After Losing Work permit Alternative Residence Options
If you are a non-EU citizen in Sweden on a work permit and face the possibility of losing your job—such as in the event of Northvolt’s bankruptcy—it does not necessarily mean you must leave the country. Several alternative permit options may allow you to remain in Sweden, depending on your circumstances.
1. Residence Permit Based on Family Ties (Sambo or Family Reunification Permit)
You may be eligible for a residence permit if you have a partner, spouse, or close family member living in Sweden. This is commonly referred to as a sambo visa (for cohabiting partners) or a family reunification permit.
Requirements:
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, cohabitation records, or other documentation).
Financial support: Your family member must demonstrate sufficient income and suitable housing to support you.
Application fee: 2,000 SEK (1,000 SEK for children under 18), refundable if denied.
Processing Time:
Varies from a few months to over a year, depending on factors such as your relationship proof, your family member’s residency status, and your country of origin.
Can You Stay in Sweden While Waiting?
Generally, you must apply from outside Sweden, but exceptions exist if you already hold a valid permit. If you’ve had a work permit for at least six months, you may continue working while your application is processed.
2. Applying for a New Work Permit with a Different Employer
If you secure a new job, you can apply for a new work permit.
Key Rules:
First 24 months: Your permit is tied to your specific employer and role. Changing jobs requires a new permit application. After 24 months: You can switch employers in the same role without reapplying, but changing roles still requires a new permit.
Salary & Requirements: You must meet current salary thresholds and other conditions at the time of application.
Grace Period After Job Loss: You have three months from the end of your notice period to find a new job and apply for a permit. If your permit expires before the three-month period ends, you must apply for a new permit before expiration.
Processing Time: Depends on industry, application completeness, and workload at the Migration Agency.
3. Switching to a Study Permit If you plan to study in Sweden, you may apply for a study permit.
Requirements: Admission to an approved program (university, vocational school, or post-secondary folk high school). Proof of tuition payment (international student fees apply). Financial self-sufficiency (covering living expenses). Health insurance coverage. Can You Stay in Sweden While Applying? Undergraduate/graduate students: Must apply from abroad. PhD students/researchers: Can switch from a work permit without leaving Sweden.
Work Rights on a Study Permit:
You may work alongside studies to support yourself (though full-time study is required).
EU Citizens: Different rules apply (uppehållsrätt), allowing more flexibility if employment ends. Seek Legal Advice: Complex cases may require professional guidance from an immigration expert.