EU Blue Card (Highly Qualified Employment)
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Maximum 90 days
- Fee
- SEK 2,000
- Validity
- Duration of employment contract plus 3 months, maximum 2 years; renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
EU Blue Card for highly qualified non-EU/EEA workers in Sweden. As of July 2025, minimum salary threshold is SEK 52,000 per month (1.5x average gross salary). Applicant must have higher education equivalent to at least 180 credits or 5 years relevant professional experience. Employment contract must be for at least 6 months. Blue Card holders can move to another EU country after 12 months. Path to permanent residence after meeting residency requirements.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Open to all non-EU/EEA citizens. EU/EEA citizens cannot apply as they have free movement rights.
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Employment
Must have highly qualified employment in Sweden with minimum salary of SEK 52,000/month. Must have higher education (minimum 180 credits/3 years) or at least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
Required status: Highly qualified employment with minimum salary SEK 52,000/month
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Financial
Minimum monthly salary of SEK 52,000 required.
Minimum funds: SEK 52,000 per month
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via Swedish Migration Agency e-service; Amount: SEK 2,000
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Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
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Online application
Employer initiates the application in the Swedish Migration Agency's e-service.
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Document gathering
Gather: passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications (degree certificates or professional experience documentation), and insurance confirmation.
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Fee payment
Pay application fee of SEK 2,000.
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Document submission
Present passport at Swedish embassy/consulate for verification.
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Processing wait
Wait for decision, maximum 90 days processing time.
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Visa collection
Receive EU Blue Card upon approval.