But in Denmark, public finances have been consistently underestimated over the last 20 years. Basically, the country brings in more money than it predicted. From 2002 to 2023, the Ministry of Finance’s forecasts missed the mark […]

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Photo: Pexels
International workers in Denmark contributed to 11.6% of the country’s total GDP in 2023

Is Denmark’s budget surplus thanks to internationals?

Between 2002 to 2023, Denmark’s annual public balances have been underestimated by an average of 1,8% of GDP each year by the Ministry of Finance. The continued error accumulates 1,049 billion DKK unaccounted for the whole 20-year span. As the Danish government increasingly attracted international residents over that period, to what extent are internationals contributing to the country’s economic growth?
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