Sweden’s government proposes new rules on residence permits for research and studies in higher education

Mundus has written many times about the paradox of Sweden’s treatment of internationals who want to work here. On the one hand, Sweden desperately needs migrants to fill jobs demanded by Sweden’s ageing population and strong economy.  On the other hand, it has treated many such migrants poorly – booting them out of the country without much reason or logic. This issue was elevated in political priority under the January Agreement, and now the government has proposed new rules on residence permits for research and studies in higher education as well as on residence permits to apply for work or start business activities in Sweden after completing research or studies. The rules to come into force in January 2020  will affect non-EU internationals, targeting highly-educated individuals and also au pairs.

In the July edition of the Monthly Policy Review we analyse why Sweden needs the extra labour, and then look at the plight of those forced to reapply for a visa. Interested internationals can email us for a copy.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay