Visa Types

Sweden Work Visa Essentials

Apply to work in Sweden, extend a work permit or hire a foreign worker.

Sweden Flag

Key Points for Sweden Work Visa >>>

Do you need a visa to travel to Sweden?

To visit Sweden, Indians will need a Schengen visa.

Sweden visa application is made online or offline?

The visa application form and file submission, including all necessary documents, are completed offline in person at the VFS visa application center in India.

Do I need to give biometrics?

Yes, biometrics are required to obtain a visa.

Is there an interview required to obtain a visa?

No, an interview is not usually required to obtain a Sweden visa, but it may vary.
The embassy may interview you by phone or in person.

What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a work visa?

Varies based on the job offer and duration of employment.

What kind of visa will we acquire from Sweden?

It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport

Current Visa fees: (Updated on 01-10-2024)

Duration

Visa Fees In Euros

Study

90

The visa fee mentioned above can be paid either in cash or via debit/credit card.

VFS Service Charges:

Applicants submitting their applications at the Swedish Visa Application Centre are required to pay a service charge of 16 Euros. This fee includes Goods and Service Tax (SGST at 9% and CGST at 9%) and is payable in cash or through debit/credit cards.

Important Information:

  • Children aged 0 to 12 years on the date of application submission at the VFS center are exempt from biometric requirements.
  • The visa fee in Indian Rupees is calculated based on the current exchange rate.
  • Visa fees and service charges are non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied.
 

Step-by-step guide(In person at embassy or consulate-general)

Let us walk you through the process

To get a work permit in Sweden, you need to have a job offer. You must provide an employment contract as part of your application. Your employer should have advertised the job in Sweden, EU/EEA, and Switzerland for at least ten days before offering you the contract.

  1. Book an appointment: Before visiting the Swedish embassy or consulate-general, it is essential to contact them and schedule an appointment. Booking an appointment beforehand ensures that you have a dedicated time slot for submitting your work permit application.
  1. Fill in the application form: Obtain the application form for a work permit and carefully fill it out. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information as per the instructions given in the form. Remember to sign the form at the end to validate your application.
  1. Attach the required documents: Gather all the necessary documents as specified in the checklist provided. These may include a job offer (not applicable for professional athletes/coaches), an opinion from the relevant union (not required for professional athletes/coaches), and copies of the relevant passport pages.
  1. Submit the application form: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the required documents, submit them to a Swedish embassy or consulate-general in the country where you currently reside. If applying in your own country is not possible, find the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate-general in a neighboring country.
  1. Wait for an answer: After submitting your application, the Swedish embassy will review it thoroughly. They will notify you of their decision via email. Be patient during this waiting period, as the processing time may vary depending on the workload and complexity of applications.
  1. Receive the decision: Once the embassy has processed your application, you will receive an email informing you of the decision made regarding your work permit application. If your application is approved, you will be granted a work permit, allowing you to work in Sweden as per the terms and conditions specified in your permit.
 

Step-by-step guide (Online)

Let us walk you through the process

First, you need to secure a job offer from a Swedish employer, and both you and the employer agree on the terms of the employment contract.

The Swedish employer will initiate the work visa or residence permit application on your behalf through the Swedish Migration Agency’s e-services.

After the employer has started the application, you will receive an email notification from the Swedish Migration Agency. This email will contain instructions on how to proceed with the application.

You will need to gather and attach all the necessary documents to support your application. This may include your passport, employment contract, educational qualifications, and other relevant documents.

You will need to pay the required application fee and submit your application through the Swedish Migration Agency’s e-services platform. The fee can usually be paid online using a secure payment method.

Once your application is submitted, the Swedish Migration Agency will begin processing it. The processing time may vary, and you will receive updates on the status of your application through the e-services platform.

If required, you may be asked to visit a Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country to show your passport and provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.

If your application is approved, you will receive further instructions on how to provide the necessary information for your residence permit card. This may include a photograph and your fingerprints.

Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a decision on your work visa or residence permit application. If approved, you will be issued a residence permit, allowing you to live and work in Sweden for the specified duration.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU) and wish to work in Sweden, in most cases, you will need to obtain a work permit. When applying for a work visa to Belgium from India, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

