Sweden has announced an increase in the salary threshold for work permit applicants, impacting both new applications and extensions. This change comes in response to the release of updated median salary figures by Statistics Sweden.
The increase in the salary threshold from 13,000 kronor in October 2023 to 28,480 kronor in June 2024 represents a significant rise of almost 120% in less than a year.
This substantial increase requires applicants to reassess their financial plans and employment negotiations to meet the new criteria.
If the threshold increases again to 35,600 kronor, as proposed, applicants will need to make further adjustments.
This could include negotiating higher salaries or seeking positions that offer compensation in line with the new threshold.
Key Changes to Work Permit Salary Threshold
As of June 18th, 2024, the median salary in Sweden has been updated to 35,600 kronor per month.
Consequently, the new salary threshold for work permit eligibility is now set at 28,480 kronor per month, which represents 80% of the median salary.
This is an increase from the previous threshold of 27,360 kronor per month, based on the earlier median salary of 34,200 kronor.
Looking ahead, the Swedish government plans to further raise the work permit threshold to 100% of the median salary, with a proposed implementation date of June 1st, 2025.
This significant change will include exemptions for certain categories of workers, ensuring that the new rules are equitable and considerate of various employment sectors.
To ease the transition, there will be a one-year grace period for work permit renewals. During this period, the current rule of 80% of the median salary will continue to apply.
This grace period will last until June 1st, 2026, allowing current permit holders ample time to adjust to the new requirements.
Who will the new salary threshold apply to?
The updated salary threshold will apply to all new work permit applications and renewals submitted on or after June 18th, 2024.
Applications that are already in process will not be affected by this change.
It's important to note that the salary threshold is subject to annual updates based on the most recent median salary figures from Statistics Sweden.
Therefore, applicants should be prepared for potential adjustments in the threshold each year ..
In addition to meeting the salary threshold, applicants must ensure that their salaries are in line with industry standards or collective bargaining agreements.
This means that even if the salary meets the threshold, it must also be appropriate for the specific job and sector.
Specifics for Seasonal Workers
Temporary workers in Sweden for 90 days or less on a seasonal work permit are subject to a different set of requirements.
They must meet the old salary requirement of 13,000 kronor per month before tax.
However, their salaries must also align with industry standards or collective bargaining agreements, which may be higher than this minimum.
Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/work/sweden-raises-salary-threshold-for-foreign-workers-by-almost-120-mulls-further-hikes/articleshow/111159016.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
