Early in 2024, Sweden made great progress in luring international talent. 11,760 work permits were granted to foreign nationals by the Swedish Migration Agency between January and May. Compared to the same period in 2023, when 8,180 permits were given, this represents a noteworthy increase of 30%.

Key Trends and Occupations

Workers from China, Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, India, and China received work permits most frequently during this time. The majority of licenses were granted for jobs requiring advanced university competency (4,667) and a university degree or its equivalent (1,256 seats).

Interestingly, a sizable number of licenses were also granted for jobs in manufacturing, sales, care, service, and building.

Statistics confirm that, as of early 2024, work remained the dominant factor in residence permit approvals, which is consistent with Sweden's continuous labour market demands. According to the 2023 EURES report, there are shortages in 39 different industries, including healthcare and education. These conclusions are consistent with what the report found.

Improved Processing Times and Future Plans

Beginning in 2024, the Swedish Migration Agency implemented a new processing system designed to shorten wait periods for highly skilled professionals. Because of this approach, the average processing time for cases that have been settled has dropped to less than 30 days.

To improve efficiency and increase Sweden's competitiveness, officials are working to reduce the processing timeframes for all work permit applications to less than four months.

Sweden issued 20,823 work permits in total in 2023, with the most common jobs being planters and berry pickers. IT architects, system developers, test managers, engineering technicians, civil engineers, and food preparers are among the other professions with significant growth.

This surge in foreign labour brought about by more work permits is evidence of Sweden's proactive efforts to address the labour shortage and promote economic growth in important industries.

The nation is still focused on addressing changing labour needs while preserving its competitive edge in the international market, even as it modifies its immigration laws and simplifies procedures.

FAQS

Which jobs in Sweden required a work permit the most in 2023?

In 2023, the following jobs had the highest frequency of work permits: IT architects, system developers, test managers, berry pickers and planters, engineering technicians, civil engineers, and food preparers.

What steps is Sweden taking to solve the lack of workers?

To combat labour shortages, Sweden is increasing the number of work licenses it issues to foreign nationals, expediting the permit application procedure, and emphasizing the recruitment of qualified individuals into in-demand professions.

In what ways do immigrant labourers bolster Sweden's competitiveness?

By filling important employment gaps, promoting economic growth, and providing a variety of skills and expertise to the labour market, foreign workers help Sweden remain competitive.