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Working in Sweden

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.

Updated

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, the general rule is that you need a work permit to work in Sweden. But several groups are exempt:

  • EU/EEA citizens — who work under free movement and the right of residence.
  • Swiss citizens.
  • People who hold a permanent residence permit.
  • Family members of a person who holds a work permit.
  • Nordic citizens may live and work freely without registering with Migrationsverket.
  • Some asylum seekers may work while their case is decided if they hold an exemption from the work-permit requirement (AT-UND).

Which groups are exempt, and on what conditions, can change. Confirm what applies to your situation with Migrationsverket, and see our guide to working in Sweden.

Sources

Official details can change. Always confirm what applies to your own case directly with the responsible authority.

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