Sweden announces changes in processing time for the EU Blue Card.
Sweden has recently declared a significant reduction in the processing duration for the EU Blue Card, which serves as a work and residence permit for highly skilled professionals. This initiative is designed to attract exceptional talent to Sweden, addressing skill shortages in sectors such as engineering, information technology, and healthcare, as reported by various media outlets.
With the implementation of the new regulations, the processing time for the EU Blue Card has been decreased from 90 days to merely 30 days for qualified applicants. This revised timeline also extends to Intra-Corporate Transferee Permits and permits for researchers, facilitating a quicker integration of these individuals into the Swedish labor market.
What is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a specialized permit designed for non-EU nationals, providing skilled professionals with a simplified pathway to work and reside in most EU member states, with the exception of Denmark and Ireland. It focuses on sectors experiencing skill shortages and offers advantages for both employees and employers.
Key aspects of the EU Blue Card include:
- Eligibility: Requires a job offer that meets national salary standards and a recognized degree or relevant professional experience.
- Duration: Generally issued for a period of 1 to 4 years, corresponding with the employment contract.
- Mobility: Holders are permitted to work in other EU countries under specific conditions.
- Path to residency: It can lead to permanent residency after fulfilling a designated period.
Cost of the EU Blue Card:
The application fee for the EU Blue Card varies by country, with Sweden charging €170. Below is a summary of costs in other countries:
- Germany: €100–€140 (approximately Rs 9,069-12,697)
- France: €225
- Netherlands: €320
- Sweden: €170
The shortened processing timeframe applies to complete applications.
Sweden’s accelerated application processing will be advantageous for both foreign workers and Swedish enterprises. However, this expedited procedure is applicable solely to applications that are complete and accurate. Swedish migration authorities have clarified that “incomplete applications may still require up to four months for processing.”
The authorities further noted that applicants in regulated professions might experience extended processing times due to Sweden’s four-tier assessment system, which necessitates additional qualifications.
Labor shortages in Sweden:
In response to labor shortages, Sweden aims to streamline processing times to facilitate the entry of foreign workers into sectors experiencing significant demand. Swedish employers have expressed their support for this initiative, recognizing its potential to alleviate workforce shortages in various industries.
Additionally, Sweden is taking further measures to attract skilled professionals by contemplating a reduction in the salary threshold for the EU Blue Card. In August, Maria Malmer Stenergard, Sweden’s Minister of Migration, suggested lowering the required monthly salary by €866 to enhance accessibility for foreign workers.
Sweden is not the only country adjusting its EU Blue Card criteria; Estonia, for instance, eased its requirements in April, allowing applicants with five years of professional experience to qualify without the need for educational documentation.
