The requirements for obtaining a work permit vary depending on your situation and the reason for your application. Also, they vary depending on whether you want to work in Sweden as an employee, to run your own business or if you have a degree from higher education and want to come here to look for work.

When you’re seeking employment

To obtain a work permit as an employee, you have to meet the following requirements:

• Employment contract: You have to have a valid contract with terms that are at least as favorable as those in Swedish collective agreements, or according to the standard in your industry.
• Insurance: Your employer has to provide health insurance, life insurance, occupational injury insurance, and pension insurance.
• Valid passport: You have to have a valid passport for the entire period you’re applying for a work permit.
• Salary: Your salary has to be at the same level or higher than the current maintenance requirement set by the Swedish Migration Agency.

If you have a family that also wants to move to Sweden with you, you have to show that you have a sufficiently high income to support both yourself and your family. However, this requirement only applies during the first application you make for a residence permit for your family. If you extend your work permit, you won’t need to prove that you can support them again. In certain cases, the Migration Agency can also make exceptions to this requirement.

When you want to start and run a business in Sweden

If you plan to start and run your own business in Sweden, you have to meet the following requirements:

• Valid passport: You have to have a valid passport for the entire period you’re applying for a work permit.
• Responsibility for the business: You have to be able to prove that you’re the one running the business and that you have decisive responsibility for the operations.
• Experience: You have to also show that you have prior experience in running a business and that you have adequate experience in the industry you’ll be working in.
• Credible business plan: You have to present a credible business plan that shows that the business is sustainable.
• Language skills: You need to speak Swedish or English well enough to run your business without language barriers.
• Financial means: You have to show that you have sufficient personal funds to support both yourself and any family members who also accompany you to Sweden.

When you have a degree from higher education

If you have a degree from higher education, you can also apply for work permit to seek employment in Sweden. The work permit will then apply whether you’re seeking employment or want to explore the possibilities of starting a business here. The permit is valid for up to nine months and applies to you only. Your family won’t be able to move here with you during this period.

What we help with in work permit processes

Consultation
We help you understand the requirements and process for applying for a work permit in Sweden, whether you’re applying as an employee or to run a business here.

Documentation and application
We assist you in gathering and compiling all necessary documents to ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

Representation
If you encounter problems during the application process, or if your application is denied, we’ll help you appeal the decision and represent you before the Migration Agency.

FAQ about work permits

Do I need a work permit to work in Sweden?
If you’re a citizen of a country outside the EU, you generally need a work permit to work in Sweden.

What are the requirements for obtaining a work permit as an employee?
You need a valid employment contract, proper insurance, a valid passport, and salary that meets the current maintenance requirement.

Can I bring my family to Sweden if I have a work permit?
Yes, but you need to show that you can support yourself and your family during the initial application.