Scandinavia is experiencing significant demand for skilled workers, driven by an aging population, green energy transitions, and rapid digitalization. The highest demand is in engineering, healthcare, IT, and specialized skilled trades. Read more about the demand for skilled workers in Scandinavia.
Denmark’s latest list, effective January 1, 2026, includes the Positive Lists for both graduates and skilled workers. The new Positive List for People with a Higher Education includes 180 job titles (down from 187), while the Positive List for Skilled Work includes 54 job titles (down from 65). Notable additions to the Higher Education Positive List include Business Intelligence Manager, Movie, TV and Animation Designer, and Communication Officer.
The Positive Lists – which are updated twice a year – designate shortage occupations eligible for a Positive List Program residence and work authorization in Denmark. These changes do not affect current Positive List permit holders, who can renew their permits provided they continue to meet general renewal conditions, even if their job title was removed from the Positive List.
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Related: 5 Great Remote Jobs Opportunities in Scandinavia for Travel Lovers
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Norway: Top In-Demand Jobs (2025–2026)
The Norwegian job market requires specialists, with particular demand in the following sectors:
- Engineering & Technology: Civil, mechanical, electrical, automation, process, and offshore engineers.
- Healthcare: Nurses (especially specialized), doctors, and health service personnel.
- IT & Digitalization: Software engineers, developers, cybersecurity experts, and data analysts.
- Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, mechanics (passenger cars, trucks, and ships), and welders.
- Other: Teachers (kindergarten and school), project managers, and finance professionals.
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Related: Moving to Scandinavia: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Sweden: Top In-Demand Jobs (2025–2035)
Sweden is facing a total shortage of approximately 70,000 people across various sectors.
- IT & Tech: AI/ML specialists, software developers, cloud, and cybersecurity professionals.
- Engineering: Chemical, electrical, mechanical, mining, and building construction engineers.
- Healthcare: Specialized doctors, nurses, and geriatric/elderly care workers.
- Skilled Trades: HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.
- Other: Educators (especially in STEM), finance controllers, and transportation staff (truck drivers).
Required language skills
While English is widely used in IT and private engineering firms, proficiency in the local language (Norwegian/Danish/Swedish) is generally required for healthcare and public sector roles.
Green Transition
Massive investments in battery manufacturing, sustainable transport, and renewable energy are driving demand for specialized, highly skilled workers.
Visa & Immigration
Non-EU/EEA nationals usually require a job offer to obtain a work permit. In Norway, the “Positive List” outlines specific roles in shortage areas, while Sweden often seeks high-level specialized skills.
Skilled Workers Needed in Scandinavia, compiled by Tor Kjolberg