Sweden Shortage Occupation List 2025 :- Build Your Career in Europe
Sweden has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals. With a strong economy, world-class infrastructure, and a reputation for innovation, the country actively welcomes global talent. If you are planning to work abroad, understanding the Sweden shortage occupation list 2025 is the first step toward a smooth migration process.
The shortage occupation list highlights job roles where Swedish employers struggle to find qualified candidates locally. International applicants who fit these roles enjoy faster work-permit processing and excellent career prospects. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, IT expert, or engineer, Sweden offers opportunities to advance your career and experience a high standard of living.
Why Sweden Needs Skilled Foreign Workers?
Sweden faces an aging population and rapid technological growth. These factors have created critical gaps in several industries. The Swedish Migration Agency updates the shortage list every year to identify sectors where demand outpaces supply. For international professionals, this means:
- Fast-track work permits with simplified documentation
- Attractive salaries and competitive employee benefits
- A clear path to permanent residency after continuous employment
Professionals who match roles on the shortage list can often begin working in Sweden within a few months of applying.
Key Sectors in the Sweden Shortage Occupation List 2025
Below are the primary industries with high demand, along with sample roles:
Shortage Occupations List in Sweden
| Category | Professions |
| Construction and Building | Construction Workers, Concrete Workers, Carpenters, Scaffold Builder, Sheet Metal Worker, Bricklayer, Ceiling Fitters, Construction Machine Operator, Building and Ventilation Sheet Metal Workers, Carpenter, Woodworkers and Carpenters |
| Engineering and Technical Professions | Civil Engineer in Construction, Civil Engineer in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineer in Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineer in Logistics and Production Planning, Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Distribution Electrician, Operations Engineer (IT), Precision Mechanics Engineer, Mechanical Engineers, Engineers and Technicians in Construction, Technicians in Electrical Engineering, Engineers and Technicians in Industry, Logistics and Production Planning, Engineers and Technicians in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Installation and Service Electrician, Support Technician (IT), Systems Analysts and IT Architects, System Administrator, System Tester and Test Leader, Electronics Repairers and Communications Electricians, Network and System Technicians, Process Supervisor in the Chemical Industry, Property Manager, Mechanical Machinery Assemblers, Machine Installers and Machine Operators in Metal Work, Maintenance Mechanics and Machine Repairers, Process Operators (Wood and Paper Industry), Technicians at Heating and Waterworks, Cooling and Heat Pump Technicians, Laboratory Engineers, Varnishes and Industrial Painters, Machine Operators (Rubber, Plastics, and Stationery Industry), Machine Operators (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Products), Carpenters and Machine Operators in the Wood Industry |
| Healthcare and Medical Professions | Pharmacists, Midwives, Nanny, Social Work Professionals, Biomedical Analysts, Nurses, X-ray Nurses, Dental Hygienists, Dentists, Dental Nurses, Dental Technicians and Orthopedic Engineers, Doctors, Psychologists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Specialist Nurses in Emergency Health Care, Specialist Nurses in General Health Care, Medical Secretaries and Care Administrators, Assistant Nurses (Home Care and Nursing Homes), Nurses (Ward and Receptionist – Healthcare) |
| Education and Teaching | Preschool Teachers, Primary School Teachers, High School Teachers, Teachers in Vocational Subjects, Special Needs Teachers and Educators, University and College Teachers, Guidance Counselors |
| Social Services and Care | Social Aid Assessor, Social Insurance Administrator, Social Secretary, Curators, Personal Assistants, Caregivers and Housing Supporters, Nursing Assistant |
| Business, Finance, and Law | Business Salesman, Controller, Lawyers, Buyers and Purchasers, Accounting Economists, Auditors, Freight Forwarders and Transport Brokers, Property Managers |
| Food Services and Hospitality | Bakers and Confectioners, Bartenders, Chefs and Servers, Foremen and Waiters, Prison and Probation Officers, Taxi Driver, Truck Driver, Train Driver, Train Hosts and Onboard Managers |
| Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental | Driver of Agricultural and Forestry Machinery, Farmer (Agricultural Plants, Fruits, and Berries), Forest Workers, Plant Breeders and Animal Breeders with Mixed Operation, Breeders and Caretakers of Farm Animals, Environmental and Health Inspectors, Butchers and Slaughterers, Gardeners |
| Information Technology | Software and System Developers, Systems Analysts and IT Architects, System Administrators, Support Technicians (IT), Network and System Technicians |
| Transportation and Logistics | Bus and Tram Drivers, Truck Drivers, Train Drivers, Transport Managers and Transport Coordinators, Truck Driver, Freight Forwarders, and, Transport Brokers |
| Security and Public Safety | Guards and Security Guards, Security Inspectors, Prison and Probation Officers |
| Art, Media, and Design | Painters, Varnishes and Industrial Painters, Hairdressers, Interpreters, Telephone Salesman, Welders |
| Miscellaneous | Cleaners, Caretaker, Sanitation Workers, Receptionists, Taxi Drivers, Nanny |
Always cross-check with the Swedish Migration Agency for the most up-to-date shortage list before you apply.
