Work permits for specialists in Sweden – how it works in 2026

Who needs a work permit?

Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland need a work permit to work in Sweden. Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can start working directly.

Requirements for the job and the employer

• Salary of at least 90% of the median salary – currently SEK 34,470 per month.
• Terms on par with Swedish collective agreements or practice in the occupation or industry.
• Insurance – health, life, occupational injury and occupational pension – must be in place when employment starts. Since 1 June 2026, comprehensive health insurance is also required for anyone staying in Sweden for one year or less.
• Advertising of the position for at least ten days in Sweden and within the EU/EEA and Switzerland, for example via the Swedish Public Employment Service and EURES.
• The relevant trade union must be given the opportunity to comment on the employment terms.
• An employment contract signed by both parties.

Since 1 June 2026, the Migration Agency can also reject an application due to shortcomings on the employer’s side, such as certain offences or sanctions.

Step by step

1. Advertise the positionThe position is advertised for at least ten days so that everyone in Sweden, the EU/EEA and Switzerland can apply.
2. Offer and employment contractYou and the candidate sign an employment contract with a salary and terms that meet the requirements.
3. InsuranceThe employer takes out the required insurance so that it applies from the first working day.
4. The employer starts the applicationThe application is initiated by the employer in the Migration Agency’s e-service, with details of the job.
5. The employee completes the applicationThe candidate receives a link, fills in their details and submits the application.
6. Decision and startOnce a decision is made, the person can travel and start working. New since 2026: the employer must notify the Migration Agency if employment has not started within four months.

EU Blue Card for highly qualified specialists

For highly qualified specialists, an EU Blue Card can be an alternative. It requires highly qualified employment, a university degree equivalent to at least 180 higher education credits or five years of relevant professional experience, and a salary of at least SEK 53,625 per month. Since 1 June 2026, an EU Blue Card can be granted for up to four years at a time.

How Co-Worker helps

We have worked with international placements in the Nordics since 2007. We find the right specialist globally and help with the whole process – work permit application, insurance, relocation and housing. If you prefer not to be the employer yourselves, the person can be employed by us and work with you as a consultant, or via Employer of Record.

Read more about international recruitment.