If you’re a non‑EU/EEA/Swiss citizen planning to work in Sweden for more than 90 days in 2025, you’ll need a valid work permit. Sweden is prized for its robust economy, excellent quality of life, and strong work–life balance. This guide outlines everything you need to know — from eligibility to arrival and beyond.
Who Needs a Sweden Work Permit?
You must apply if:
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You’re not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
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You have a job offer from a Swedish employer.
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You plan to stay and work over 90 days for the same job.
Citizens of the EU/EEA and Switzerland can live and work freely in Sweden but must register locally once they arrive.
Types of Work Permits
Sweden offers several categories based on your role:
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General Work Permit – for most professional employees.
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EU Blue Card – for highly qualified experts.
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ICT Permit – for intra‑company transfers.
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Seasonal Permit – for tourism, agriculture, or other seasonal roles.
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Researcher/Student Work Permit – for academic projects.
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Start‑Up Visa – for entrepreneurs launching businesses in Sweden.
For most applicants, the General Work Permit is the relevant category.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Your employer must advertise the position within the EU/EEA for at least 10 days before offering it externally. The offer must:
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Adhere to Swedish collective agreements.
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Meet minimum salary thresholds (typically around SEK 13,000/month, depending on the sector).
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Be a position that cannot be filled locally in Sweden.
Step 2: Employer Initiates Application
Your employer submits your application via the Swedish Migration Agency, including:
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Company registration information
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Job description and employment contract
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Evidence of health, life, and occupational insurance
Once submitted, you’ll receive an email link to your portion of the application.
Step 3: Complete Your Application Online
You must:
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Provide personal data and contact information
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Upload scanned passport and qualification documents
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Confirm your employment details
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Pay the application fee (typically around SEK 2,000)
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Ensure all documents are in English or Swedish and are clearly legible
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 1–3 months, though certified employers or complete documents may shorten the wait.
Step 5: Decision & Biometrics
Once approved, you’ll receive a digital decision letter instructing you to provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints) at a Swedish embassy or consulate.
Step 6: Receive Your Residence Permit Card
After biometrics, your permit card will be produced and sent to the embassy for collection.
Step 7: Travel to Sweden and Register
With your permit card in hand, you can:
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Enter Sweden and begin your job
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Register with the Swedish Tax Agency
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Apply for a personal identity number (personnummer)
Checklist: Requirements for Application
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Valid passport
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Job offer meeting Swedish salary and contract standards
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Health, life, and occupational insurance proof
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Proof of education or professional qualifications
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Complete online application and receipt of payment
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Clear and translated documents (English or Swedish)
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Commitment to return if employment ends or permit expires
Permit Duration and Extensions
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Initial work permits typically run up to 2 years.
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You can apply to extend your permit from inside Sweden.
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After 4 continuous years of permissible employment, you’re eligible to apply for permanent residence.
Your Rights on a Swedish Work Permit
With a valid permit, you are entitled to:
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Live and work legally in Sweden
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Bring eligible family members (they must apply too)
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Access healthcare under Swedish regulations
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Travel within the Schengen Area
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Eventually change employers (with permit update)
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Spouses often qualify for a work permit as well
Common Pitfalls & Tips
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Don’t apply without a valid job offer
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Ensure salary and insurance meet Swedish norms
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Submit high-quality, clearly scanned documents
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Wait until your permit is approved before entering Sweden
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Understand that not all permits are interchangeable — extensions and employer changes require formal updates
Additional Expert Tips
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Use a certified employer, which often speeds up processing
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Keep copies of all application materials and correspondence
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Check Sweden Migration Agency’s official site regularly for updates
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Keep your email notifications active — delays often stem from missed messages
FAQ:
Can I apply from inside Sweden?
No. You must submit your application from outside Sweden. You can only begin work after your permit is approved and your residence permit card issued.
What if I change employers mid‑permit?
You’ll need to apply for a new permit with the new employer — a transfer isn’t automatic.
Is a healthcare policy mandatory?
Yes. Swedish regulations require proof of valid health, life, and occupational insurance before approval.
How long does it take to get a personnummer?
Once registered at the Swedish Tax Agency, most receive their personnummer within 2–4 weeks, depending on workload.
Can I bring my family right away?
Yes. Your spouse and children can apply for permits simultaneously — they can start living and working in Sweden once approved.
By following this structured process and covering every requirement in full, your 2025 Sweden work visa application will stand on strong footing. Whenever you’re ready to begin, you’ll feel confident that you’ve taken all the right steps.
