Work permits

2024-01-31

Navigating the Work Permit Challenge in Sweden

Team Permizon Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

A Critical Look at the Swedish Migration Agency’s New Support System

In the heart of Sweden’s ambitious labor market lies a stark divide, illuminated by the recent initiative of the Swedish Migration Agency. Their new support system, designed to streamline work permit applications for highly qualified individuals, undeniably speeds up the process for some. However, this efficiency casts a shadow over a significant portion of the labor market – industries known for their rigorous scrutiny and, unfortunately, their higher rates of application rejection.

This article aims to shed light on the critical gaps within Sweden’s work permit system, advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the importance of every industry. As we move forward, let’s not forget those who keep the wheels of our economy turning, often in the background, yet always essential.

The Emotional Weight of Work Permit Rejections

2023 was a tough year for work permit applications in Sweden. The staggering statistic that almost 1 out of 3 applications were rejected hits hard, especially knowing that most of these rejections were in industries not benefitting from the new support system. This isn’t just a number; it’s a wave of dreams deferred, opportunities missed, and potential unfulfilled.

The Swedish Migration Agency’s new support system was launched on January 29, 2024, focusing on highly skilled workers. We welcome this progress, acknowledging its potential while also feeling the pulse of countless businesses that still navigate these waters without such support.

The launch of the new support system by the Swedish Migration Agency aligns with our long-held belief: that the key to faster work permit decisions lies in the submission of thorough and accurate applications. This system, geared towards companies hiring highly skilled workers, is a step in the right direction. Yet, its efficiency remains to be tested. While we applaud this progress, we recognize the gap it leaves.

Industries Left in the Cold

Industries such as cleaning, hotel and restaurant services, construction, trade, agriculture, automobile repair, various service sectors, staffing, and personal assistance form the backbone of Sweden’s economy. Yet, these sectors, often flagged for stringent controls due to concerns over sham employment, find themselves on the periphery of the Migration Agency’s new, expedited pathway. This approach not only prolongs their wait but subtly undervalues the essential skills these workers bring to the Swedish table.

A Call for Inclusivity and Fairness

The heart of the issue lies not in the creation of a support system, which in principle is a commendable effort to enhance efficiency. The crux is the systemic oversight that sidelines industries crucial to Sweden’s daily life and economic vitality. By focusing solely on highly educated individuals, the system inadvertently discriminates against sectors that, while perhaps less glamorous, are equally in need of skilled workers from outside the EU/EEA.

The Path Forward

As Sweden continues to navigate the complexities of global labor dynamics, it’s imperative that the system evolves to reflect the diversity of its economic needs. An inclusive, fair, and transparent work permit process is not just an administrative ideal; it’s a testament to Sweden’s commitment to equality and economic resilience. It’s time for a system that encompasses all industries, ensuring that every applicant’s dream of contributing to Sweden’s prosperity is given the consideration it deserves.

Our heart goes out to each one, and our hands are extended to help.

Permizon: A Beacon of Support for All

Amidst this oversight stands Permizon, a steadfast advocate for equality in the application process. Our commitment transcends industry boundaries, offering guidance and support to all companies and applicants. With a focus on preparing thorough and accurate applications, Permizon ensures every industry has a fighting chance for timely and positive work permit decisions. We stand ready to assist those who feel overlooked, championing a more inclusive approach that recognizes the value of every skill set.

Conclusion: Your Ally in the Work Permit Journey

In a world where work permit rejections are all too common, Permizon is more than just a service provider – we’re an ally, an advocate, and a partner. We’re here to help every industry, every company, and every individual facing the challenges of work permit applications in Sweden.

FAQs:

Why are so many work permit applications rejected? Often, rejections are due to incomplete or incorrect applications, especially in industries not covered by the new support system.
How does Permizon address the high rejection rate? By meticulously preparing each application, ensuring it meets all the requirements to significantly reduce the chances of rejection.
Can Permizon help my business if we’re not in a prioritized industry? Absolutely. We specialize in assisting all industries, especially those most affected by work permit rejections.

2023-11-28

Money Back Guarantee – Work Permit in Sweden

Team Permizon Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

Work Permit Application in Sweden

We have the same goal as you: to securing a favorable outcome for your work permit.

Our money-back guarantee stands as a testament to our commitment to your security and the quality of our service.

Let’s break it down.

Money Back Guarantee - Work permit in Sweden

The Application Process

Navigating the Swedish work permit application process is no cakewalk. The Swedish Migration Agency scrutinizes both the employer and applicant, demanding adherence to a myriad of requirements. The complexity of the regulations and the time-consuming nature of the process leave little room for error.

