Losing a job is never easy, especially in a country with a small labour market like Greenland. The good news is that there is support available if you find yourself out of work. Greenland doesn’t use unemployment insurance funds like Denmark or other Nordic countries. Instead, financial support is handled locally through the municipalities and coordinated by Majoriaq centres, which you’ll find in every Greenlandic town.
This article walks you through who qualifies for unemployment benefits, what your responsibilities are, and how to apply.
Also read: How to work in Greenland for foreigners
What Is Majoriaq?
Majoriaq is much more than an office where you fill out paperwork. It’s a community centre that helps unemployed residents in several ways:
- Assists with unemployment benefit applications
- Offers training and skill-building programs
- Helps the long-term unemployed with rehabilitation
- Guides you in improving your qualifications to land a new job
So, if you lose your job, your first step is to walk into your nearest Majoriaq centre.
How to Find a Job in Greenland
Who Can Get Unemployment Benefits in Greenland?
To qualify for benefits, you need to meet certain conditions:
- You became unemployed through no fault of your own (for example, your contract ended).
- You’re 18 or older (unless you have dependents).
- You’re registered in Greenland’s national population register.
- You’ve worked at least 182 hours in the last 13 weeks before becoming unemployed.
👉 If you’ve just finished school or training and haven’t worked, you unfortunately don’t qualify for benefits.
Your Responsibilities While on Benefits
Unemployment support in Greenland is not a “free check.” To keep your benefits, you must:
- Accept the suitable work offered by your municipality
- Take part in creating your personal plan of action
- Show up for any training, skill-enhancement, or employment programs you’re assigned
Failing to do so could mean losing your benefit.
How to apply for unemployment in Greenland
Applying is simple but requires preparation. Here’s what you’ll need to bring to your local Majoriaq centre:
- Proof you’re no longer employed (termination letter, end of contract, etc.)
- Payslips for the past 3 months or 13 weeks
- Educational or course certificates (if relevant)
- Your tax card
- Your bank account number
Once you hand in your application, the staff will review it immediately and let you know if you qualify—and how much you’ll receive.
Keep Majoriaq Updated
Life changes quickly, and if your situation changes, you must inform your Majoriaq centre. Examples include:
- Starting a new job
- Moving to a new address
- Receiving another type of public support
If you don’t report these changes, you might have to pay back benefits you weren’t entitled to.
Final Thoughts
Being unemployed in Greenland can be daunting, but the system is designed to provide you with financial breathing room while you find your next opportunity. The key is to stay active, participate in training programs, and keep in touch with your local Majoriaq centre.
With the right support, you’ll not only get through unemployment but also improve your chances of finding a stronger position in the future.