Princess Isabella forgoes pay during Danish military service

Princess Isabella of Denmark has opted to waive her salary and daily allowance during her upcoming 11-month compulsory military service. The Danish royal house confirmed that the princess will begin her service on August 3rd at the Gardehusar Regiment in Slagelse, foregoing the standard monthly pay of 9,034.17 Danish kroner and a daily tax-free allowance of 277 kroner.

This decision aligns with a precedent set by the royal family in 2016. At that time, it was decided that only her elder brother, Crown Prince Christian, would receive an allowance once he establishes his own household and requires personal staff. Crown Prince Christian also did not receive pay or allowances from the Defense Forces during his own military service at the same regiment.

Princess Isabella will be among the first to undergo the extended conscription period, which includes five months of basic training followed by six months of operational service. This longer term was established as part of the 2024-2033 defense agreement. She recently completed her secondary education at Øregård Gymnasium.

Serving in the military is a tradition within the Danish royal family. Her father, King Frederik, also served at the Gardehusar Regiment, eventually becoming a reserve lieutenant and platoon commander. Crown Prince Christian recently completed his officer training and will serve as a platoon commander for conscripts starting in August 2026.