Stockholm, Sweden
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Sweden is taking steps to enhance its appeal to highly skilled foreign professionals by proposing significant changes to its EU Blue Card system.
The Swedish government has presented a new bill to the Riksdag, outlining measures to improve the country's ability to attract and retain top international talent. If approved, these changes will come into effect on January 1, 2025. The proposed modifications are designed to implement the new EU Blue Card Directive which replaces the 2009 version. The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit for highly skilled non-EU workers who meet specific criteria. Sweden's proposals aim to make the Blue Card more accessible and attractive to qualified professionals.
Key changes in the new proposal include a reduced salary threshold, requiring only 1.5 times the average gross salary in Sweden. This adjustment will make it easier for highly qualified foreign workers to meet the financial eligibility criteria. Additionally, the employment contract requirement has been shortened to just six months to improve access for short-term professionals. The updated directive will also expand eligibility to a wider range of professionals, including those in industries and sectors previously excluded from the program.
The new rules will offer greater flexibility, allowing EU Blue Card holders to switch to other highly qualified jobs without needing to apply for a new Blue Card. Furthermore, the changes will facilitate seamless transitions for foreign workers with other types of residence permits to switch to the EU Blue Card. The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit designed for non-EU citizens seeking employment in Europe in highly qualified roles. It allows professionals with a job offer in a highly skilled field to live and work in an EU member state.
The main requirements include a university degree equivalent to 180 credits or at least five years of professional experience, an employment offer with a salary 1.5 times higher than the national average, and a minimum six-month employment contract. The EU Blue Card also offers benefits such as intra-EU mobility which enables professionals to move and work in other EU countries more easily.