Sweden Eases EU Blue Card Rules with Lower Salary and Job Requirements

Sweden has unveiled significant updates to its EU Blue Card rules, set to take effect on January 1, 2025. 

These changes aim to attract and retain highly skilled foreign workers while simplifying the application process for both employees and employers.

The relaxed regulations align with the EU Blue Card Directive of 2021, showcasing Sweden’s commitment to addressing labour shortages and enhancing the mobility of skilled talent within the European Union.

Key Updates to the EU Blue Card Rules

From 2025, Sweden will implement the following major changes:

1. Lower Minimum Salary Threshold
The minimum salary required to qualify for an EU Blue Card will drop to 1.25 times the national average salary, reduced from the previous 1.5 times. This adjustment makes it more affordable for employers to hire skilled foreign professionals.

2. Shorter Job Offer Duration
Applicants will only need an employment contract of six months, instead of the current requirement of 12 months. This change ensures quicker access for skilled workers to Sweden’s job market.

3. Expanded Eligibility Criteria
Professionals with relevant work experience, even without formal educational qualifications, may qualify. Current criteria emphasize formal education, but this expansion opens doors for a broader range of skilled workers.

4. Simplified In-Country Applications
Individuals holding residence permits for study and research, or those who previously held an EU Blue Card in another EU member state for at least 12 months can now apply without leaving Sweden.

This adjustment reduces costs and bureaucratic hurdles, making the transition smoother for applicants already in the country.

5. Flexible Job Change Rules
EU Blue Card holders can switch jobs by simply notifying Swedish authorities, eliminating the need for a formal job change application. This ensures greater career flexibility for cardholders.

Faster Processing Time
Apart from the above-mentioned changes, recently Sweden has also reduced the processing time for EU Blue Card applications to 30 days, down from the current 90 days. This faster timeline reflects the government’s commitment to making the process more efficient and accessible.

Impact on Employers and Workers
The revised rules are expected to:

Expand the talent pool: Employers can attract and hire highly skilled professionals from a broader range of applicants, addressing labour shortages across industries.

Reduce costs and complexity: The ability to hire in-country talent and streamlined processes lower administrative burdens.

Enhance retention: Flexible job-change rules encourage EU Blue Card holders to remain in Sweden, benefiting employers with lower turnover rates.

What Does This Mean for You?
If you are a highly skilled professional considering working in Sweden, these upcoming changes present a significant opportunity.

Start Planning: Begin researching the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the updated EU Blue Card program.

Explore Job Opportunities: Begin your job search and connect with potential employers in Sweden.

A Step Toward Greater Talent Mobility

Sweden’s revised EU Blue Card rules mark a pivotal step in aligning with the 2021 EU Blue Card Directive. These changes not only address Sweden’s labour market needs but also strengthen the country’s position as a hub for global talent.

Other EU countries are expected to follow suit in implementing similar updates throughout 2025.

Source: https://travelobiz.com/sweden-eases-eu-blue-card-rules-lower-salary-job-requirements/