Sweden employee work permit in 2026
For most citizens outside the EU/EEA who are employed in Sweden, the ordinary employee route is the main work-permit framework.
From 1 June 2026, the general salary requirement is 90% of the median salary in Sweden at the time of application. Since 16 June 2026, the current threshold is SEK 34,470 per month, based on a median salary of SEK 38,300. Pay and other employment conditions must also be at least in line with Swedish collective agreements or common practice.
Certain occupations and groups are exempt from the 90% threshold and instead use a 75% of median salary floor. The current exemption list should be checked at the time of application.
The employer must arrange health, life, occupational-injury and occupational-pension insurance. If employment will last no more than one year, the applicant also needs comprehensive health insurance.
A permit can normally be granted for up to two years, limited by the employment contract and passport. A new employer, profession or materially changed duties generally requires a new work-permit application.
Since 1 June 2026, ordinary permits cannot be granted for work as a personal assistant (SSYK 5343) or forest berry picker in subgroup 9210.
Official guidance: Migrationsverket employee permits and salary requirements.
Related: EU Blue Card, permanent residence, family immigration, Sweden hub.
Official and supporting sources
- Official Sweden source 1government · accessed 2026-09-21
- Official Sweden source 2government · accessed 2026-09-21