How to Apply for a Work Permit in Sweden in 2026: Requirements & Process

Sweden is a high-quality, innovation-driven country that also employs strong worker protections, competitive salaries, and a welcoming culture for foreign talent. If you are a non-EU/EEA/ Nordic citizen who has secured a job in Sweden, then you are probably searching for how to apply for a Work Permit in Sweden.

This article will walk you through the Sweden Work Permit requirements, the role of employers, the application process, fees, and more details necessary for your understanding to how to apply for a Work Permit in Sweden.

How to Apply for a Work Permit in Sweden in 2026?

If you are an EU/EEA/Nordic citizen, you do not need to apply for a work permit in Sweden. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a work permit in Sweden. The process includes the following steps:

Step 1: Get an Employment Offer

You must have a signed employment contract that outlines details such as salary, job title, working hours, start date, and the duration of your employment (if it is a fixed-term job offer). Most importantly, the employer must be established in Sweden

Step 2: Employer Needs to Advertise the Job

As part of the ‘labour market test’, the employer advertises the vacancy in Sweden and within the EU/EEA and Switzerland for at least 10 days before the contract is entered into. Also, it is advised to keep ad reference proof for further requirements.

Step 3: Employer would start the application process in the Migration Agency e-Service

The employer will proceed to submit the employment details and further invite the chosen employee by email to continue with the application process.

Step 4: Completing and Submitting the Online Application by the Employee 

Using the emailed link, you (employee) would need to fill in the details and upload the necessary documents, accepting the employer’s declared conditions. During this step, it is crucial to recheck that the stated salary terms match your contract.

Step 5: Payment of Application Fees 

You will need to proceed with the application fee payment for successfully submitting the application, and after which, you might also need to present your passport at a Swedish embassy or consulate

Step 6: Processing of your application

The Swedish Migration Agency would review your application and if required, might request further details or information. The visa processing time for Sweden could range from as long as 4 months (which varies for individual cases)

Step 7: Receive Your Residence Permit Card and Move to Sweden

Once your application is processed and you receive approval, you will receive detailed instructions on how to get the residence permit card (biometrics), upon which you can enter Sweden and start working.

Learn more about the Work Life Balance in Sweden

Eligibility Criteria for the Sweden Work Permit for Indians

Indian citizens aiming to apply for the Swedish work permit in 2025-26 would need to meet the following eligibility criteria, including:

• Must have an Indian passport
• Must have a valid job offer from a Swedish employer
• Must ensure that the job aligns with Sweden's employment standards
• Must receive a salary that meets or exceeds Sweden's minimum thresholds
• Must have relevant educational qualifications and or work experience 
• Must work for an employer that provides health, life, employment, and pension insurance to employees 
• Must have a clean criminal record 

Here are the 10 Important Things to Know Before Moving to Sweden

Documents Required to Apply for a Work Permit in Sweden

Now that you have learned about the detailed process of how to apply for a work permit in Sweden, we have also listed the documents that applicants would need to submit when applying from India:

• Valid Indian passport
• Job offer or employment contract from a Swedish employer
• Salary proof meeting Sweden’s minimum eligibility requirements
• Proof of relevant work experience, like a work experience certificate, etc (if applicable)
• Proof of insurance coverage provided by the employer
• Completed and duly signed work permit application form 
• Passport-sized photographs 
• Medical clearance certificate 
• Police clearance and verification report
• Proof of payment of the Swedish work permit application fees

Types of Work Permits in Sweden

There are different types of work permits in Sweden that you can choose to apply for based on their individual requirements. These include:

Explore the Sweden Visa Types & Requirements for Indians

Sweden Work Permit Application Fees 2026

Based on the type of Swedish Work Permit, you would need to pay the applicable application fee. The current fees for applying for a work permit in Sweden from Indian include:

Explore Your Opportunities in Sweden With GetGIS Assistance

Sweden offers transparent, rule-based routes for employers to bring foreign skilled workers while emphasising labour market protection. Simultaneously, prospective employees can consider exploring these opportunities in Sweden with a Sweden Job Seeker Visa. 

To ensure a smooth process, applicants are encouraged to seek guidance from trusted immigration experts like GetGIS. Our team can help you navigate your job search in Sweden, along with providing end-to-end guidance with the visa application process, immigration eligibility checks, and more to ensure your safe immigration and Integration into Sweden

Book Your Free Consultation

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