Last Thursday, a government document proposing changes to migration legislation was published: Better migration rules for researchers and doctoral students, as well as measures to counteract misuse of residence permits for studies. The document outlines how the state views the possibility of transitioning from temporary protection to other residence grounds in Sweden without leaving the country.

It is important to understand: this is not an active law, but a published proposal.

The core of the proposal is as follows. For individuals holding a residence permit under temporary protection (or after it ends), a separate mechanism is proposed that would allow them to apply for another type of residence permit from within Sweden (without leaving), but only if they genuinely meet the requirements for the new permit.

Possible transitions (if requirements are met):

– residence permit for employment or self-employment
– residence permit for research or higher education
– EU Blue Card (for highly qualified workers)
– family members of the above categories

The model is relatively simple:

While residing in Sweden under temporary protection, you may apply for a new permit (work / business / research / studies / Blue Card) without leaving the country. It is important to note that under general conditions, from 11 June 2026, the salary must amount to at least 90% of the median salary.

After applying, you may continue living in Sweden.
If granted a new permit, your temporary protection will be withdrawn (upon your request), and you will transition to the new permit. If your application is rejected, you will retain temporary protection for as long as it remains valid.

An important nuance: this model allows you to apply and receive a decision while remaining in Sweden. This is an exception to the general rule. However, you must apply while your temporary protection (or subsequent permit) is still valid.

Why does this matter? When the directive expires in 2027, and you have not applied for another permit by then, you will have to apply from outside Sweden under the general rule. The logic is simple: the new mechanism operates through the withdrawal of temporary protection. If the protection no longer exists, there is nothing to withdraw, and the exception cannot be applied.

This proposal may provide people already legally residing in Sweden with a more stable and long-term pathway – but only if they meet the requirements of the new permit. Temporary protection is designed as a temporary mechanism and does not lead to permanent residence, meaning these years are not counted (more on this in a future post).

The proposal is planned to enter into force on 11 June 2026. Until then, the current rules remain in effect. For those applying now, in February 2026, nothing has changed.

Please note that this proposal applies only to the permits listed above. For those planning family reunification with Swedish citizens, nothing changes at this time. Applications must still be submitted from outside Sweden unless there are strong reasons to wait within the country. Processing time is currently 15–18 months.

Author’s text, edited with AI assistance
If copying or sharing this content, please include a link to our channel or organisation. Otherwise, we reserve the right to request source attribution.

The Empower HUB project is implemented by HUG and partners. Co-funded by the European Union through the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).

‍