Swedish immigration authorities advised that the fast-track work permit processing scheme will close on Dec. 15.

Key Points:

• Employers that are certified operators with the Swedish Migration Agency qualify for the fast-track scheme. This process provides faster processing for work permit applications (10 working days for first applications and 20 working days for renewal applications).
• The last day to apply under the fast-track scheme as a certified operator is Dec. 14. Swedish authorities will process the application backlog between Dec.15 and Jan. 29, 2024.
• The fast-track work permit processing scheme will then be replaced by a new system after Jan. 29, 2024.

BAL Analysis: The Swedish government is transitioning to a new immigration model to promote international recruitment of highly skilled workers, and more information about the changes being implemented can be found here. Employers could see delayed processing times as the fast-track processing scheme phases out.