A new system was implemented at the Swedish Migration Agency on 29th of January 2024 to support highly qualified business immigration.
Faster work permit processing times for highly qualified professionals
The new application system offers employers improved service before submission of work permit applications and faster processing times. Two weeks after implementation, the system is working quite smoothly so far.
Background
The certified application system (also known as the fast-track application system) which was previously in operation, had not functioned properly for some time and a decision was therefore made to withdraw and replace it. The Swedish Migration Agency is currently working on clearing the backlog of applications submitted under the old system.
In addition to improving service for highly qualified immigration, the Swedish government has also decided to focus on a number of other immigration areas such as increasing the repatriation of those without valid permits.
The new model
The Swedish Migration Agency will now prioritize employers that recruit highly skilled workers. Applications are prioritized according to employees’ qualifications and the employer’s industry. All applications for work permits are divided into four categories: A, B, C and D.
Category A, which includes managerial occupations, roles requiring advanced higher education and roles requiring higher education or equivalent, will be handled by new international recruitment units. This category will replace the certification system i.e. fast track applications. Complete applications within category A will be processed within 30 days whilst incomplete/incorrect applications will take up to 4 months. These time frames apply to both first time submissions and visa extension applications.
Category B covers applications for permits in occupations with specific rules such as intra-corporate transferees, EU Blue cards artists, researchers, athletes & coaches, seasonal workers, au-pairs, trainees, volunteers, youth exchange agreements and permits under the EU Blue Card Directive. It also covers applications to start business activities and so called “track changers” from asylum cases. Processing times range from 90 days for researchers and intra-corporate transferees to unregulated time frames for self-employment.
Categories C and D, which cover less qualified work, have processing times of four months. Newly started businesses that have been in operation for less than 12 months and dormant businesses that have been re-activated within the past year will also be subject to longer processing times and more stringent controls.
What does this mean for your company and recruits?
The new model offers enhanced service and faster processing for your highly qualified international recruits. Complete applications for both first-time work permits and for permit extensions will be processed within 30 days. Applications for family members submitted together with the main applicant will also have the same processing times. Requirements for work permit applications are unchanged.
What are the benefits of outsourcing the application process?
The key to faster processing times is ensuring that applications submitted are complete and correct. We save you time and money by ensuring accuracy from the start so that your application will actually get processed within 30 days. We have the expertise to root out any potential mistakes that can cause costly delays and frustration for your company and recruits. We also keep on top of new changes and developments that affect application requirements and processes, so you don’t have to. Risk minimization gives you peace of mind and is more cost effective in the long run. For more information about our immigration services please contact us to book a meeting.
Flexible services
We offer a full range of flexible relocation services. You can combine immigration and other relocation services or opt to manage your own work permit applications and order the relocation service(s) you require individually.
Relocate to Sweden provides expert advice and hands-on help for companies recruiting internationally or transferring staff to Sweden. We help your international recruits with the entire relocation process including immigration, home finding, tax consultancy, registration with Swedish authorities, schools, health care and intercultural training. We also provide private relocation services. Email us at info@relocatetosweden.com or call us on +46 8 361011 if you would like help. You can also read more about our relocation services at www.relocatetosweden.com or follow us on social media for tips and advice
