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Sweden &

Tanzania

Work permit for employees and citizens of non-EU countries

If you are a citizen of a non-EU country and want to work in Sweden, you will probably need to obtain a work permit.

There are diffrent type of work permit in Sweden. If you are unsure which work permit you should apply for, visit the Swedish Migration Agency’s application guide.

Swedish Migration Agency’s application guide

Work permit for employees and citizens of non-EU countries

You must have been offered a job before you can obtain a work permit. You cannot enter Sweden until the permit has been granted. You cannot obtain a work permit to go to Sweden and look for a job. Detailed information regarding rules, regulations and criteria’s to obtain a work permit can be found on the Swedish Migration Agency.  

Swedish Migration Agency

Employment for less than three months

For employment that lasts less than three months, citizens of certain countries must have both a work permit and a visa. Detailed information about visas can be found here.

Countries whose citizens need an entry visa when working less than three months.

Residence permits for the self-employed

If you plan to work for a period longer than 3 months to start up or run your own business or become a part owner of a company, you must have a residence permit.  You cannot enter Sweden until the permit has been granted. As self-employed you are not allowed to take employment with any employer. You can find more information on rules and regulations on the Swedish Migration Agency's webpage.

Swedish Migrations Agency

Applying

The easiest way to apply for a residence permit is to apply online over the internet. An online application goes directly to the Swedish Migration Agency.

Swedish Migration Agency

If you are still unable or do not want to apply online, you can submit an application at the Swedish Embassy.

Last updated 24 Aug 2023, 11.19 AM