The Risk

Employers shoulder critical responsibilities in meeting various applicant requirements. The Migration Agency delves into the financial health, employee history, tax compliance, and more. This uncertainty makes planning and securing foreign labor in Sweden a tricky endeavor.

Rejections

Nearly 40% of work permit applications face rejection annually (source: Swedish Migration Agency). Misinterpretations and shoddy preparations contribute significantly. We’ve salvaged numerous rejected cases, rectifying errors and turning negative decisions into positive outcomes.

Thorough Analysis

To ensure a robust application, Permizon offers a complimentary pre-assessment. We evaluate the potential success of each case, relying on our extensive experience and daily updates on regulatory changes. If the odds look promising, we take on the case.

Throughout the process, we mirror the parameters scrutinized by the Migration Agency, handling communication with all involved parties. A well-prepared case not only accelerates decisions but also boosts the chances of obtaining a work permit.

Warranty Scope

We don’t promise a government decision but guarantee meticulous application handling, enhancing the chance of approval. If a negative decision results from mishandling or process errors, we refund the money (excluding Migration Agency fees) or assist with an appeal at no extra cost.

Determining Rejection Reasons:

When a case faces rejection, the Migration Agency outlines the reasons in the decision letter sent to the client.

Any questions or ready to delve deeper into securing your work permit?

2023-10-11

New in Sweden? Important Place to Know About

Majid Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

New in Sweden or coming soon to Sweden? Here is a useful place to know about.

Statens Servicecenter

(“The State’s Service Center”).

https://www.statenssc.se/en

These are physical locations in many of Sweden’s cities where several government offices has gathered under the same roof to provide services to the public.

“We provide information from several of the Swedish government agencies in one place. We give you guidance in using digital services and general information in person.”

The five agencies are:

The Swedish Tax Agency
To register as living in Sweden and obtain a Swedish personal identity number
skatteverket.se
The Swedish Public Employment Service
The office matches up job-seekers with employers, and provides information and forecasts about the labour market.
arbetsformedlingen.se
The Swedish Social Insurance Agency
To be registered in the social insurance system.
forsakringskassan.se
The Swedish Pensions Agency
The office that administers and pays out the state pension.
pensionsmyndigheten.se
The Swedish Migration Agency
The authority that considers applications from people who want to take up residence in Sweden, come for a visit, seek protection from persecution or become Swedish citizens.
migrationsverket.se

New in Sweden?

2023-06-20

Work Permit Rejection Rate Almost 40%

Team Permizon Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

Updated: June 20, 2023
Published: March 15, 2023

According to the statistics from the Swedish Migration Agency for January-May 2023, almost 40% of all settled cases have been rejected. These figures apply to new applications (first timers). Many of these rejections could have been avoided. The key word is preparation.

Work permit applications in Sweden, almost 40% rejections.

A well-prepared application significantly increases the chances of a grant. The Swedish Migration Agency looks at a number of different parameters and factors in its review. Shortcomings in providing correct information or the right documentation can be decisive for the decision.

Work permit applications in Sweden, almost 40% rejections.

Let’s break it down:

There are two parties involved into an application for a work permit: the employer and the employee. It is de facto the employee who applies for a work permit and owns the application, but the employee is involved to a high degree and undergoes careful scrutiny by the authority. We drew attention to this in a previous post in detail.

The application process is initiated by the employer, who provides information about the professional service and the conditions of the service (occupation, duties, salary, salary conditions, insurances, etc.). The position must have been advertised according to certain conditions before starting this process. An employment offer is formed with this information and sent to the trade union concerned for an opinion. In the meantime, an employment contract must have been signed by both the employer and the employee. This agreement must also be uploaded during the application process.

A decisive factor in this context is the employing company’s finances and other prerequisites for employing a foreign person on a work permit. A number of industries have higher requirements to submit financial reports that show stable and serious business operations and that they can afford the employment.

When the opinion from the trade union is returned, it is the employee’s turn to fill in their part of the application with information on, among other things, education, work experience, recent travels within the Schengen area and information on any family members who are applying together. ID documents for all must be uploaded and the application fee paid before the final stage of the application.

We have also covered the steps above along with some useful tips in another previous post which is available here.

There are small margins for mistakes and a lot of room for misunderstandings if you only rely on the scant information available on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.

We are happy to help and take care of the entire process, which covers both the employer’s and the employee’s application. We review the company’s finances, background, future prospects and many more parameters.

Welcome to reach out for an unconditional conversation.

We at Permizon offer a free of charge preliminary analysis of your case check all the parameters and a number of other factors that could possibly affect the case.
Feel free to get in touch for an unconditional conversation.

