Who Needs a Work Permit in Sweden
In Sweden, citizens from countries outside the EU/EEA generally require a work permit to be employed. Exceptions exist for certain groups, such as individuals from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea aged 18–30, who can apply for a working holiday visa valid for up to one year. Additionally, for employment lasting less than three months, citizens of certain countries may need both a work permit and a visa. It's important to note that employees in specific fields might be exempt from work permit regulations.
Types of Work Visas in Sweden
Sweden offers various work visas tailored to different employment scenarios. Understanding these options is crucial for employers to determine the appropriate permit for their prospective international employees.
| Visa Type | Description |
| General Work Permit | For non-EU/EEA nationals with a job offer from a Swedish employer. |
| EU Blue Card | For highly skilled workers with higher education qualifications and a job offer meeting specific salary thresholds. |
| Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit | For employees of multinational companies transferring to a Swedish branch. |
| Working Holiday Visa | For young individuals (18–30) from specific countries, allowing work and travel in Sweden for up to one year. |
| Seasonal Work Permit | For temporary employment in sectors like agriculture and tourism. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Sweden
When hiring talent in Sweden, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Sweden. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (median of 52 days and an average of 116 days), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Sweden.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Sweden
Independent professionals in Sweden can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Czech Koruna (CZK) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Sweden.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Sweden
Transferring an existing team member to Sweden? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Sweden
To obtain a work permit in Sweden, both the employer and the employee must meet specific criteria. The employment must offer terms that are on par with Swedish collective agreements or customary within the occupation or industry. Additionally, the employee's salary must amount to at least 80% of the Swedish median salary. The employer is also required to provide insurance covering health, life, employment, and pension for the employee.
- Valid Passport: The employee must possess a passport with validity extending beyond the intended period of employment.
- Employment Contract: A contract signed by both parties detailing job duties, salary, and other employment conditions.
- Salary Threshold: The offered salary must be at least 80% of the Swedish median salary.
- Insurance Coverage: The employer must provide health, life, industrial injury, and occupational pension insurance.
- Advertisement of Position: The job vacancy must have been advertised within the EU/EEA for at least 10 days before hiring a non-EU/EEA candidate.
Sweden Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Job Advertisement - Advertise the position within the EU/EEA for a minimum of 10 days to ensure no suitable candidate is available within the region.
- Step 2: Employment Offer - Prepare an employment offer that meets Swedish standards, including salary and insurance requirements.
- Step 3: Union Approval - Obtain a statement from the relevant trade union confirming that the employment terms are in line with collective agreements.
- Step 4: Application Submission - The employer initiates the application by providing necessary information to the Swedish Migration Agency. The employee then completes their part of the application, attaching required documents.
- Step 5: Application Fee - Pay the applicable fee for processing the work permit application.
- Step 6: Await Decision - The Swedish Migration Agency processes the application, which may take several months.
- Step 7: Residence Permit Card - Upon approval, if the employee requires a visa to enter Sweden, they must visit a Swedish embassy or consulate to provide biometric data for the residence permit card.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Sweden
Employers in Sweden play a pivotal role in sponsoring work permits for international employees. This involves advertising the position, ensuring employment terms meet Swedish standards, obtaining union approval, and assisting the employee throughout the application process. Employers must also register the employment with the Swedish Tax Agency and ensure that the necessary insurances are in place.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Sweden
| Visa Type | Application Fee (SEK) |
| General Work Permit | 2,200 |
| EU Blue Card | 2,000 |
| Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit | 2,000 |
| Seasonal Work Permit | 2,000 |
| Extension of Work Permit | 2,200 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Sweden
The processing times for work permits in Sweden can vary depending on the type of application and whether the employer is certified. For first-time applications, certified employers typically experience shorter processing times, with a median of 52 days and an average of 116 days. Non-certified employers face longer processing periods, averaging 144 days. Extension applications can also take longer, with certified employers averaging 220 days and non-certified employers averaging 335 days.
Factors such as the completeness of the application, the specific industry, and the workload of the Swedish Migration Agency can impact these timelines. Employers are advised to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Sweden
Work permits in Sweden are typically issued for a maximum of two years at a time. Employers must ensure that renewal applications are submitted before the current permit expires to maintain legal working status for their employees. Applications for permanent residence permits can only be processed once the employee’s temporary residence permit has expired, so employers should plan accordingly.
It is recommended not to submit renewal applications more than 30 days before the expiration date of the current permit to prevent overlaps or processing delays.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Sweden
Currently, Sweden does not offer a specific visa designed for digital nomads. Individuals who wish to work remotely from Sweden must apply for a residence permit based on employment or self-employment. This process requires fulfilling standard work permit criteria, including proof of employment or a registered business in Sweden.
- Employment Offer: Applicants must have a valid employment contract with a Swedish company or be self-employed with a registered business.
- Financial Proof: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
- Compliance with Laws: Both employers and employees must adhere to Swedish taxation, social security, and employment laws.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Sweden
Employers hiring international talent in Sweden may face challenges related to legal compliance, lengthy processing times, and documentation requirements. Addressing these challenges effectively requires preparation and strategic planning.
- Lengthy Processing Times: Applications for work permits may take several months, particularly for non-certified employers. Employers should start the process early to accommodate potential delays.
- Complex Legal Requirements: Navigating salary thresholds, union approvals, and insurance obligations can be challenging. Employers should ensure compliance with Swedish labor laws.
- Documentation Errors: Incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to delays. Employers should review all paperwork carefully before submission.
Tips: Employers are encouraged to work closely with immigration consultants or legal experts to streamline the process. Maintaining open communication with the Swedish Migration Agency can also help avoid delays.
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