Sweden: Government inquiry proposes stricter labour immigration regulations

In November 2023 a new requirement for labour migrants from third countries was introduced in Sweden: in order to obtain a work permit, labour migrants must have secured a monthly salary amounting to at least 80% of the gross median salary in Sweden, which is SEK 27 360 (approximately 2 200 EUR).

In the meantime, an investigation commissioned by the previous government into means-tested labour immigration has been ongoing. A year ago the specific assignment of this investigation was changed, with the resulting report - entitled 'New Regulations on Labour Immigration, etc.' -, recently released. The report contains several proposals aimed at tightening conditions for low-skilled labour immigration to Sweden, while concurrently fostering the influx of highly skilled labour migrants. Key proposals here include:

• Focus should be redirected towards skilled labour, with a requirement for wages equivalent to 100% of the median income to be met for individuals seeking residence work permits in Sweden. This corresponds to a gross salary of SEK 34 200 a month (2 800 EUR).
• Exemptions from wage requirements should be made for recent graduates, in order to promote highly skilled labour immigration.
• The option for individuals with failed asylum applications to apply, from within the country, for a residence permit for work or a work permit should be cancelled
• Certain professions should be excluded from eligibility for work permits, such as domestic care workers.

The proposed legislative amendments will take effect on 1 June 2025.

The proposals have been met with some criticism, including from employers who fear the new regulations will make it very difficult to recruit workers from third countries.