Working in Sweden — frequently asked questions
The work permit and the salary requirement, changing employer, the path to permanent residence, and the rules for EU and Nordic citizens.
Questions in this category
Who needs a work permit to work in Sweden and who doesn't?
The general rule is that you need a work permit if you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. You normally don't if you are an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, hold permanent residence, or are a family member of a work-permit holder. Check your situation with Migrationsverket.
What is the current minimum salary for a Swedish work permit (lönekrav)?
Since the new rules on 1 June 2026, the monthly salary must be at least 90% of Sweden's median wage when you apply (up from 80%). With the median wage in force from 16 June 2026 the threshold is about SEK 34,470/month. The figure is recomputed when SCB updates the median — check the current level with Migrationsverket.
Can I change employer or job while I hold a work permit?
During your first work-permit period you must apply for a new permit if you change employer, occupation, or duties. After the permit has been extended (after roughly two years of work) you can usually change employer within the same occupation without a new application — but changing occupation always needs a new permit. Check the current rules with Migrationsverket.
How long until I can get permanent residence as a worker?
A worker can apply for a permanent residence permit after having held a work permit and worked in Sweden for at least 4 years within the last 7 years. You apply in connection with an extension application and must be able to support yourself through employment or your own business. Qualifying periods can change — check with Migrationsverket.
Do EU/EES and Nordic citizens need a permit to live and work in Sweden?
No. EU/EES citizens have a right of residence and may live, work, run a business or study in Sweden without a residence permit. They can stay up to 3 months with valid ID; longer stays require working, studying or being self-sufficient. Nordic citizens may move here freely without registering. Check the details with Migrationsverket.
How do I get a personnummer, and what is the residence permit card (UT-kort)?
If you move to Sweden and will live here at least 1 year, you register your move with Skatteverket to be entered in the population register; on first registration you get a personnummer. For shorter stays you may instead get a coordination number. Non-EU/EES people with a residence permit get a UT-kort with photo and fingerprints. Check current times with Migrationsverket and Skatteverket.
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Sources
Official details can change. Always confirm what applies to your own case directly with the responsible authority.
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