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Reader's story: 'I've poured my heart and soul into building a life in Sweden'

The Local Sweden
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Reader's story: 'I've poured my heart and soul into building a life in Sweden'
The Local's reader Farha is urging decision-makers to exempt current work permit holders from a new law that threatens their future in Sweden. Photo: Private
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Work permit holders are individuals with hopes and dreams, not faceless numbers, writes The Local's reader Farha in an open letter to Swedish decision-makers, urging them to exempt foreigners already living and working in Sweden from a new salary threshold.

My name is Farha, and I am writing to you as a dedicated worker and a mother who has poured her heart and soul into building a life here in Sweden.

My story is one that reflects the hopes and dreams of many immigrants who have come to this beautiful country in pursuit of a better life.

Four years ago, I arrived in Sweden with my two precious children, Inaaya and Emilia, then aged five and one. We embarked on his journey with dreams of creating a brighter future for ourselves and becoming valuable members of Swedish society.

Over the years, my children have thrived in their new surroundings, embraced Swedish culture, and are growing into promising individuals.

I have tirelessly worked to integrate into Swedish society, dedicating myself to my studies and career with the aspiration of becoming an engineer in this wonderful country. Every challenge I’ve faced has only solidified my commitment to being a responsible, law-abiding resident of Sweden.

Recently, we were granted an extension to our residence permit, and the next step on our journey is to apply for permanent residency. My children and I have, against all odds, built a life here, one that we cherish and are immensely proud of.

However, I write to you today with a heavy heart and a sense of deep concern for the future. The new wage requirements for work permits, particularly the implementation of an 80 percent median salary floor, cast a shadow of uncertainty over our lives.

EXPLAINED:

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What keeps me awake at night is the thought that my children, who have fully embraced Swedish culture and consider this country their home, may face the heart-wrenching possibility of being uprooted from the only home they have ever known.

I implore the government and decision-makers to consider the countless stories like mine – stories of determination, dedication, and hope.

We are not faceless numbers; we are individuals with dreams and aspirations, striving to make a positive contribution to Sweden.

WORK PERMIT HOLDERS:

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My plea is straightforward: exempt those of us who already hold valid residence permits and have worked tirelessly to build a decent life in Sweden from these new requirements.

Our lives are intricately woven into the fabric of Swedish society, and any abrupt changes would be devastating not only for us but for the entire community we have become part of.

I humbly request your support and advocacy for a compassionate and fair solution – one that considers the well-being and future of families like mine.

We are not seeking special treatment, only a chance to continue building our lives in this beautiful country that we have come to love.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Med vänliga hälsningar,

Farha

What do you think of the new salary threshold for work permit holders? You can give your own opinion in the comments section below, or if you have any tips, insights or views about an aspect of life in Sweden you want to share with readers then email us at news@thelocal.se. We can't reply to all emails, but we read them all and will get back to you if we're able to publish your story.

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Comments (2)

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Julie-ann Stone
I agree, the requirements should be only for people wanted to move to Sweden, not for those already here building a life and contributing to the country. There will be a mass exodus from Sweden and a realization from the government that all of these people actually add value to the country. There are many important jobs that keep society going but do not meet the salary threshold and there seem to be many foreigners that complement these staff numbers - people from all over the world.
Jack
I used to live in the USA. It was great. Never would have left. Had to leave. Work visa problems. Came down the the wire. Had to pack up fast, and get out. Happens all over the world. Canada is wide open. Go for it. You won't regret your decision.

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