Sweden Issues 35% Fewer Work Permits to Foreign Nationals Over the Past Three Years

Sweden Issues 35% Fewer Work Permits to Foreign Nationals Over the Past Three Years

Key Points

  1. Sweden has seen a decline in residence permits for employment purposes between 2022 and 2024.
  2. Despite ongoing labor shortages, the country issued 27,009 work permits in 2024, marking a significant decrease.
  3. Permits for researchers and job seekers, however, have risen during this period.

Decline in Work Permits Amid Labor Shortages

Sweden has experienced a steady decline in the number of residence permits granted for employment purposes, with a 35% drop from 41,396 permits in 2022 to 27,009 in 2024, according to the Swedish Migration Agency. This decrease contrasts with labor shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare.

Increase in Permits for Researchers and Job Seekers

While overall work permits have dropped, the number of residence permits issued to researchers has steadily increased. Between 2022 and 2024, a total of 3,897 permits were granted to researchers, rising nearly 30% from 1,121 in 2022 to 1,451 in 2024.

Similarly, permits for job seekers have surged significantly. In 2022, only 48 permits were granted, but this figure grew to 183 in 2023 and 253 in 2024—nearly a fivefold increase over three years.

Fluctuations in International Exchange Permits

Permits issued for international exchanges, such as youth programs, have shown mixed trends. While 1,298 permits were granted in 2022, the number dropped to 1,119 in 2023 before rebounding to 1,337 in 2024. Conversely, permits for volunteers slightly decreased, dropping from 15 in 2022 to 12 in 2024.

Significant Drop in Work Permits for Various Categories

Sweden has reduced permits for several employment categories:

  • General Workers: Permits dropped from 24,117 in 2022 to 13,427 in 2024, reflecting a 44.3% decline.
  • Self-Employed: In 2024, only 107 permits were issued, 33.1% fewer than the 160 granted in 2022.
  • Athletes and Coaches: Permits for professional athletes and coaches decreased from 520 in 2022 to 415 in 2024.

This declining trend raises questions about Sweden's approach to addressing labor shortages while fostering innovation and research through increased opportunities for researchers and job seekers.

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