Sweden is currently experiencing significant labour shortages, especially in critical sectors such as education and healthcare.
This shortage has not only put a strain on the country’s economy but has also highlighted the urgent need for foreign workers to fill the gaps.
According to the Swedish Labour Minister, Johan Pehrson, some regions are “crying out for staff,” illustrating the severity of the situation, Schengen.News reports.
The 2023 EURES report on shortages and surpluses revealed that Sweden is facing labour shortages in nearly 40 occupations.
The most impacted sectors include healthcare, education, security, machinery repair, and maintenance.
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Specific occupations experiencing shortages include:
Healthcare: Nursing professionals, midwifery professionals, generalist/specialist medical practitioners, dentists, health professionals not elsewhere classified, medical secretaries, and medical and pathology laboratory technicians.
Education: Special needs teachers, early childhood educators, and primary school teachers.
Security: Security guards and police inspectors/detectives.
Machinery Repair and Maintenance: Motor vehicle mechanics and repairers, mechanical engineering technicians, and incinerator and water treatment plant operators.
Other: Bus and tram drivers, butchers, fishmongers and related food preparers, home-based personal care workers, psychologists, systems analysts, environmental and occupational health, and hygiene professionals.
The EURES list includes another 19 shortage occupations and 95 surpluses as well.
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The labour shortage has led to a significant increase in the number of work permits issued to foreign workers.
The Swedish Migration Agency reported that between January and May 2024, 11,760 work permits were granted, marking a 30% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Employment emerged as the most common reason for granting residence permits during this period.
Most of these work permits were granted for roles requiring in-depth university competence and those necessitating university education or equivalent.
Additionally, many permits were issued for occupations related to service, care, sales, construction, and manufacturing.
The Migration Agency has also reduced the average waiting time for highly qualified workers to under 30 days, facilitating quicker entry for essential personnel.
For foreigners looking to move and work in Sweden, this labour shortage presents a significant opportunity.
Individuals with skills in the most in-demand occupations have a higher chance of securing employment and a work visa in Sweden.
The EURES report shows that foreigners belonging to any of these high-demand job categories may benefit from the increased issuance of work permits.
Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not require a work visa to work in Sweden.
However, individuals from other countries must apply for a work visa. To obtain a Sweden work visa, applicants must have a job offer or contract, with the offered salary being at least €1220 (SEK 13,000) per month.
Additionally, the employer must provide insurance covering health, life, employment, and pension.
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