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Work Permits and Visas

Guidance on obtaining the necessary permits and visas to legally work in Sweden.

Sections

1. Overview of Work Permits and Visas in Sweden

Sweden, including the city of Vasteras, requires non-EU/EEA citizens to obtain a work permit to legally work in the country. EU/EEA citizens do not need a work permit but must register their right of residence if staying for more than three months. The Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) is the primary authority handling work permits and visas.


2. Types of Work Permits and Visas

Here are the main categories of permits and visas relevant to working in Vasteras:

A. Work Permit

  • For non-EU/EEA citizens who have secured a job offer in Sweden.
  • The employer must meet specific requirements, such as offering a salary and employment terms that comply with Swedish collective agreements.

B. EU Blue Card

  • For highly skilled workers with a university degree or equivalent professional experience.
  • Requires a higher salary threshold than a standard work permit.

C. Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit

  • For employees transferring within the same company to a branch in Sweden.

D. Residence Permit for Self-Employment

  • For individuals planning to start or run a business in Sweden.

E. Job Seeker Visa

  • For recent graduates or researchers from Swedish universities who wish to stay and look for work.

F. Seasonal Work Permit

  • For temporary work in industries like agriculture or tourism.

G. Family Member Residence Permit

  • For family members of someone with a valid work permit in Sweden.

3. Costs

The application fees for work permits and visas are as follows (as of 2023):

  • Work Permit: SEK 2,000 (approx. €170)
  • EU Blue Card: SEK 2,000
  • Residence Permit for Self-Employment: SEK 2,000
  • Family Member Residence Permit: SEK 1,500 (approx. €130) per adult, SEK 750 (approx. €65) per child.
  • Job Seeker Visa: SEK 2,000

Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.


4. Application Procedures

The process for obtaining a work permit or visa involves several steps:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

  • You must have a job offer from an employer in Sweden before applying for a work permit.
  • The employer must advertise the job in the EU/EEA for at least 10 days before offering it to a non-EU/EEA citizen.

Step 2: Employer Initiates the Application

  • The employer submits the initial application to the Swedish Migration Agency, providing details about the job, salary, and working conditions.

Step 3: Applicant Completes the Application

  • Once the employer has submitted their part, you will receive an email to complete your portion of the application online.
  • You will need to upload the required documents (see below).

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  • Pay the fee online when submitting your application.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

  • The Swedish Migration Agency will process your application and notify you of the decision.

Step 6: Obtain a Residence Permit Card

  • If approved, you will need to visit a Swedish embassy or consulate to provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints) for your residence permit card.

Step 7: Travel to Sweden

  • Once you receive your residence permit card, you can travel to Sweden and start working.

5. Required Documentation

The documents required for a work permit or visa application include:

For Work Permit Applications:

  1. A valid passport (copy of all pages, including personal data and visas).
  2. Job offer letter or employment contract.
  3. Proof of salary and employment terms meeting Swedish standards.
  4. Proof of health insurance (if applicable).
  5. Educational qualifications (if required for the job).
  6. Application fee receipt.

For Self-Employment:

  1. Business plan.
  2. Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during the first two years.
  3. Financial statements and proof of ownership (if applicable).
  4. Market analysis and expected profitability.

For Family Members:

  1. Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
  2. Copy of the work permit holder’s residence permit.
  3. Valid passports for all family members.

6. Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and the completeness of your application:

  • Work Permit: 1–3 months (can take longer if additional information is required).
  • EU Blue Card: 1–3 months.
  • Residence Permit for Self-Employment: 3–6 months.
  • Family Member Residence Permit: 6–12 months.

Note: Applications submitted online are typically processed faster than paper applications.


7. Local Considerations in Vasteras

Vasteras is a mid-sized city with a strong industrial and technology sector, making it an attractive destination for professionals in engineering, IT, and manufacturing. Here are some local resources and tips:

A. Key Industries in Vasteras

  • ABB Group: A global leader in robotics and automation, headquartered in Vasteras.
  • Energy and Environment: Vasteras is a hub for sustainable energy solutions.
  • Technology and Innovation: The city has a growing tech scene, with opportunities for skilled workers.

B. Local Support Services

  • Vasteras Municipality (Västerås Stad): Offers integration services, language courses (Swedish for Immigrants - SFI), and job-seeking assistance.
  • Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service): Provides job listings, career counseling, and support for newcomers.
  • International Citizen Hub: A resource for expats in Vasteras, offering guidance on settling in, finding work, and navigating Swedish bureaucracy.

C. Housing in Vasteras

  • Finding housing can be competitive. Start your search early through platforms like Blocket, Bostad Västerås, or local Facebook groups.

D. Language

  • While many Swedes speak English fluently, learning Swedish can significantly improve your job prospects and integration into the community. Free Swedish language courses (SFI) are available for immigrants.

8. Additional Tips

  • Tax Registration: Once you arrive in Vasteras, register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain a personal identity number (personnummer). This is essential for accessing healthcare, opening a bank account, and more.
  • Work Culture: Swedish workplaces value equality, punctuality, and work-life balance. Familiarize yourself with these cultural norms to adapt smoothly.
  • Networking: Join local professional groups or attend events in Vasteras to expand your network and find job opportunities.


By following this guide, you should have a clear understanding of the work permit and visa process for Vasteras, Sweden. If you have further questions or need assistance with specific steps, feel free to ask!