Why Sweden?
Sweden's Migrationsverket processes roughly 100,000 first-time residence permits per year. The work permit system is fully employer-led: any employer can sponsor any role provided the contract meets the salary floor (raised to SEK 28,480/month in November 2023 with further increases planned) and matches Swedish collective-agreement conditions. Family permits include full work rights and citizenship typically requires 5 years of residence.
How the immigration system works
All applications are filed online with Migrationsverket. Most non-EU workers enter via the standard work permit, the EU Blue Card, the ICT permit, the doctoral student permit, or the post-study job-search permit. EU/EEA citizens have free movement and don't need permits. Family members can be included on initial applications.
Who Sweden is best for
- Tech and engineering hires above the new salary floor
- Doctoral students and researchers
- Recent graduates of Swedish universities (12-month job search)
- Spouses and registered partners of permit holders
- Self-employed with a viable Swedish business + 2 years of capital