Work Permit – Residence Permit for Employment in Sweden

 

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA, you will generally need a work permit to be employed in Sweden. This applies whether you are hired directly by a Swedish employer, placed through a staffing agency, or transferred within a corporate group. To qualify, you must have a valid passport and a signed employment contract. The contract must reflect fair wages and conditions in line with Swedish collective agreements or industry norms. Your employer must also arrange health, life, industrial injury, and pension insurance before your employment begins.

 

Your salary must enable you to make a good living in Sweden, which means earning at least SEK 28,480/month (as of 2025), equivalent to 80% of the current Swedish median salary. This threshold may be higher depending on your profession.

 

Applications are initiated by your employer via the Migration Agency’s online system. Once they’ve submitted their part and the relevant union has been consulted, you’ll receive a link to complete your portion, submit supporting documents, and select a Swedish embassy or consulate for passport verification. You may be called for an interview. 

 

Family members, including spouses, partners, and children under 21, can apply alongside you. If approved, they may also work in Sweden. However, you must meet a maintenance requirement, proving your income can support your household after rent and basic expenses.

 

Key Facts:

 

• Minimum salary: SEK 28,480/month (2025)
• Must have a valid passport and signed job contract
• Employer must provide all required insurances
• Application is initiated by the employer
• Family members may apply and are allowed to work
• Permit duration: up to 2 years, renewable
• Most first-time applications must be made from outside Sweden

 

At Vedette Legal, we assist with every step of the Swedish work permit process, including family applications and employer coordination.

 

 Book a consultation to begin your application