As of January 1, 2025, Sweden has rolled out significant changes to its EU Blue Card program, aiming to attract top global talent while simplifying the process for skilled professionals. These reforms are part of Sweden’s ongoing strategy to remain competitive in the global job market and make the country a top destination for highly qualified workers.
If you’re wondering what the EU Blue Card is, how it can benefit you, and whether you can work in other EU countries like Spain with it, this article is for you. Here’s everything you need to know about Sweden’s revamped EU Blue Card program for 2025.
What Is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit specifically designed for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. It provides a streamlined pathway to live and work in EU countries, with benefits such as enhanced mobility across the EU, favorable working conditions, and opportunities for family reunification.
One of its standout features is the ability to work in multiple EU countries after meeting specific requirements. For instance, after residing in Sweden with an EU Blue Card for at least 18 months, you can move to another EU country, like Spain, for a new job.
This blog post focuses on the latest changes in Sweden’s EU Blue Card system and their implications for 2025 applicants.
New Changes to Sweden’s EU Blue Card in January 2025
The Swedish government has introduced several updates to the EU Blue Card regulations to make the process easier and more appealing for skilled professionals. Here are the highlights:
- Reduced Employment Contract Duration
The required length of the employment contract has been shortened from 12 months to 6 months, offering greater flexibility for professionals and employers alike. - Lower Salary Threshold
The salary requirement has been lowered from 1.5 times to 1.25 times the average gross annual salary in Sweden. This adjustment makes the program accessible to a broader range of skilled workers. - Expanded Eligibility Criteria
Professionals with substantial work experience in their field can now qualify for the Blue Card, even if they lack formal academic qualifications. - Simplified Job Change Process
EU Blue Card holders in Sweden can now change jobs or professions without applying for a new card. A simple notification to the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) suffices. - Enhanced EU Mobility
EU Blue Card holders from other EU countries can now apply for a Swedish Blue Card through a streamlined process if they have held their card for at least 12 months. Additionally, Blue Card holders from other EU states can work in Sweden for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Impact on Applications in 2025
The changes are expected to benefit both applicants and employers by reducing barriers and simplifying the process. Here’s how they will impact applications:
- More Accessibility: The lower salary threshold and shorter employment contract requirements will open doors to a larger pool of professionals.
- Easier Mobility: The ability to transition from other residence permits to the Blue Card without leaving Sweden is a game-changer for existing residents.
- Employer Benefits: Employers can now access a larger, more diverse talent pool without facing lengthy administrative delays.
Can You Work in Spain with a Swedish EU Blue Card?
Yes! The EU Blue Card allows you to work in other EU countries, including Spain, after meeting certain requirements. For instance, if you’ve held a Blue Card in Sweden for at least 18 months, you can move to Spain for a highly qualified job. However, you’ll need to apply for a Blue Card in Spain within one month of your arrival.
References
- https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/About-the-Migration-Agency/Current-topics/News-archive/News-archive-2024/2024-12-13-Decision-on-the-new-Blue-Card-Directive.html
- https://www.regeringen.se/rattsliga-dokument/proposition/2024/09/prop.-20242518.
