Sweden Immigration: How Skilled Indians Can Get Higher Pay and EU Job Access
By Surbhi Gloria Singh — New Delhi
5 min read | Last Updated: Oct 24, 2024 | 1:03 PM IST
Sweden plans to introduce the European Union’s (EU) updated Blue Card Directive, which lowers the salary threshold and expands eligibility for more workers. The changes, expected to take effect from January 1, 2025, could open up new opportunities for Indian professionals.
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed to attract highly skilled professionals to EU countries (excluding Denmark and Ireland). It targets sectors facing skill shortages, such as engineering, IT, and healthcare.
On September 25, 2024, Sweden presented a bill in Parliament aimed at attracting and retaining highly skilled workers — part of its broader strategy to boost global competitiveness.
“Sweden must be an attractive country for highly qualified workers. Employers in these sectors need to know they can get the right talent on time,” said Migration Minister Johan Andersson.
Why This Matters for Indians
Sweden is home to one of the largest Indian communities in Europe, and many Indians work in IT, engineering, and healthcare sectors.
Lokesh Nigam, co-founder and director of Kognoz, believes that Sweden’s potential adoption of the Blue Card Directive could open doors for Indian job seekers.
“Sectors such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance are likely to benefit, given the persistent demand for skilled workers,” Nigam explained.
Varun Singh, Managing Director of XIPHIAS Immigration, added:
“Sweden, along with other European nations, offers favourable visa options for professionals with expertise in technology and engineering.”
These changes form part of a broader EU initiative to attract global talent. Nigam noted that simplified visa procedures and competitive salaries make Sweden one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for highly skilled professionals.
According to Eurostat, Sweden saw a 23% increase in job vacancies in 2023, particularly in IT and engineering, driving up sectoral wages.
“Sweden provides a high standard of living, excellent work-life balance, and access to job opportunities across the EU. It’s a strategic location for professionals seeking international exposure,” Singh said.
Advantages for Indian Workers
For Indian professionals considering a move to Sweden, the country offers several compelling advantages:
- High salaries in IT, healthcare, and engineering
- Strong social benefits and work-life balance
- Access to EU-wide job opportunities
- High quality of life and safety standards
Sweden ranks second in the world for quality of life, according to the 2024 Best Countries ranking by US News & World Report.
It also ranks 6th overall, performing strongly across metrics such as:
- Affordability
- Good job market
- Economic stability
- Family-friendly environment
- Income equality
- Political stability
- Safety
- Public education and healthcare quality
Flip Side of the Coin
However, the move isn’t without its challenges.
Lokesh Nigam cautioned that high living costs and the need to learn Swedish for long-term career growth could be hurdles.
“For those willing to adapt, Sweden offers a range of benefits that make it a compelling choice for professionals looking to expand their careers in Europe,” Nigam said.
Varun Singh agreed, noting:
“Professionals should be prepared for Sweden’s high cost of living, which is significantly higher than in India.”
According to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Sweden is 184% higher than in India, with rent averaging 288% higher.
Cost of Living in Sweden
Key figures (approximate):
- Family of four estimated monthly costs: ₹2,98,837.30 (without rent)
- Single person estimated monthly costs: ₹81,734 (without rent)
- Average rent for 1-bedroom city apartment: ₹79,507
- Average monthly salary (after tax): ₹2,41,468
Indian Migration Trends
Despite the opportunities, a growing number of Indians have left Sweden in 2024.
Between January and June 2024, 2,837 Indians departed the country — a 171% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Nevertheless, Sweden remains a top destination for Indian professionals, ranking second in new arrivals after Ukraine.
Key Points of the EU Blue Card
- Eligibility: Requires a job offer with a salary meeting national thresholds and a higher education degree or equivalent experience.
- Duration: Typically valid for 1–4 years, depending on the employment contract.
- Mobility: Holders can move and work in other EU countries after meeting specific conditions.
- Path to Residency: May lead to permanent residency after a few years.
Application Costs (by country):
- Germany: €100–€140 (₹9,000–₹12,700)
- France: €225
- Netherlands: €320
- Sweden: €170
