Certain People May Work in Sweden Without a Work Permit
Certain People May Work in Sweden Without a Work Permit
In general, citizens of non-EU/EEA countries who wish to work in Sweden must apply for a work permit. However, there are several exceptions where individuals can work in Sweden without one.
People Already Living in Sweden With a Residence Permit
Some individuals who already live in Sweden hold residence permits or other forms of authorization that include the right to work. These individuals do not need a separate work permit to begin employment. Employers seeking to hire someone already residing in Sweden should consult the guidelines for employing individuals who already have work rights in the country.
Persons With a Residence Permit to Look for Work or Start a Business
Those who have been granted residence permits to seek employment or explore opportunities for starting a business in Sweden are allowed to begin working before their work permit application is processed. This is valid only if the work permit application is submitted while the initial permit is still valid. This exemption applies specifically to the occupation and employer stated in the work permit application.
Occupational Groups That Do Not Need a Work Permit
Some occupational groups are permitted to work in Sweden for a limited time without needing a work permit. Whether or not someone qualifies under these exemptions is determined by the individual or their employer. The Swedish Migration Agency does not pre-assess these cases, and when there is any uncertainty, it is advisable to apply for a work permit. It is also important to remember that even if an individual is exempt from a work permit requirement, they may still need an entry visa depending on their nationality.
Specialists in an International Group
A specialist temporarily working in Sweden for less than one year as part of an international corporate group can work without a permit. If the assignment lasts longer than three months, a visitor’s permit is required. The specialist must be able to prove their qualifications and experience and show that they possess unique skills or an essential role within the group. This exemption does not apply to those covered by ICT regulations.
Employees in International Groups for Skills Development
Employees involved in internships, internal training, or other development programs within an international group may work in Sweden without a permit for up to three months within a twelve-month period.
Participants in Business Deals
Individuals who take part in training, testing, product deliveries, or other business-related tasks can work in Sweden without a permit for up to three months within a twelve-month period.
Diplomatic and Consular Officials and Their Families
Diplomatic and consular officials, their families, and accompanying staff can work in Sweden without a work permit. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs provides them with residence permits for the duration of their assignment, typically restricting employment to the diplomatic mission itself.
Installers or Technical Instructors in Crisis Situations
Technical specialists needed urgently for machine installations or repairs may work in Sweden without a permit for up to two months. The work must be the result of an unforeseen event requiring immediate attention. Planned or scheduled work does not qualify for this exemption.
Radio and TV Personnel on Temporary Assignment
Individuals working on assignments for Swedish broadcasting companies such as Sveriges Radio, SVT, UR, or TV4 may work for up to one month without a work permit from their date of entry.
Artists, Technicians, and Tour Staff Invited by an Established Arranger
These individuals may work in Sweden for up to 14 days in a twelve-month period without a permit, provided they are invited by an established organizer.
Professional Athletes and Officials
Athletes and sports officials participating in international competitions without a contract with a Swedish club may work in Sweden without a permit for up to three months in a year.
Train Personnel and Lorry Drivers
Drivers and other staff in international professional transport who are employed outside Sweden may work in the country without a permit. For stays exceeding three months, a visitor’s permit is required.
Tourist Coach Drivers and Staff
Drivers and personnel on tourist buses may work in Sweden for a maximum of three months without a work permit.
Temporary Representatives in Sweden
Sales representatives or other business delegates working temporarily in Sweden for foreign companies without a local office may work without a permit. However, for assignments exceeding three months, a visitor’s permit is needed.
Caregivers Accompanying Visitors
Caregivers accompanying someone visiting Sweden for care or recreation for up to three months may work in the country without a work permit for the same duration.
Researchers and Higher Education Teachers on Short Visits
Researchers and lecturers taking part in teaching or academic activities can work in Sweden without a work permit for up to three months during a twelve-month period.
Researchers Conducting Part of Their Work in Sweden
Researchers with permits from other EU countries can work in Sweden for up to 180 days within a 360-day period, provided they are affiliated with an approved Swedish research institution. Longer stays require a separate permit for research under extended-stay mobility rules.
Temporary Work in Construction Projects
Individuals temporarily working in construction in Sweden can do so without a permit if they reside in an EU/EEA country or Switzerland (without being a citizen), have permission to live and work there, and are employed by a company in that country operating temporarily in Sweden. Stays over three months require a visitor’s permit.
Journalists on Temporary Assignment
Foreign journalists reporting for non-Swedish news outlets may work in Sweden without a permit, provided the stay is under three months. A visitor’s permit is necessary for longer assignments.
Witnesses or Injured Parties in Criminal Investigations
Individuals granted residence permits due to their status as witnesses or victims in criminal investigations are allowed to work in Sweden without a work permit.
Participants in Relief Efforts
Those involved in disaster or emergency relief work in Sweden may work without a permit for the duration of the operation.
Mobility Studies in Higher Education
Students with residence permits for mobility studies linked to higher education programs in Sweden or other EU countries may work in Sweden without a work permit for up to 360 days.
Military Personnel and Civilians in Foreign Armed Forces
Members or civilian staff of foreign armed forces participating in international cooperation or crisis management in Sweden may work during their period of service without a permit if it’s under a formal agreement with Sweden.
Individuals Covered by the Defence Cooperation Agreement Between Sweden and the United States
Foreign suppliers involved in defense cooperation or individuals employed by them may work in Sweden without a work permit. In addition, close family members of U.S. Armed Forces personnel or civilian staff covered under this agreement are also exempt from requiring a work permit.