Fancy a move- is it time to leave Spain? Due to massive labour shortages Sweden is calling!
Job Market Overview in Sweden: Q2 Statistics
In the second quarter of this year, Sweden recorded 106,565 job vacancies across all regions, as reported by Statista. Despite a decrease compared to the previous quarter and the same period last year, Sweden is grappling with a labour shortage in various sectors, according to SchengenVisaInfo.com.
Sectors Facing Worker Shortages
The European Labour Authority (EURES) highlights sectors facing worker shortages, including healthcare, education, IT, engineering, construction, skilled trades, manufacturing, and machine operations. Both private and public employers in Sweden encountered hiring difficulties last year, with 41% of private employers and 60% of public employers experiencing a skills shortage in the autumn of 2022.
In-Demand Highly Skilled Professions
Highly skilled workers are particularly in demand in healthcare, education, IT, engineering, construction, and law enforcement. Occupations such as midwives, civil engineers, system analysts, software developers, police officers, nursing assistants, specialist nurses, doctors, primary school teachers, and special needs teachers are among the most sought-after.
Occupations with Skill Shortages at Various Levels
Other skill levels also face shortages in construction, skilled trades, manufacturing, machine operations, agriculture, transportation, and healthcare. Occupations including healthcare assistants, mobile farm and forestry plant operators, bus and tram drivers, plumbers, agricultural and industrial machinery mechanics, manufacturing machine operators, construction workers, carpenters, joiners, motor vehicle mechanics, and welders are in high demand.
Opportunities for International Workers
Individuals from abroad in these specified occupations may have a greater chance of securing a Swedish work visa.
Occupations with High Competition and Unemployment
Conversely, occupations with high competition include bankers, real estate agents, photographers, graphic designers, journalists, shop assistants, receptionists, telephone operators, and caretakers, leading to higher unemployment rates in these groups.
Geographical Distribution of Job Openings
Geographically, job openings are concentrated in Stockholm, with West Sweden following as the second-highest region, while Central Norrland has the lowest recorded number of job openings.
Visa Requirements for Working in Sweden
Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not require a work visa to work in Sweden. However, individuals from other countries must apply for a work visa, requiring a job offer/contract, a minimum offered salary of €1220 per month, and employer-provided insurance covering health, life, employment, and pension.
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The Swedish government has published a report on its plans to implement new International Recruitment Units to improve the work permit application process. Key topics covered in the report include:
- A new tiered application category system based on the applicant’s profession and educational background, instead of the current Fast Track scheme;
- Elimination of the Fast Track scheme due to its inefficiency; and
- Update – November 28, 2023: Companies must have been registered in Sweden for at least 12 months for their employees to be eligible for Category A processing.
The policies are likely to enter into force by the end of 2023 or early 2024.
The Swedish government has published a report on its plans to implement new International Recruitment Units to improve the work permit application process, which has seen significant processing delays and backlogs.
Sweden is a country known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cities. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Sweden:
- Stockholm: The capital city is spread across 14 islands and offers a mix of modernity and history. Key attractions include the historic Gamla Stan (Old Town), the Royal Palace, and the Vasa Museum, which houses a well-preserved 17th-century warship.
- Gothenburg: This city on the west coast is known for its charming canals, parks, and the Liseberg amusement park. The Universeum Science Center and the Gothenburg Museum of Art are also popular attractions.
- Malmö: Located in the south of Sweden, Malmö is known for its modern architecture, including the Turning Torso skyscraper. The city also features the historic Malmö Castle and beautiful parks like Kungsparken.
- Kiruna and the Icehotel: Kiruna, in the far north of Sweden, is famous for the Icehotel, a unique accommodation made entirely of ice and snow. Visitors can experience the northern lights and explore the stunning Arctic landscapes.
- Swedish Lapland: Beyond Kiruna, Swedish Lapland offers a range of outdoor activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and the chance to see the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter.
- Gotland: This picturesque island in the Baltic Sea is known for its medieval architecture, including the town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Gotland also offers beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
- Uppsala: Home to Sweden’s oldest university, Uppsala is known for its historic cathedral, Uppsala Domkyrka, and the Gustavianum museum. The city also has beautiful botanical gardens and a charming old town.
- Drottningholm Palace: Located on an island near Stockholm, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the private residence of the Swedish royal family. The palace and its gardens are open to the public.
- Göta Canal: This historic canal stretches across Sweden, connecting Gothenburg on the west coast to Söderköping on the east coast. Visitors can take boat trips along the canal and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
- Abisko National Park: In the far north of Sweden, Abisko National Park is renowned for its pristine wilderness, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness the northern lights. The park is also home to the famous Abisko Sky Station for aurora viewing.
These attractions showcase Sweden’s diverse offerings, from modern cities to historic sites and breathtaking natural wonders.
