Sweden lowers EU Blue Card barriers to attract global talent in 2025

The government plans to lower the minimum salary requirement, broaden who can apply, and make it easier for Blue Card holders to switch jobs.

These changes are intended to position Sweden as a competitive destination for global talent amidst increasing international demand for specialized professionals.

According to Last Stop Booking, the proposed amendments to the EU Blue Card could come into effect as early as January 1st, 2025, contingent upon legislative approval. The changes involve lowering the minimum salary requirement to SEK 49,875 per month, broadening eligibility to include a wider range of skilled workers, and easing transitions between residence permits and the EU Blue Card.

If implemented, these adjustments would signify one of the most comprehensive reforms to Sweden’s approach in attracting non-EU talent.

Under the revised EU Blue Card regulations, the monthly salary requirement for applicants would be lowered from the current standard of 1.5 times the Swedish national average to 1.25 times the average, reports inform.

This adjustment aims to make the EU Blue Card more accessible to a larger pool of qualified workers, potentially expanding Sweden’s reach in attracting specialized professionals from diverse fields.

The updated criteria would also welcome professionals from a broader range of industries. Previously, EU Blue Card eligibility was limited to select specialized roles, but the changes will now extend access to skilled workers across various sectors. These modifications aim to diversify the skill sets of professionals entering Sweden and address labor shortages in critical sectors.

The proposed policy would allow professionals who hold the EU Blue Card to change jobs in Sweden without reapplying for a new Blue Card. Currently, Blue Card holders who switch employers or positions are required to undergo a reapplication process, which can lead to delays and uncertainty.

According to reports, the government’s proposal also shortens the minimum employment contract period required for EU Blue Card applicants. Previously, applicants needed a contract lasting over six months to qualify; the new rule,  as stated, would ease this to a six-month threshold, potentially making Sweden more attractive to international professionals seeking shorter-term work engagements.

This provision aligns with the goal of meeting Sweden’s shifting labour market needs by facilitating entry for skilled professionals, including those in fields that may require project-based or shorter employment periods.

The EU Blue Card by definition offers numerous advantages for eligible professionals, including work and residence rights within Sweden and other participating EU countries.

The revised EU Blue Card framework aims to make Sweden a leading destination for international talent. As Last Stop Booking highlights, these changes would not only support the EU’s labour needs but also establish a streamlined pathway for skilled professionals seeking careers within the EU, enhancing Sweden’s appeal in the global talent market.