“Sweden can’t wait for talent”

For Sweden to be a leader of innovation and a hub of excellence in multiple any sectors, we need to take concrete steps to actively attract and retain top international talent. In this opinion piece, Minister for Migration Johan Forssell and the business council appointed by the minister list nine measures to strengthen Sweden as a top destination for talent. 

For a long time, the debate has had a one-sided focus on asylum related migration. We want to broaden that perspective and shift focus from low-skilled to high-skilled labour migration. Because immigration is also about Sweden’s competitiveness. It is about people who want to work, invest and build a future in our country.

Sweden is well-positioned to achieve this. Stockholm is already one of the strongest tech clusters in the world, with the most unicorns per capita in Europe. We have world-leading companies with talent contributions from all over the world. Inflation is on its way down and Sweden has the lowest tax burden since 1975. At the same time, there is a skills shortage in certain sectors. 

Therefore, to take the next step, we are highlighting nine measures that will strengthen our ability to position Sweden as a top destination for talent. 

1. Fast track for highly qualified labour migrants and researchers

On behalf of the Government, the Swedish Migration Agency has developed a new model for examining work permits that fast tracks applications from skilled labour migrants.This is producing results. The processing time for complete applications has dropped from more than 100 to an average of 18 days. At the same time, our competitor countries are also improving, which means that efforts on fast tracks must be intensified.

2. Easier to change jobs

Today, people who are promoted or who change jobs have to apply for a new work permit. The Government Offices is now considering proposals to change this, so that the link between a work permit and a specific employer is removed. A labour migrant who changes jobs during their work permit will instead be able to report it to the Swedish Migration Agency and start their new job immediately. 

3. Longer permits for probationary employment

Today, people on probationary employment are granted a work permit valid for six months. Then, they have to apply for an extension. The proposal now under consideration at the Government Offices is that work permits can instead be granted “at least for the period of employment”, which gives the Swedish Migration Agency the option to grant longer work permits.

4. Improved services to employers 

Good service to employers is crucial. The Government will task the Swedish Migration Agency with refining their service levels. It is about information and assistance, both before and during the application process, and also about developing the digital tool used by applicants and employers. 

5. Digital passport controls for employees and students

Previously, an applicant had to go to an embassy to show their original passport. The Swedish Migration Agency, together with FrejaID, have introduced the possibility of conducting a digital passport control instead. This means an improved and simplified process and, according to the Swedish Migration Agency, has saved the equivalent of 86 trips around the world during the first five months of the pilot project.

6. Improving the process for researchers and doctoral students

The Government Offices is preparing legislative changes that include improved opportunities to apply for a permanent residence permit and an extended permit period for work applications after completing research or doctoral studies.

7. Common national approach

For Sweden to be able to position itself as a destination for top talent, a common approach is required. The Government has therefore started the long-term inter-agency initiative ‘Work in Sweden’. The aim is to make the government agencies’ efforts better coordinated, more predictable and more efficient overall.

8. Brand Sweden 

Brand Sweden needs to be promoted. The Swedish Institute has therefore been tasked by the Government with developing a strategy for a stronger and more positive image of Sweden abroad. It is about promoting both innovation and quality of life.

9. The business sector as a partner

Politics and the business sector need to have a close dialogue. The Government will therefore regularly conduct talent advisory forums with relevant actors. This can help to ensure that reforms meet the needs of businesses.

Highly qualified international employees are a strategic asset that contributes knowledge, innovation and tax revenues. It is an opportunity for both our growth and competitiveness.

Minister for Migration Johan Forssell, 
MajBritt Arfert, formerly Ericsson
Katarina Berg, HR Manager On
Ellinor Johansson, HR Manager Embracer
Fredrik Hillelson, Founder and CEO Novare Human Kapital
Masih Yazdi, formerly SEB