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Sweden has revamped its EU Blue Card system, making it easier for skilled professionals to work and settle in the country. With lower salary thresholds, shorter contract requirements, and simplified job transitions, Sweden is now one of the most accessible EU destinations for global talent.
Sweden is making bold moves to attract global talent, streamlining its EU Blue Card work visa requirements starting April 1, 2025. With these changes, the country is set to become one of the most accessible destinations for skilled professionals looking to work in Europe.
What Is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is Europe’s answer to the U.S. Green Card, designed to attract highly qualified non-EU professionals. This work and residence permit allows skilled workers to live and work in Sweden while also offering the flexibility to move across EU member states like Germany, France, and Spain after a set period.
For those who have spent 18 months in Sweden on a Blue Card, relocating to another EU country for a new job is now a seamless process—no need to start over.
Key Changes to Sweden’s EU Blue Card in 2025
Sweden’s new policies simplify and expand access to the EU Blue Card. Here’s what’s changing from January 1, 2025:
1. Shorter Job Contracts Accepted
Professionals with contracts as short as six months can now qualify, making it easier for those on probation or temporary projects to obtain an EU Blue Card.
• Old Rule: Minimum 12-month employment contract required.
• New Rule: Contracts of just 6 months now qualify, making it easier for professionals on probation or short-term projects.
2. Lower Salary Requirements
The salary threshold is reduced to 1.25 times the average salary, allowing more mid-level professionals to apply and increasing opportunities across various industries.
• Old Rule: Applicants needed a salary 1.5 times Sweden’s average salary.
• New Rule: The threshold is reduced to 1.25 times the average salary, making the visa accessible to mid-level professionals.
3. No Degree? No Problem
Sweden now accepts professional experience in place of academic qualifications, enabling skilled workers without formal degrees to qualify for the EU Blue Card. If you have proven skills, you can apply even without a formal degree.
• Formal academic degrees are no longer mandatory.
• Extensive professional experience is now recognized as a valid qualification, opening doors for skilled individuals without traditional degrees.
4. Easier Job Changes
Blue Card holders can switch employers or roles without reapplying; a simple notification to the Migration Agency is now sufficient.
• Old Rule: Blue Card holders needed a new application to switch employers.
• New Rule: You can now change jobs or roles within Sweden by simply notifying the Migration Agency—no reapplication required.
5. Enhanced EU Mobility
Professionals with an EU Blue Card from another country can transition to a Swedish Blue Card more easily and even work in Sweden for up to 90 days without switching cards.
• If you hold a Blue Card from another EU country, switching to a Swedish Blue Card is now easier after just 12 months.
• Even without switching, you can now work in Sweden for up to 90 days while holding another EU Blue Card.
Why This Matters for Global Talent
Sweden’s move makes it one of the most attractive EU countries for skilled immigration, especially in fields like IT, AI, healthcare, engineering, and green energy.
• More professionals qualify due to lower salary thresholds and flexible contract terms.
• Easier career transitions with faster job switching and fewer bureaucratic hurdles.
• Businesses gain faster access to international talent, improving Sweden’s competitiveness.
Can You Work in Spain with a Swedish Blue Card?
Yes! If you’ve held a Swedish Blue Card for at least 18 months, you can relocate to Spain for a highly qualified job. However, you must apply for a Spanish Blue Card within one month of arrival.
Key Takeaways: Sweden’s 2025 EU Blue Card Updates
• Shorter Contracts: Minimum job contract reduced from 12 months to 6 months.
• Lower Salary Threshold: Now 1.25x the national average instead of 1.5x.
• No Degree Needed: Professional experience can replace academic qualifications.
• Easier Job Switching: Simply notify the Migration Agency—no reapplication required.
• Better EU Mobility: Work in Sweden for up to 90 days with another EU Blue Card.
Final Thoughts
Sweden’s revamped EU Blue Card policy makes it one of the easiest places for skilled workers to gain European work rights. With lower entry barriers, increased mobility, and streamlined applications, professionals worldwide now have a better chance of making Sweden their gateway to Europe.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/work-in-sweden-eu-blue-card-2025-updates/
