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HRsolution » COUNTRIES » Greenland

  1. Population

    Greenland has a population of about 56,000 (as of 2023). The majority of the population consists of Inuit (about 88%), with a smaller proportion of people of European descent, particularly Danes.

  2. Capital

    The capital of Greenland is Nuuk, the largest city with around 19,000 inhabitants. Nuuk is Greenland’s economic and cultural hub.

  3. Economic Power

    Greenland’s economy is heavily dependent on fishing, particularly shrimp and halibut, and on subsidies from Denmark. Natural resources such as oil, gas, and rare earth elements may play a larger role in the future. The GDP per capita stands at around 54,000 USD (2022). Tourism, especially focused on Arctic nature and culture, is also a growing sector.

  4. Culture

    Greenlandic culture is deeply rooted in Inuit traditions, including hunting, fishing, and craftsmanship. Music, dance, and art are strongly tied to indigenous customs, with drum dancing and singing being traditional forms of expression. Greenlandic, an Eskimo-Aleut language, is the official language alongside Danish. Scandinavian influences also play a significant role in cultural life.

  5. Currency

    Greenland uses the Danish Krone (DKK) as its official currency since it is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark.

  6. Health Insurance and Social Security System

    Greenland operates a public health and social insurance system modeled after Denmark’s. It is tax-funded and provides free healthcare services to citizens, including medical care and hospital stays. The social security system covers pensions, unemployment benefits, and social welfare, similar to the Danish system.

  7. Employer Costs

    Employers contribute to the social security system, covering pensions and unemployment benefits. Contribution rates are aligned with Danish regulations. Employers may also have costs associated with taxes and unemployment insurance, as well as optional private pension plans.

  8. Salary and Bonuses

    Salaries in Greenland are relatively high compared to global standards, due to the country’s isolation and higher living costs. The average annual salary ranges between 300,000 and 400,000 DKK. Bonuses are not legally mandated but are sometimes offered as performance incentives or year-end bonuses.

  9. Payroll

    Payroll typically includes deductions for taxes and social security contributions, similar to the Danish system. Income tax in Greenland is progressive, ranging from 36% to 44%, depending on income and region.

  10. Public Holidays

    Greenland follows a public holiday calendar similar to Denmark, including:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Easter (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday)
  • Great Prayer Day (fourth Friday after Easter)
  • Ascension Day
  • Pentecost
  • Christmas (December 24, 25, and 26)
  • Greenland’s National Day (June 21)

  1. Working Hours

    The standard workweek in Greenland is typically 40 hours, spread over five days. Overtime is common and must often be compensated with additional pay, depending on collective agreements or individual contracts.

  2. Vacation

    Employees in Greenland are entitled to at least five weeks of paid vacation per year. There are also public holidays, which are counted as paid vacation days.

  3. Sick Leave

    In the event of illness, employees are entitled to continued wage payments for up to 30 days. After this period, the social security system takes over and provides sickness benefits. Specific terms may vary based on collective bargaining agreements.

  4. Termination/Severance

    Notice periods for termination depend on the length of employment and are specified in employment contracts or collective agreements. Under certain conditions, employees are entitled to severance pay, particularly for long-term employment or in the case of layoffs. Severance can amount to one month’s salary per year of service, depending on the terms.

Greenland offers a unique lifestyle with its breathtaking nature and deep connection to Inuit culture. However, life on the island is also marked by its remoteness and harsh weather conditions, though the Danish welfare and economic system provides a stable foundation for social security and economic sustainability.

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