VET allowance and the economy in an AMU welding course

AMU courses in welding are basically cheap or free for the participant compared to private courses, but it is not just the course price that matters – it is also whether you can get your lost wages covered while you sit in school instead of at work.

VEU allowance (allowance for vocational adult and continuing education) is a financial scheme that compensates for lost income when an employee takes part in an approved adult vocational training course — including AMU courses in welding. If you receive wages during the course, it is your employer who receives the allowance as compensation. The employer applies at the same time as you are enrolled in the course. The allowance is paid at a fixed rate regardless of the individual's normal hourly wage.

Both employees and in certain cases self-employed persons can apply for VEU allowance for AMU courses if the course is covered by the scheme. The application is typically handled in collaboration with the school offering the course and payment requires documented participation. Rules and exact conditions can change so it's always a good idea to clarify the specific course's status with the school before registering.

In addition to the allowance itself for lost earnings, there is a transport allowance for adult vocational training courses (AMU), which can cover part of the transport costs if the distance to the course location exceeds a certain limit. In 2026 the allowance is DKK 1.59 per km. In practice this makes it possible to take a relevant welding course even when the nearest course is not right around the corner.

• 01The VEU allowance goes to the employer when you receive wages during the course
• 02The rate is set centrally and is the same for everyone regardless of personal hourly wage
• 03Dampen, pack tightly, label; deliver separately as hazardous waste
• 04Unions and AMU providers can help clarify what you're specifically entitled to.

For many skilled and unskilled workers the economic uncertainty is the biggest barrier to taking yet another certificate. When the loss of income during the course is covered by a fixed allowance and transport is partially covered the calculation typically becomes clear in favour of taking the course — especially because a new welding certificate often pays for itself many times over in the form of better wages and more job opportunities.