For three years this August, the Copenhagen Host Program has been putting newcomers to Denmark in touch with local hosts who help them adapt to the job market and cultural life.

Since 2011, 500 newcomers have been matched up with hosts, and over the next year, another 350 are expected to follow suit. 

Choose from two options
The program, which is free of charge to any city resident who has been in Denmark for less than three years, has two options: 'Foreningen Nydansker' or 'Danish Refugee Council'. 

Allocated according to common professional backgrounds, a volunteer host from 'Foreningen Nydansker' will provide useful information about education and the job market. 

While the 'Danish Refugee Council' matches newcomers and hosts according to common interests, as they meet to take part in social activities in their local community. 

Embrace the program 
"It is important that we embrace the growing number of foreigners seeking jobs in Copenhagen," the deputy mayor for employment and integration, Anna Mee Allerslev, said in a press release.

A survey by the City Council suggests that 91 percent of the participants were satisfied with the project and that 76 percent felt it had a positive effect on their stay in Denmark.