Work Permit (Arbetstillstånd)
🇸🇪 Sweden visas · Work
What it is
Sweden has one of the most employer-friendly work permit systems in Europe. Any non-EU/EEA national with a genuine job offer can apply, no occupation list or quota restrictions. The offer must match Swedish collective agreement terms.
Key facts
- Category
- Work
- Duration
- 2 years, renewable up to 4 years. Permanent residence after 4 years.
- Processing time
- 4 months
- Maximum validity
- 2 years
- Extendable
- Yes
- Path to permanent residence
- Indirect route
- Dependants
- Yes
- How to apply
- Mixed
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee (employee)
- SEK 2,200
- Application fee (exempt: citizens of Japan pay no application fee)
- SEK 0
Key requirements
- Job offer from a Swedish employer
- Employment conditions (salary, insurance, pension) matching the relevant Swedish collective agreement or industry standard
- Salary of at least SEK 13,000 per month (minimum threshold)
- Employer must advertise the role in the EU/EEA for 10 days (or demonstrate the need)
- Relevant qualifications for the role
Working on this visa
Monthly salary must be at least SEK 34,470 (90% of the SCB median SEK 38,300); listed exempt occupations need 75%. Permit is tied to one employer and type of work; after two years of permits only to a type of work.
Bringing family
Spouse, registered/cohabiting partner and children under 21 may apply at the same time and get the same permit period. A maintenance requirement applies. Adults and children turning 16 that year may work. Citizens of Japan pay no fee.
Money you must show
2025 monthly sum left after rent; only if family applies
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 27 July 2026.