Related posts:

2023-03-02

Work Permit in Sweden – Who Applies and Who is Examined?

Team Permizon Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

In an application for a work permit, it is the employee who applies for a work permit to work in Sweden. But both the employer and the employee are tested. It can probably be argued that the biggest burden lies on the employer. We take a closer look at what this means.

The need for a work permit only arises when a company in Sweden (the employer) offers a person from a third country (countries outside the EU/EEA) employment.

From the point of view of the law, it is the employee who applies for a work permit (applicant), but both the employer and the employee are involved in the process and have certain requirements. Most of the requirements placed on the employee are in fact requirements of the employer who controls and must ensure that they are met.

The Employee

The basic requirements for the employee are:

to have an employment offer/employment agreement with a company in Sweden
to have a valid passport preferably covering the entire permit period

A background check is also carried out on the applicant’s possible old applications for a residence permit in Sweden. If the employee is in Sweden, certain other checks are also carried out, including the applicant’s existing permit and how it has been handled, as well as whether a change of track is relevant or not (for example, from study residence permit to work permit).

The rest basically falls on the employer.

The Employer:

Has the service been advertised correctly, for long enough, does it contain the correct description of the service?
Does the company have the conditions to hire? That is, can the company afford to hire and retain foreign workers? What does the history look like, tax debts, the bailiff, possibly other employees with a work permit, etc.?
Are the salary and salary conditions right? It is based on the applicable collective agreement (regardless of whether the company has a collective agreement or not) or common practice in the industry.
Is there or will the company take out the insurances needed according to the legal requirement? Normally, four types of insurance are required: life insurance, health insurance, occupational injury insurance and occupational pension insurance.

A careful analysis of both the employer’s and the employee’s conditions minimizes the risks of delays and, in the worst case, of rejection.

We at Permizon offer a free of charge preliminary analysis of your case check all the parameters and a number of other factors that could possibly affect the case.
Feel free to get in touch for an unconditional conversation.

2023-02-09

Right to work in Sweden? The responsibility lies with the employer!

Team Permizon Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

The responsibility lies with the employer to check if the person to be hired has a valid work permit in Sweden.

We bring this up periodically because it still seems to be unknown to so many business owners and employers.

Simply put:

👉 Foreign persons (especially people from countries outside the EU) do not automatically have the right to work in Sweden.

👉It is up to the employer to verify this by asking the employee to provide proof of this.

The picture shows the backside of a work and residence permit card in Sweden, stating the person has right to work in Sweden (Får arbeta).

Here it gets even more complicated:

⚠ Just because a person speaks good Swedish, has a social security number (or coordination number), can show a Swedish ID card does not necessarily mean that he or she has the right to work in Sweden.

But what to do then?

➡ Ask to see a valid residence permit card or an LMA card marked AT-UND (exempt from work permit).

➡ The permit card must state that the person is “allowed to work” in Sweden (see picture).

There are other categories of people who are exempt from work permits but it is more rare.

If you feel unsure, contact us at Permizon and we will help you with it.

2022-12-06

To think about after the work permit has been granted!

Team Permizon Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Work permits

This information is addressed to both the employer and the employee after a work permit has been granted. There are things to consider for both parties, both at the start of the employment and after the employment has begun. Certain points in this “checklist” are crucial for future extensions of the work permit.

Failure to comply with these requirements, regardless of who is in breach, may lead to the withdrawal of the work permit and may be followed by expulsion of the employee.

A work permit has been granted. Congratulations!

What to think about now?

At the start of employment

The employer

Tax Agency
Notify the Swedish Tax Agency of the start of employment for a person from outside the EU. You enter the first working day as the start date and can submit the document after the work has started. More information and a form can be found on the Swedish Tax Agency’s website (the link opens in a new page – only available in Swedish): Notification – employment of a foreigner

Insurances
Plan or take out insurance for the employee before starting work (Sickness, Life, Accident/Security, Occupational pension). If you are part of a union (have a collective agreement), consult with the trade union concerned. If you do not have a collective agreement, you can turn to a private insurance company. For some industries, it is enough to take out insurance with Fora. Note that a distinction is made between worker and civil servant in these contexts. Consult with us if you are unsure of what applies.

Employment agreement
An employment agreement should exist and be signed by both parties before employment begins. From June 2022, such an agreement must be included in the application for a work permit to the Swedish Migration Agency.

The employee

Entry
If it concerns a new application, the employee is normally not allowed to enter or be in Sweden until a decision has been made (exceptions exist). If you are already in Sweden, different rules apply depending on your existing permit. Consult with us if you are unsure of what applies.

Insurances
Before you travel to Sweden, you need to take out a temporary sickness and accident insurance which is valid for at least the first few months, in case you need medical care before the population registration is complete. Medical care is extremely expensive in Sweden. Make sure the insurance has adequate coverage. Consult with us if you are unsure of what applies.

National registration (social security number – personnummer)
If you are going to stay in Sweden for a longer period, you and your family should register in the national register. It is through population registration that you are assigned a social security number. You do this at your local Tax Office office. Make sure you bring all the necessary documents with you! Link to more information at the Swedish Tax Agency (link opens in a new page): Civil registration.

“A tax”
In connection with the civil registration, you are registered for employment tax. In Sweden, employees must pay income tax. Income tax is called employment tax and is abbreviated to “A tax”. The employment tax means that the employer deducts tax from the salary to pay social security contributions, which is shown on the salary statement. Further information on taxation.

Home insurance
Even if your employer takes out insurance that applies at the workplace and during trips to and from work, you also need to take out your own insurance. Most needs are covered by home insurance, which is also a requirement of the vast majority of landlords.

Change of employer/occupation
If this is a new application, your work permit normally only applies to one employer and one occupation. If you are going to change industry or employer during the first two years, you need to submit a new application. In the following years, you only need to submit a new application if you intend to change occupation.

During the employment period

It is important to
- follow the salary stated in the employment offer sent to the Swedish Migration Agency. If changes are to be made, please consult with us first,
- that all insurances are taken out,
- that Swedish legislation regarding holidays and working hours etc. followed (LAS),
- If the employer has not followed this, the Swedish Migration Agency can reject a possible extension application.

The salary must be paid on time every month and then paid regularly. It is important that salary specifications exist. The monthly salary must never fall below SEK 13,000.

Wage payment can sometimes be difficult if the employee has not been able to open a bank account yet. Ensure that any solutions to such problems are documented in case of an extension application.

The applicant must start work no later than four (4) months after the date on which the permit takes effect. As an employee, you may also not have more than a total of four months of invalid absence from work during a four-year period. Examples of invalid absence are leave of absence (unpaid vacation) and late-started employment.

If employment is to continue, an extension must be applied for before the current permit expires. Please be there in good time, about 3 months before to have time to prepare the application.

We at Permizon are specialists in work permits and are happy to help both the employer and the employee with the application process from the start until a decision has been made by the Swedish Migration Agency. We act as your representative and take care of the paperwork and contacts with all parties involved.
We offer a free of charge preliminary assessment of your case, no strings attached!

2022-11-11

Why Work Permit? Why Professional Help? Why Us?

Team Permizon Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Permizon, Work permits

Questions are raised from time to time why there are needs for foreign labour in Sweden, why some people need work permit in order to work in Sweden, why it is wise to seek professional help before applying for work permit in Sweden and how we can help out. This article addresses these questions.

Work Permits in Sweden – why(s)?

Why foreign labor?

Some of the fastest growing industries in Sweden are dependent on competencies that are not always available in the country or within the EU. This means that among Swedish companies it has become increasingly common to hire non-European labor.

The underlying reason for this can be easily explained in part by the large retirement of those born in the 40s and 50s, an increased life expectancy of the retired group, as well as failed planning and attractiveness to certain essential educations over the last two decades.

The shortage of skilled labor expands over almost all kinds of industries, of all sizes and across the entire country. The regulations allow the employing company to decide what skills they need to bring to Sweden.

Why is a work permit needed?

To be able to work in Sweden, most people who come from countries outside the EU / EEA must have a valid work permit. The permit must usually be applied for and be granted before traveling into Sweden. However, there are some exceptions to this. For example, foreign students who studied at a university in Sweden and fulfill the requirements and have a job offer may apply from within the country.

Why use professional help?

The process of work permit application in Sweden is time-consuming and troublesome. High demands are placed on the hiring company in the form of requirements for good and stable finances, a tidy background and more. The complexity of cases vary much and there are countless details to consider.

Small mistakes can lead to unnecessary and devastating consequences such as heavy delays or in the worse case, rejection. The regulations have changed many times since they were introduced in 2008 and have progressively become more complicated . An experienced actor knows which parameters to look at and how to prepare the case in the best way.

Why choose us?

With over 10 years of experience in work permit processing we are one the pioneers in this industry. We at Permizon pride ourselves to have helped thousands of satisfied companies in almost all industries and of all sizes across the country of Sweden and beyond.

We follow closely what happens in the industry and keep up with all regulatory changes. Some of our employees have been working as case officers at the Swedish Migration Agency and are familiar with the mindset of the case management “on the other side of the table”.