  1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Sweden, with at least two blank visa pages.
  2. Visa Application Form: Complete and signed the Work visa application form for Sweden.
  3. Passport-sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specific requirements of the embassy/consulate.
  4. Job Offer Letter: An official job offer from a Swedish employer detailing your position, salary, and other terms of employment.
  5. Work Permit: if you are a citizen of any country that is not a member of the European Union (EU) and you want to work in Sweden, you will typically need to obtain a work permit. A work permit is an official authorization granted by the Swedish government that allows non-EU citizens to work legally in Sweden for a specified period.
  6. Employment Contract: A signed employment contract between you and your Swedish employer.
  7. Proof of Qualifications: Documents certifying your qualifications and work experience relevant to the job you will be performing in Sweden.
  8. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Provide bank statements or a sponsorship letter demonstrating that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Sweden, especially if your job does not cover all your expenses.
  9. Health Insurance: Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of your work permit.
  10. Medical Certificate: A medical certificate confirming that you are in good health and free from infectious diseases.
  11. Police Clearance Certificate: A police clearance certificate or a similar document indicating that you have no criminal record.
  12. Work Permit Processing Fee: Payment of the applicable work permit processing fee.
  13. Accommodation Details: Documentation of your accommodation arrangements in Sweden, such as a rental agreement or a letter of confirmation from your employer.
  14. Family Details: If applicable, documents related to your spouse and dependent children (e.g., marriage and birth certificates).
  15. No Objection Certificate (NOC): If you are currently employed, a letter from your current employer stating that they have no objections to your work in Sweden.
  16. Proof of Civil Status: Marriage certificate (if applicable), birth certificates of dependents (if applicable), etc.

For more information in detail: Click Here

  1. Employment Visa (Arbetsvisum):
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Letter of job offer from a Swedish employer specifying the position, duration, and terms of employment.
    • Employment contract detailing the terms and conditions of the job.
    • Proof of qualifications and work experience relevant to the job.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  2. Intra-Company Transfer Permit:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Letter from the Swedish employer confirming the transfer and the employee’s position.
    • Employment contract or secondment letter between the companies involved.
    • Proof of the company’s relationship (parent, subsidiary, or affiliate).
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  3. Seasonal Work Visa:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Letter from the Swedish employer offering temporary seasonal employment.
    • Employment contract specifying the period of work and conditions.
    • Proof of qualifications or experience relevant to the seasonal work.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  4. EU Blue Card:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Job offer or employment contract from a Swedish employer in a high-demand profession.
    • Proof of academic or professional qualifications required for the job.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  5. Researchers and Scientists:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Invitation letter from the Swedish host institution or university confirming the research or academic work.
    • Research project plan or academic collaboration details.
    • Proof of academic qualifications and relevant research experience.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  6. Working Holiday Visa:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Proof of citizenship from an eligible country.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment (if applicable).
  7. Self-Employed Work Permit:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Detailed business plan, including financial projections and market analysis.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to start and run the business in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.
  8. Family Members of Work Visa Holders:
    • Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
    • Visa application form duly filled and signed.
    • Passport-sized photographs meeting specific requirements.
    • Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc.).
    • Proof of the main work visa holder’s employment or residence permit in Sweden.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Sweden.
    • Health insurance coverage valid for the entire duration of the stay.
    • Medical certificate confirming good health and no infectious diseases.
    • Police clearance certificate or similar document indicating no criminal record.
    • Flight itinerary showing intended entry and exit dates.
    • Accommodation details in Sweden.
    • Visa processing fee payment.

Please note that this is a general checklist, and the specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and the type of work visa or permit you are applying for. Always refer to the official website of the Swedish Migration Agency or the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date and accurate information before applying.

VISA APPLICATION FORMS

Before submitting your visa application, please review the list of required documents carefully. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately, reducing the chances of your application being rejected due to incorrect or incomplete documents

Application for Swedish work permit, form 149011

Sweden National visa (Visa D) application form

Swedish Migration Agency Application Form

Swedish Migration Agency’s e-services Portal

Remember that this is a general outline, and the actual visa application form may have additional sections or require specific information depending on the type of Work visa you are applying for. It is crucial to refer to the official visa application form provided by the official website of Sweden Embassy or Consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

 

VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:

To get a work permit in Sweden, you need to have a job offer. You must provide an employment contract as part of your application. Your employer should have advertised the job in Sweden, EU/EEA, and Switzerland for at least ten days before offering you the contract.

The process for applying for a Sweden Work/Permit visa (At Embassy or Consulate) from India typically involves the following steps:

