I'd say a year would also be a reasonable estimate here once the person is out of their 6 month probation period. It varies by country how much easier life is during the probation (easier in Sweden, not super much easier in Norway, not sure about Denmark). However, I've heard cases where HR people simply refuse to go through with the actual process because they don't believe the case is strong enough.

Interesting you've experienced it taking a year in the US. I would've assumed with employment at will that it was easier, but I guess they want to cover themselves from lawsuits.