Read about the “Free of charge pre-assessment” we offer all our customers and why we do it.

Why do we do this?

We believe that by helping the companies in bringing the right competency to Sweden we help the businesses to grow, become stronger and more competitive. We consider this as our contribution to the welfare of the society.

We at Permizon are specialists in work permits and are happy to help both the employer and the employee with the application process from the start until a decision has been made by the Swedish Migration Agency. We act as your representative and take care of the paperwork and contacts with all parties involved.
We offer a free of charge preliminary assessment of your case, no strings attached!

2022-10-14

Sverige stänger dörrarna för utländsk kompetens

Team Permizon All, Arbetskraftsinvandring, Arbetstillstånd, Debatt, Work permits

M, SD, KD och L har precis presenterat resultatet av sina förhandlingar om nytt regeringsunderlag, där omröstning ska ske nu på måndag. Det är som väntat en striktare invandringspolitik på alla håll och kanter. En av punkterna som togs upp var en höjning av lönegolvet (minilöner) för arbetstillstånd. Det gjordes med motiveringen att begränsa möjligheterna att anställa okvalificerad arbetskraft.

Förslaget om lönegolv utgår från medianlönen i Sverige. Den allmänna medianlönen i Sverige för år 2021 ligger på 33 200 kr, specifikt för arbetare inom privat sektor är den 28 700 kr, och specifikt för tjänstemän inom privat sektor är den 41 250. (Källa: SCB)

Om vi höftar, baserat på våra kunder under 2021, så är det någonstans mellan 25 – 50 % av våra ärenden som involverar systemutvecklare, IT-arkitekter, designers, m.m. som inte hade klarat vare sig den generella medianlönen. Det är gissningsvis endast 15 – 20% som hade klarat medianlönen för tjänstemän inom privat sektor.

Vänder vi blicken mot byggbranschen, där det finns ett skrikande behov av utlandsrekrytering, så är det knappt någon som hade klarat den generella medianlönen och ungefär 90% som hade klarat medianlönen för arbetare inom privat sektor. Av arbetarna inom byggbranschen är det få som har en kandidat- eller masterutbildning i bagaget, men mycket av den branschaktiva arbetskraften är på väg att gå i pension och det är ett lågt inflöde av unga svenskfödda inom branschen. Det är alltså ingen tvekan om att arbetskraften behövs i Sverige för att både byggbranschen, och andra branscher som är beroende av byggbranschen, skall fungera.

Tittar vi vidare på restaurangbranschen, där det oftast är kockar men också servitörer och hovmästare som anställs, så är den ingen som klarar den lönetröskel som vi ser i fråga om medianlönen. Det spelar ingen roll vilket mått man väljer.

Ställer man medianlönen i förhållande till vad näringslivet och facken har förhandlat fram, så ligger medianlönen aningen högre eller på liknande nivå vad facken förespråkar inom IT m.m. Tittar man istället på bygg- och restaurangbranschen så ligger medianlönen på cirka 5 – 7 000 kr högre än vad vi hittar i Byggnads- och HRFs avtal för 2021.

Vi ser följande risker:

Nödvändig arbetskraft kommer inte till Sverige. Hela branscher drabbas och många individuella företag behöver lägga ner.
Absolut nödvändig arbetskraft kommer till Sverige på löner som är mycket högre än de som inte behöver arbetstillstånd (detta ser vi redan till viss del).
Väldigt många företag som har utländsk arbetskraft kommer inte att kunna förlänga deras tillstånd. Människor som investerat år av sina liv på att bygga ett liv i Sverige och betala skatt kommer plötsligt att bli utvisade för att företagen inte klarar de nya lönekraven.
Potentiellt mer fusk från branscher som har ett kritiskt behov av utländsk arbetskraft. Det kan t.ex. handla om att man anställer på deltid men att personen de facto arbetar heltid.
Ser man till övriga förslag som samtliga partier redan talat om, som svårare att få permanent uppehållstillstånd, höjda krav för permanent uppehållstillstånd och medborgarskap, ännu svårare att ta med sin familj när man flyttar till Sverige, och så vidare, då kan man verkligen tala om att göra Sverige och svenskt näringsliv en otjänst.

En liten brasklapp till mig själv är att det även finns statistik för ex. restaurangbranschens medianlön och att den ligger på ungefär 24 700 kr. Det är dock inga branschspecifika medianlöner som har diskuterats under valrörelsen utan specifika summor för minimilöner som ligger mellan 28 – 34 000 kr.

Skrivet av Permizon
14 oktober 2022