A Guide for Global Employers Seeking Work Authorization in Sweden

Expanding a global workforce often means traversing a maze of international employment laws, and Sweden is no exception. While the country offers an appealing mix of innovation, economic stability, and a high quality of life, hiring foreign talent or relocating workers there comes with strict legal requirements. Understanding Sweden’s work visa and permit landscape is essential for avoiding noncompliance and ensuring a seamless hiring process.

Here’s the latest on what every global employer and professional should know about how to work legally in Sweden in 2025.

Work authorization options in Sweden

Sweden offers several work authorization pathways for foreign nationals, each tied to specific job roles, employment duration, and citizenship status. Broadly, these options fall under temporary work permits, long-term residence permits for work, and the EU Blue Card for highly qualified professionals.

These work authorizations involve more than just filling out a bunch of forms. The Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) is central to processing applications and assessing whether the job offer and employment conditions align with national labor standards. A misstep here can delay onboarding or even result in a rejected application.

Types of Swedish work visas

Sweden’s work visa process is designed to support a range of employment scenarios:

• Temporary work permit. Typically granted for up to two years, renewable, and tied to a specific employer and job title.
• Long-term residence permit for work. Allows individuals to stay beyond four years and opens the path to permanent residency.
• EU Blue Card. Reserved for highly skilled non-EU workers with a university degree and a job offer that meets certain salary thresholds.

The work visa process is different for EU/EEA citizens and those from a non-EU country. EU citizens generally don’t need a visa or work permit to live and work in Sweden, while non-EU citizens must undergo a structured application process.

Employers should consider the scope and length of the assignment when choosing the correct visa type. For example, the EU Blue Card may be suitable for a tech company wanting to relocate U.S.-based software engineers to Stockholm for the long term. At the same time, temporary permits are more appropriate for project-based roles.

Eligibility for a Swedish work visa

To be eligible for a Swedish work visa, applicants generally need:

• A valid passport
• A written job offer from a Swedish employer
• Employment terms that are at least on par with Swedish collective agreements or customary industry standards
• Proof that the role has been advertised in the EU/EEA for at least 10 days (to ensure local labor market consideration)

U.S. citizens looking to work in Sweden must follow the same steps as other non-EU nationals. One critical requirement: they must secure a job offer before applying for the permit. Without a confirmed employment contract, a work visa application will be denied.

The validity and strength of the employment offer are crucial. The offer must specify salary, duration, working hours, and insurance coverage—all aligned with Swedish labor laws.

How to apply for a Swedish work visa or permit

The application process typically involves the following steps:

1. A job offer is secured. The employer provides a formal offer, which must meet labor standards.
2. The employer initiates the application. The Swedish employer submits information about the job and the applicant through the Migration Agency’s portal.
3. The applicant completes the application. Once invited, the applicant uploads personal documents, such as a passport copy, employment contract, and insurance details.
4. Application review. The Swedish Migration Agency evaluates the application. Processing times vary but typically range from 1-3 months.
5. Visa decision. When the work visa is approved, the applicant receives a residence permit card and may travel to Sweden.

The Swedish Migration Agency allows applications to be submitted online, but in-person visits to a Swedish embassy or consulate may be necessary for biometric data collection. Check current wait times and processing updates directly on the Swedish Migration Agency’s site.

Requirements for a Swedish work permit

To obtain a valid Swedish work permit, the following conditions must be met:

• Written employment contract. Must include salary, job duties, insurance, and contract duration
• Salary standards. The wage must be at or above the industry average
• Collective agreements. Employers must adhere to any applicable union agreements, ensuring fair treatment and benefits

Sweden’s strong labor protections mean that even foreign nationals must receive equitable terms. Employers must also register the employee with Swedish tax authorities and ensure that occupational health and safety standards are met.

Failure to meet these conditions can lead to a rejected permit and may also subject the employer to audits or sanctions.

Frequently asked questions

• Is it easy to get a work visa in Sweden?
  Not necessarily. The process is clear but rigorous. Having a job offer that meets all legal standards is essential.
• How long does it take to get a work permit in Sweden?
  Processing times vary but usually take 1-3 months. Complex cases or incomplete applications may take longer.
• Can U.S. citizens work in Sweden without a job offer?
  No. A confirmed employment contract is mandatory for a work permit.
• What are the new rules for a work visa in Sweden?
  As of 2025, the minimum salary requirement for work permits has increased. The role must also now meet stricter job advertisement rules.
• How do you transition from a tourist visa to a work permit in Sweden?
  This is generally not allowed. Applicants must apply from outside Sweden unless they have legal residence there already.

How Velocity Global can help global employers with Swedish work authorizations

Successfully moving through Sweden’s work authorization process can be time-consuming and complicated. Velocity Global helps businesses simplify international hiring through our compliant Employer of Record (EOR) solution. By acting as the legal employer on behalf of companies, Velocity Global handles onboarding, payroll, benefits, and compliance—including the nuances of Swedish labor laws and visa requirements.

Whether building a team in Stockholm or relocating top talent from abroad, Velocity Global enables companies to expand without borders. For professionals and employers alike, understanding and respecting Sweden’s work authorization rules is more than just bureaucracy—it’s a crucial step toward building a successful and compliant global workforce.

Learn more about how Velocity Global can help organizations that want to expand and seek business opportunities in Sweden.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult an immigration lawyer or local legal advisor.