  1. Check Eligibility: Determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for a Sweden work visa. This may include having a valid job offer from a Swedish employer and meeting specific qualifications and requirements for the job.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all the necessary documents for your work visa application. These documents may include a valid passport, job contract or employment offer, educational certificates, proof of relevant work experience, and any other supporting documents required by the Swedish authorities.
  3. Contact the Swedish Embassy or Consulate: Get in touch with the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate in India. Inquire about the specific visa application process, required documents, and appointment procedures.
  4. Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate for submitting your visa application. Some embassies/consulates may require online booking, while others may have walk-in options.
  5. Complete the Application Form: Obtain the appropriate visa application form from the embassy/consulate or download it from their official website. Fill out the form accurately and honestly, following all the instructions provided.
  6. Attend the Appointment: On the scheduled date and time, visit the embassy or consulate with all your application documents. Hand in the completed application form and supporting documents to the visa officer.
  7. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required visa application fee as per the embassy’s guidelines. The fee amount may vary based on the type of work visa and other factors.
  8. Biometric Data Collection: During the visa application appointment, you may be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph.
  9. Wait for Processing: After submitting your application, the embassy or consulate will process your visa application. The processing time can vary, so be patient during this period.
  10. Await the Decision: You will be informed of the visa decision by the embassy/consulate via email or in-person. If your application is approved, you will be provided with a work visa to travel to Sweden for employment.
  11. Travel to Sweden: Once you receive the work visa, make travel arrangements to Sweden to begin your employment. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents with you when traveling.

The process for applying for a Sweden Work/Permit visa (Online) from India typically involves the following steps:

  1. Employment Contract: The first step is to secure a job offer from a Swedish employer and agree on the terms of the employment contract.
  2. Employer Initiates the Application: Your Swedish employer will initiate the work visa or residence permit application on your behalf through the Swedish Migration Agency’s e-services.
  3. Receive Email Notification: After your employer starts the application, you will receive an email from the Swedish Migration Agency with instructions on how to proceed.
  4. Attach Required Documents: Gather and attach all necessary documents to support your application, such as your passport, employment contract, educational qualifications, and other relevant papers.
  5. Pay and Submit Application: Pay the required application fee and submit your application through the Swedish Migration Agency’s e-services platform. Online payment methods are usually available for convenience.
  6. Application Processing: The Swedish Migration Agency will process your application. The processing time may vary, and you will receive updates through the e-services platform.
  7. Show Passport and Biometrics: If needed, visit a Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country to show your passport and provide biometric data like fingerprints.
  8. Information for Residence Permit Card: If your application is approved, you will receive instructions on providing information for your residence permit card, including a photograph and fingerprints.
  9. Receiving the Decision: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a decision on your work visa or residence permit application. If approved, you will be granted a residence permit to live and work in Sweden for the specified duration.

Information for how to apply work permit: Click Here

Information for how to extend your work permit: Click Here

  1. Employment Visa (Arbetsvisum): The Employment Visa, also known as Arbetsvisum, is designed for individuals who have received a job offer from a Swedish employer. This visa allows foreign workers to enter Sweden for the purpose of employment. To obtain an Employment Visa, applicants must secure a valid employment contract and meet specific criteria set by the Swedish Migration Agency.
  2. Intra-Company Transfer Permit: The Intra-Company Transfer Permit is intended for employees of multinational companies who are transferred to their company's branch or subsidiary in Sweden. This visa facilitates the transfer of skilled workers within the company's global network. The applicant must have been employed with the company for a certain period and meet other requirements to be eligible for this permit.
  3. Seasonal Work Visa: The Seasonal Work Visa is targeted at individuals who wish to work in Sweden for a limited period, typically in seasonal industries such as agriculture or tourism. Applicants must have a job offer from a Swedish employer and comply with the seasonal work regulations to qualify for this visa.
  4. EU Blue Card: The EU Blue Card is a special work permit designed for highly skilled non-EU/EEA workers seeking employment in Sweden. It grants its holders the right to work and reside in Sweden and other EU countries, with a pathway to long-term residency. Applicants must meet specific educational and professional qualifications to be eligible for the EU Blue Card.
  5. Researchers and Scientists: Sweden offers a visa category specifically for researchers and scientists who are coming to the country to conduct research or work on scientific projects. This visa allows researchers to work in Swedish research institutions or universities and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
  6. Working Holiday Visa: The Working Holiday Visa is designed for young individuals from certain countries with bilateral agreements with Sweden. It allows them to work and travel in Sweden for a specified period. The visa is primarily intended for cultural exchange and to provide young people with an opportunity to experience Swedish culture while gaining work experience.
  7. Self-Employed Work Permit: The Self-Employed Work Permit is for foreign nationals who wish to establish and operate their own business in Sweden. Applicants must present a detailed business plan and demonstrate that their business is economically viable and beneficial to Sweden's economy.
  8. Family Members of Work Visa Holders: Family members of individuals holding valid work visas or permits in Sweden may apply for family reunification visas. This allows them to join their spouse, partner, or parent who is already residing and working in Sweden. The visa permits them to live and work in Sweden during the validity of the family member's work visa or permit.

Note: It is important to note that the work permit visa application process and requirements may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances, the type of work permit being applied for, and the specific requirements set by the Sweden authorities. It is recommended to consult the official website of the Sweden Embassy or Consulate in India or seek assistance from the visa application center for the most accurate and up-to-date information.