Uzbeks can now go to Sweden for work

An agreement on a comprehensive partnership in the field of migration and mobility was signed today, June 10, between the Government of Uzbekistan and the Government of the Kingdom of Sweden, a QALAMPIR.UZ journalist reported.

According to the report, the agreement is the only state-guaranteed legal mechanism that allows citizens of Uzbekistan to officially work, study and live in Sweden. The document comprehensively regulates labor mobility, academic cooperation, the fight against illegal migration and return procedures.

In particular, under the document, citizens of Uzbekistan will be able to find work legally in the Swedish labor market. Uzbeks may travel to Sweden for employment in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, services and care work. In addition, broad information exchange will be established on Swedish labor market models, administrative procedures and entry requirements. Through digital platforms and targeted information campaigns, Uzbek candidates will be able to connect with Swedish employers.

At the same time, the agreement separately guarantees the rights of Uzbek citizens working in Sweden and their family members.

Working conditions and wages will be ensured in accordance with Swedish legislation.

Social security rules will be established for illness, pregnancy and other circumstances.

The rights and interests of workers’ family members will be protected at the interstate level.

In addition, the document creates special opportunities for students, doctoral candidates and young researchers traveling from Uzbekistan to Sweden for study. Applications to scholarship and academic exchange programs through Swedish government programs will be encouraged. Cooperation in vocational education and training will be expanded, including the teaching of sector-specific Swedish language, as well as the introduction of occupational safety and healthcare modules.

It was noted that the two sides agreed to continue cooperation on simplifying the issuance of various visa categories and periods of stay. Under a separate agreement, holders of diplomatic passports will be allowed visa-free entry for up to 30 days.

The agreement not only opens opportunities for work and study, but also defines cooperation in combating illegal migration, human trafficking and document forgery. If a citizen of Uzbekistan or Sweden is found to be residing illegally in the territory of the other country, they will be returned to their homeland.

Earlier this year, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a video conference on the activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions abroad, during which he emphasized the importance of signing intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements on migration with Japan, Sweden, Norway, Bulgaria, Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, Greece and Oman.