
Update - November 29, 2023: Swedish authorities have confirmed that the original November 18, 2023 deadline for domestic implementation of the new EU Blue Card Directive has been delayed, and that no new date for future implementation has yet been confirmed. We are tracking developments and will provide further updates when possible.
Original - April 21, 2023: A proposed law would implement a new EU Blue Card Directive in November 2023, with key proposals including: an easier process for those seeking to switch their immigration status to an EU Blue Card; fewer administrative hurdles for EU Blue Card holders seeking to change employers in Sweden; a shorter required duration of employment for EU Blue Card applicants; and improvements for holders of EU Blue Cards granted in other EU Member States. The purpose of the proposals is to attract and retain highly-qualified workers to Sweden and facilitate their mobility within the European Union. The proposed law is out for comments from affected stakeholders, after which the Council of Legislation will review the new draft, followed by a vote by the Parliament and passing of the bill. The content of the bill is subject to change and we will report on related developments.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Media mentions
Partner Marius Tollenaere outlines the key 2026 EU Blue Card changes employers must understand to stay compliant and competitive.
Media mentions
Partner Charlotte Slocombe explained options available to Scotland fans whose US ESTAs have been denied or revoked ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses evolving corporate relocation strategies and sustained demand for moves to the Gulf.
Blog post
Partner K. Edward Raleigh analyzes post‑midterm business immigration risks in Part 3 of this blog series, outlining four possible election outcomes and the practical steps employers should take to prepare for increased enforcement and scrutiny.
Media mentions
Partner Natasha Catterson explains how the UK ETA scheme is changing business travel by requiring pre-travel digital approval for many visa-exempt visitors.
Media mentions
Partner K. Edward Raleigh discusses the recent H-1B fee ruling and the potential for further appeals.
Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper discussed a federal court decision vacating the $100,000 H-1B fee and noted that further legal proceedings are likely to shape the policy’s future.
Blog post
Manager Adela Schmidt examines common misconceptions in German immigration law, including EU Blue Card mobility, short-term work permissions, residence permit extensions and communication with immigration authorities.
Media mentions
Frankfurt Managing Partner Axel Boysen examines Germany's new Section 45c requirements and highlights key compliance considerations for employers recruiting talent from abroad.
Video
Senior Manager Sergio Flores discusses key immigration and travel considerations for individuals planning to visit Mexico during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, including visa waiver status, passport validity, FMM documentation and potential work-related visa requirements.
Media mentions
Partner Audrea Golding discusses how top-funded startups may have greater flexibility in managing H-1B costs amid evolving hiring dynamics.
Video
Manager Mihaela Dumitru discusses the Swiss citizenship process, including the authorities involved, key naturalization routes and why early planning is important.
Media mentions
Partner Marius Tollenaere outlines the key 2026 EU Blue Card changes employers must understand to stay compliant and competitive.
Media mentions
Partner Charlotte Slocombe explained options available to Scotland fans whose US ESTAs have been denied or revoked ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses evolving corporate relocation strategies and sustained demand for moves to the Gulf.
Blog post
Partner K. Edward Raleigh analyzes post‑midterm business immigration risks in Part 3 of this blog series, outlining four possible election outcomes and the practical steps employers should take to prepare for increased enforcement and scrutiny.
Media mentions
Partner Natasha Catterson explains how the UK ETA scheme is changing business travel by requiring pre-travel digital approval for many visa-exempt visitors.
Media mentions
Partner K. Edward Raleigh discusses the recent H-1B fee ruling and the potential for further appeals.
Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper discussed a federal court decision vacating the $100,000 H-1B fee and noted that further legal proceedings are likely to shape the policy’s future.
Blog post
Manager Adela Schmidt examines common misconceptions in German immigration law, including EU Blue Card mobility, short-term work permissions, residence permit extensions and communication with immigration authorities.
Media mentions
Frankfurt Managing Partner Axel Boysen examines Germany's new Section 45c requirements and highlights key compliance considerations for employers recruiting talent from abroad.
Video
Senior Manager Sergio Flores discusses key immigration and travel considerations for individuals planning to visit Mexico during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, including visa waiver status, passport validity, FMM documentation and potential work-related visa requirements.
Media mentions
Partner Audrea Golding discusses how top-funded startups may have greater flexibility in managing H-1B costs amid evolving hiring dynamics.
Video
Manager Mihaela Dumitru discusses the Swiss citizenship process, including the authorities involved, key naturalization routes and why early planning is important.
