The EU Blue Card (EU-blåkort, a combined work and residence permit for highly qualified jobs) changed in 2026. If you hold one, or want one, two things matter most.
Since 1 June 2026 the permit can be granted for up to four years. And if you change job or employer, you report it to Migrationsverket instead of applying for a new permit.
What the EU Blue Card is
The EU Blue Card is a single permit that covers both work and residence. It is meant for högkvalificerad (highly qualified) employment. You apply for it from Migrationsverket (the Swedish Migration Agency).
To qualify, you need a job offer that pays enough and lasts long enough. The salary must reach a set threshold. The contract must run for at least six months.
What changed in 2026
Since 1 January 2025 the salary threshold is 1.25 times the average gross salary in Sweden. That figure comes from the National Mediation Office (Medlingsinstitutet).
Migrationsverket lists the threshold as about 53,625 kronor a month, as of 15 July 2026. The figure is updated, so it can change before you apply.
The permit used to be granted for up to two years. Since 1 June 2026 it can be granted for up to four years. The shortest permit is still nine months.
Changing jobs got simpler. A Blue Card holder who changes job or employer reports it to Migrationsverket. You do not apply for a new permit for that change.
There are also more ways to switch to a Blue Card from another permit without leaving Sweden.
Blue Card or ordinary arbetstillstånd?
Many readers ask whether the Blue Card beats an ordinary arbetstillstånd (work permit). The honest answer depends on your job and your salary.
The Blue Card sets a high salary floor. In return it can now last up to four years, and a job change is reported rather than re-applied for. An ordinary work permit has its own rules and its own salary requirement.
What to do now
Check the current salary threshold before you apply, because Migrationsverket updates the figure. Confirm that your contract is at least six months and that your job counts as highly qualified.
This article is not legal advice for your case. Which permit fits your job, salary, and qualifications is something only Migrationsverket can tell you.
Sources
Official details can change. Always confirm what applies to your own case directly with the responsible authority.
