Maternity/paternity leave when you’re self-employed

If you’re self-employed (selvstændig), you may be entitled to maternity/paternity benefits (barselsdagpenge) from Udbetaling Danmark. Since 1 January 2021, it has also been possible to receive a monthly compensation in addition to the maternity/paternity benefits.

You can apply for maternity/paternity benefits and compensation through Udbetaling Danmark on Virk.dk.

We at the unemployment insurance fund (a-kasse) are not involved in the administration of maternity/paternity benefits for the self-employed. If you have questions about your eligibility for maternity/paternity benefits, the application process or how the benefits are paid out, please contact Udbetaling Danmark directly.

Self-employed individuals included in Barsel.dk

Since 1 January 2021, self-employed people have been included in Barsel.dk’s programme. This means that if you’re self-employed and on maternity/paternity leave, you may be eligible for a monthly compensation in addition to your maternity/paternity benefits. 

The Barsel.dk contribution for the self-employed is going to be paid annually in the future. In 2025, the annual contribution is DKK 1,550. However, not all self-employed individuals are required to pay. You can check whether the contribution applies to you on virk.dk.

You can also find answers to the most common questions about maternity/paternity benefits for the self-employed on borger.dk.

Read about maternity/paternity benefits for the self-employed at borger.dk