Benefits of Targeting a Shortage Occupation list in Sweden
- Priority Processing: Work permits for shortage roles are typically processed within weeks instead of months.
- Reduced Employer Burden: Employers do not need to prove they searched for local talent before hiring you.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After four years of continuous employment, you may qualify for long-term residency and eventually citizenship.
These advantages make shortage-occupation roles the fastest route for skilled professionals who want to settle in Sweden.
Average Salary in Sweden
Understanding how much you can expect to earn is essential when considering relocation. Here are some up-to-date salary benchmarks in Sweden:
- The average gross monthly salary in Sweden is about SEK 36,100–SEK 40,300 before taxes.
- The median monthly salary (50th percentile) is approximately SEK 34,300-SEK 35,600.
- Salaries vary significantly by occupation, experience, and location. For example:
• Engineering managers / architectural & engineering leadership roles: around SEK 55,000-SEK 60,000+ per month on average.
• Nurses tend to earn in the region of SEK 35,000-SEK 40,000 depending on specialization and location .
• Teachers, social workers, public sector professionals commonly see salaries in the SEK 30,000-SEK 40,000 range.
Check full Average Salary in Sweden according to occupation
How World Overseas Services Supports
Securing a work permit can be complex without expert guidance. World Overseas Services, a trusted name in global immigration, offers end-to-end support for professionals seeking exploring the Sweden job seeker visa pathway. Our services include:
- Personalized Profile Assessment: We evaluate your experience against the latest Sweden shortage occupation list 2025 to identify the best visa options.
- Job-Search Assistance: Our recruitment network in Sweden helps you connect with reputable employers.
- Complete Documentation & Application Support: From offer letters to work-permit submissions, we handle every step efficiently.
- Post-Landing Services: Guidance on housing, local registration, and family relocation.
By working with World Overseas Services, you reduce application errors and improve your chances of receiving a visa approval on the first attempt.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Sweden Job Seeker Visa
- Check the Current Shortage Occupation List: Verify that your profession is listed for 2025.
- Secure a Job Offer: Swedish employers must provide a formal contract meeting the country’s employment standards.
- Gather Required Documents: Valid passport, educational certificates, and an official employment offer are essential.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the Migration Agency’s e-service for faster processing.
- Await Decision & Travel: Most shortage occupation permits are granted within a few weeks if all requirements are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Swedish?
Many IT and engineering roles accept English speakers. However, learning Swedish improves job opportunities and workplace integration.
How long is the Sweden work permit valid?
Usually two years, renewable as long as you remain employed in a qualifying shortage occupation.
Can my family join me?
Yes, spouses and dependent children can apply for accompanying residence permits.
Is a job offer mandatory?
For most work permits, yes. Alternatively, explore a Sweden job seeker visa to look for employment after arriving.