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3 ways to enter

Sweden visas

Sweden work visa

EU single market citizens can work in Sweden without a visa. Sweden is also listed as allowing all short-stay visa-free nationals to work during their visa-free stay.

Ways to get a Sweden work visa

  2. Work during a visa-free short stay

    No visa needed

    Sweden permits all nationals on the short-stay visa-free list to work during their visa-free stay.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days in any 180-day period under the general short-stay rule.

  3. Temporary work for the same employer under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    Non-EU single market nationals employed in the EU single market may work temporarily in another member country for the same employer under certain conditions.

    Stay
    Temporary work; no specific duration is given.

Who needs it

Workers who do not qualify for an exemption need the relevant permission. Detailed Swedish work visa rules are not specified.

Who doesn't

EU single market citizens can enter, live and work without a visa. Sweden permits all nationals on the short-stay visa-free list to work during that stay.

Good to know

  • Work during a visa-free short stay remains subject to the short-stay time limit.
  • Stays over 90 days generally require long-stay permission unless a separate right or exemption applies.
  • The short-stay work statement does not give detailed Swedish employment or permit conditions.
  • A separate working holiday option is described below.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Sweden?

Workers who do not qualify for an exemption need the relevant permission. Detailed Swedish work visa rules are not specified. EU single market citizens can enter, live and work without a visa. Sweden permits all nationals on the short-stay visa-free list to work during that stay.

What are the ways to get a work visa for Sweden?

There are 3 options: Work through freedom of movement (no visa at all); Work during a visa-free short stay (no visa at all); Temporary work for the same employer under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit).

Who can go to Sweden without a work visa?

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can work in Sweden without a visa. Sweden permits all nationals on the short-stay visa-free list to work during their visa-free stay.

What rules do I have to follow on a Sweden work visa?

Work during a visa-free short stay remains subject to the short-stay time limit. Stays over 90 days generally require long-stay permission unless a separate right or exemption applies.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for Sweden?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Sweden visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for Sweden be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Sweden work visa rules?

On Sweden's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in Sweden?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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