If you are an EU citizen, you don’t have to apply for a work visa for Sweden to reside in the country under an employment contract.
However, if you are from outside the EU, you typically need a valid visa to work abroad in Europe.
The primary requirement is to obtain a visa before entering the country.
To simplify the process, we recommend submitting your application online.
Sending applications online directly to the Swedish Migration Agency guarantees a faster processing time.
From work visa requirements to application processing times, here’s everything you need to know on how to legally work in Sweden.
Understanding the Process
If you want to work in Sweden, you must first get a job offer from a local employer.
Both you and your employer must sign a work contract as a preliminary step.
Next, you can proceed with your work visa application.
Do note that in Sweden, a work visa combines both work and residence permits.
This means that you don’t need to submit separate applications for them.
There is only one exception to this rule.
If you are to work in Sweden as a seasonal worker (for up to 90 days), you may need to hold both a work visa and a work permit.
If this situation applies to you, make sure you also check the following guide: Schengen Visa Application Process And Requirements.
It will provide you with a detailed overview of how to apply for a short-stay Schengen Visa (which is valid in most EU countries, including Sweden).
How to Apply for a Work Visa for Sweden
After signing a work contract, your employer must initiate the application for a work visa and permit.
As we mentioned at the start of this article, the application can be completed online.
This makes the entire process relatively easy and straightforward.
To start, your employer must log in to the Swedish Migration Agency.
At this stage of the application, they will need to provide information about the employment and attach supporting documents.
Once your employer has completed their part of the application, you will receive an email.
The email will contain information on the steps you must follow to complete your part of the application.
In most cases, you will be required to attach a copy of your passport, employment contract, and relevant family documents (if they’re joining you in Sweden).
You will also need to pay a fee to the Swedish Migration Agency.
The fee for a Swedish work permit is SEK 2,200 (around 190 EUR).
Depending on the agreement you have with your employer, they may be able to pay the application processing fee for you.
Next, you will have to show your passport in person at a Swedish diplomatic mission located in your home country. The Swedish Migration Agency will provide you with all the necessary information on how and when to do so.
Depending on your nationality and the type of employment, you may also need to provide your biometric features to the embassy (i.e. your fingerprints and photo).
After showing your passport, the Swedish Migration Agency will process your application.
You and your employer will be notified once a decision is made.
For most industries, the average processing time for a work permit in Sweden is 15 months.