Impact: High
Summary
The fast track scheme for work permit applications in Sweden as we know it will change in the autumn of 2023. The current format has grown too large and is no longer fulfilling its purpose.
The new model will comprise four categories, from A-D, in which all applications will be categorised. The aim is to shorten the assessment period by the Swedish Migration Agency and provide better service for the employers who wish to employ highly skilled personnel.
The Details
The Swedish Migration Agency has, in the appropriation directions of 2023, been instructed by the Swedish Government to improve their way of working in regard to work permit applications for highly skilled personnel wishing to relocate to Sweden.
The current fast track scheme has proven to have some room for improvement. Over the last two years, we have seen longer processing times from the Swedish Migration Agency that are not near what is stated in the fast track agreement.
The first step in this improvement plan to be introduced is to revamp the current fast track scheme and establish specific units within the Swedish Migration Agency who work exclusively with these applications.
So what do we know about this new version of the fast track scheme? The Swedish Migration Agency has informed us that it will comprise four categories, from A-D.
Category A
Work permit applications for highly qualified occupations such as managers, occupations that require advanced academic qualifications and/or academic competence. The Swedish Migration Agency will aim to conclude these applications within 30 days following submission.
Category B
Applications based on specific rules such as EU-Blue Cards, Intra Corporate Transfers (ICT), Researchers, interns but also applications from individuals who have previously applied for asylum and now wish to apply for a work permit. The processing time for EU regulated permits, i.e. EU-Blue Cards and the ICT have a maximum processing time of 90 days.
Category C
Applications for occupations that don’t require academic qualifications, i.e., non-highly qualified occupations in sectors that do not require a particularly high level of case investigation. This category includes, e.g., occupations that constitute an important social benefit, even if they do not meet the criteria for being classified as highly qualified. Applications for major new establishments in growth areas also fall into this category.
Category D
Applications for employment in industries that the Swedish Migration Agency defines as particularly demanding in terms of case investigation. These industries include, e.g. cleaning, construction, personal assistance, and hotel and restaurants.
What this means
Vialto Partners support any changes that may decrease the current processing times of work permit applications. Sweden is in great need of highly skilled personnel and companies need these individuals in order to grow, invest and compete on the international market.
We have noticed the “ambition” in category A to conclude applications within 30 days. While this “ambition” is appreciated, it is still an increase from today’s processing times of 10 days (first time application) and 20 days (for extension applications) under the current fast track scheme set-up. Vialto Partners’ experience on processing times for EU regulated permits is in fact something that we are happy to say the Swedish Migration Agency already adheres to in the majority of the applications. What we are hoping for is a processing time that is predictable and stable so that all parties involved can manage their expectations. Because there is so much consideration and planning involved for the individual who is planning to relocate to Sweden and his/her employer.
The current fast track scheme will be in place until the new model is introduced in full.
How we can help
Vialto Partners Sweden’s immigration team is monitoring changes to the immigration landscape in Sweden closely to give our clients information on current legislation and upcoming changes. We assist clients with advisory and submit work permit applications for our clients.
Contact us
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to Patrik Nyström (patrik.nystroem@vialto.com) or your Vialto Partners point of contact.
Further information on Vialto Partners can be found here: www.vialtopartners.com
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