Sweden Reduces EU Blue Card Processing Time from 90 Days to 30 Days
Key Highlights
1. Sweden has reduced the EU Blue Card processing time from 90 to 30 days.
2. Processing times have also been shortened for Intra-Corporate Transferee Permits and researchers.
3. Sweden is also planning to lower the salary requirement for EU Blue Card applicants.
In a bid to attract and retain skilled talent, Sweden has accelerated the processing time for the EU Blue Card. The Swedish authorities have announced that highly qualified workers applying for the EU Blue Card can now expect a processing period of just 30 days, down from the previous 90.
The faster processing also applies to applications for Intra-Corporate Transferee Permits and researchers. This streamlined process will benefit foreign professionals and positively impact Sweden’s labor market. However, only applicants with complete and accurate applications will see the reduced processing time, while incomplete applications could still take up to four months.
In addition, the shortened timeline does not apply to roles that require additional assessments under Sweden’s four-tier system.
Sweden’s efforts to support businesses by speeding up processing times are part of broader reforms aimed at easing entry for skilled workers. In line with this, Sweden is working to reduce the EU Blue Card’s salary requirement, a measure anticipated to cut the minimum salary by around €866. Swedish Migration Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard emphasized that this step is crucial for making conditions more favorable for foreign professionals.
Sweden joins other EU nations, like Estonia, in updating Blue Card regulations to draw more qualified professionals. Estonia recently amended its rules, allowing applicants with five years of professional experience, regardless of formal education, to apply for the EU Blue Card.