How to Apply for a Work Permit in Sweden

Before applying for a work permit, it's important to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. These include:

• Job Offer: You must have a valid job offer from a Swedish employer. The position must meet certain criteria regarding salary and employment conditions.
• Salary and Employment Conditions: The salary and employment conditions must be in line with Swedish collective agreements or what is customary for the occupation in Sweden. This ensures that workers are not exploited.
• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizenship: You need a work permit if you are from outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. Citizens from these regions require a work permit to work in Sweden.
• Job Position: The job must require skills that are in demand in Sweden. For example, Sweden has a shortage of workers in specific fields such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and certain trades.

The first step to applying for a work permit is securing a job offer from a Swedish employer. The employer must advertise the job vacancy in Sweden and the EU/EEA for at least ten days before hiring a non-EU worker. This ensures that priority is given to candidates from within the EU/EEA. Once the employer has selected you for the position, they will provide you with a job offer, which you will need as part of your work permit application.

For your work permit application to be approved, the job offer must meet the following conditions:

• Salary: The job must offer a salary that is in line with Swedish standards. Generally, the salary must be sufficient to support yourself and any family members who accompany you. In 2024, the minimum salary requirement is 80% of the median salary, which must be at least 28,480 SEK per month to obtain a work permit. For more qualified roles, this amount may vary.
• Employment Conditions: The work permit application will only be approved if the employment conditions are consistent with Swedish labor laws, including working hours, vacation time, and other benefits such as sick leave or pension contributions.
• Employment Contract: The job offer should come with a written employment contract that specifies details about the role, salary, working conditions, and other relevant terms.

Once you have a job offer and your employer has met the requirements, you can apply for a work permit. The application can be submitted online through the Swedish Migration Agency’s website, or you can apply by paper (although online applications are faster and more efficient). To apply, you need to submit the following documents:

1. Job Offer: A copy of the job offer or employment contract.
2. Passport: A valid passport that is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Sweden.
3. Proof of Qualifications: Documents that show you meet the qualifications for the job. This may include degrees, diplomas, or other certificates relevant to the role.
4. Application Form: Complete the work permit application form on the Swedish Migration Agency's website. The form asks for personal details, employer information, the job offer, and other relevant information.
5. Application Fee: Pay the application fee for the work permit. The fee depends on the type of work permit you are applying for, but it usually ranges between 2,000 and 5,000 SEK.

After you have submitted your application, you must wait for a decision from the Swedish Migration Agency. The processing time for work permits can vary, but it generally takes between 1 and 4 months. During this time, the Swedish Migration Agency may request additional documents or clarifications regarding your application. It is also important to note that the Swedish Migration Agency assesses your application based on the employment conditions and whether the job offer meets the necessary criteria. If your application is rejected, you can appeal the decision or apply for a new permit if you can rectify the issue.

If your work permit is approved, you will receive a residence permit card, which is proof that you are allowed to work and live in Sweden for the duration of the permit's validity.

• Residence Permit: A work permit is usually granted for up to two years. After that, you can apply for an extension. If you want to stay longer or become a permanent resident, there are additional options to explore after several years of continuous employment in Sweden.
• Family Members: If you receive a work permit, your close family members (spouse, registered partner, children under 21) can also apply for a residence permit to join you in Sweden. They are allowed to work or study while in the country.
• Register with the Swedish Tax Agency: Upon arrival in Sweden, you should register with the Swedish Tax Agency to obtain a personal identification number, which is necessary for activities such as opening a bank account and accessing social security benefits.

After your initial work permit expires, you can apply for an extension or transition to permanent residence if you meet the necessary criteria. Generally, after four years of continuous employment, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence.