Sweden Work Permit for Indian : Guide, Process & More 2025

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Oct 02,2025

How to Get a Sweden Work Permit for Indian Citizens in 2025? - TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
Free last minute checklist

From excellent career opportunities to ease of standard of living, the introduction of the work permit for Indian immigrants in Sweden is making the Sweden work permit for Indian citizens a hot topic. The Sweden Work Permit visa for Indian nationals allows you to access one of the most progressive cultures in Europe when it comes to a working mindset, with an excellent work-life balance and benefits. Understanding Sweden work permit visa requirements for indian is essential for a successful visa application for visa applicants, particularly with some changes in the policy that are to be implemented in 2025, which affect the salary requirements and visa processing.

 

How to Get a Sweden Work Permit for Indian Citizens in 2025?

low angle photo of a building;  in 2025?  TerraTern

Sweden work permit for indian citizens in 2025 is as follows. 

  • Secure Employment Contract: Get a confirmed employment offer from a Swedish employer responsible for starting the application process by submitting an "offer of employment" form to the Swedish Migration Agency, with the condition that the position will meet the sweden work permit visa requirements for indian applicants, including a minimum salary of SEK 29,680 monthly.

  • Complete Online Application: Have an email link from the employer for submission. Get a sweden work permit pending filling the comprehensive work permit application form on the Swedish Migration Agency's online portal (migrationsverket.se, provide all of the personal data, and upload necessary documents for the sweden work permit for indian citizens.

  • Submit Required Documentation: Prepare and submit the required documents, including a valid indian passport, signed employment contract, educational certificates with apostille attestation, police clearance certificate, medical clearance, and proof of insurance coverage provided by the employer, meeting sweden work permit visa for indian standards.

  • Pay Application Fees: Complete the application fee payments of SEK 2200 at the online portal or VFS Global centers in major Indian cities (New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Ahmedabad). Additional service charges of approximately [?]1200 - [?]1500

  • Attend Biometric Appointment: Visit the designated Swedish embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center for biometric data collection, including any analysis of fingerprints and photograph, presentation of original documents for verification as for sweden work permit visa for indian processing requirements, and an original passport for indian processing requirements.

  • Monitor Application Status: Since the migration is done (we don't know when the result will be given, you can check when your application becomes a decision) you can monitor your application through the Swedish Migration Agency Online Tracking System or through VFS Global Portal processing time - 52-116 days (average 52 days) - collect a decision from the designated centre. 

Also Read: Top 9 Jobs in Sweden For Indians You Need to Know 

What Are the Updated Sweden Work Permit Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens?

Sweden Work Permit Visa Requirements for indian citizens have been extensively revised in 2025, and there are new eligibility standards for those looking to obtain their work permit. The sweeping standards ensure that sweden work permit for indian professionals adheres to standards set by the Swedish working marketplace while ensuring equitable position practices. These new changes in the process of sweden work permit visa for indian nationals are key to a successful application.

What Is the New Minimum Salary Requirement for Sweden Work Permits?

The Number of Salary Threshold Limits for Working Permits was raised significantly, including the following significant amendments: 

  1. Current Min Salary: SEK 28 480 per month (increased from SEK 29 680)

  2. Calculation Basis: 80% of Sweden's updated median salary 37 100 SEK

  3. Future Growth: Grow from SEK 37,100 to June 2025, estimated to SEK 37,100.

  4. Application Date Impact: New threshold for application date of learning on June 17, 202,5, or later

  5. Grace Period: Existing permit holders have until June 2026 for renewals under previous thresholds

Which Documents Do Indian Citizens Need for Sweden Work Permit Applications?

Indian applicants need to prepare thorough documentation as per specific attestations: 

  1. Identity Documents: Valid Indian passport with 6+ months validity, Passport-sized photographs

  2. GDPR Case: employment proof: BA - A - 9 EPA: employment contract - location provided according to Swedish collective agreement requirements

  3. Educational Qualifications: Degree & mark sheets, professional qualification apostille attestation from MEA India

  4. Background Verification: Police clearance certificate from Indian authorities (with apostille stamp)

  5. Experiential Evaluation of Work Experience: correctly written letters on work experience and professional references.

What Are the Employer Responsibilities for Hiring Indian Workers in Sweden?

Proper legislation is in place, governing the employers' responsibilities while sponsoring Indian employees: 

  1. Labor Market Test: The position must be advertised in Sweden and in the UC-EU/EEA/Switzerland area for at least 10 business days before offering the position to candidates from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland.

  2. Enforcement of Employment Contracts: Ensure terms comply with Swedish collective agreements or industry practices.

  3. Insurance Cover: Covers all persons, including health, life, employment, and pension insurance

  4. Starting with an Application: The crime victim (see the form) submits the "offer of employment" form to the Swedish Migration Agency before the employee applies for the position.

  5. Salary: Ensure a monthly compensation level is reached that exceeds the SEK 29,680 threshold.

How Does the Sweden Work Permit Application Process Work for Indians?

A red building witha  small cafe at the bottom; Sweden Work Permit Application Process Work for Indians - TerraTern

The application process for a Sweden work permit for Indian citizens is methodical and entails several steps, starting from finding employment to receiving the eliminación of work permit. Carefully analyzing every stage prepares the way for a seamless application experience and helps avoid common bottlenecks that could potentially prolong processing time. 

  1. Phase 1: Pre-Applicant Requirements (1-2 weeks)

Secure Employment Contract: The first condition is that Indian applicants must secure a confirmed job offer from a Swedish employer who adheres to all applicable legal statutes. The employer conducts labour market testing by posting the position on the Swedish Public Employment Service and EURES for precisely 10 days before offering the position to a non-internal EU candidate.

  1. Phase 2: Submission of Application Online (1-2 Weeks)

Receive Application Link: After the employer has completed the form, the applicant from India will receive a link via email, through which the candidate can apply online with the Swedish Migration Agency (migrationsverket.se) to fill out their particulars and upload the necessary documents.

  1.  Document Submission and Payment: Applicants must submit all required documents, including copies of their passports, employment agreements, educational certificates with apostille authentication, police clearance certificates, and medical certificates. A payment of SEK 2,200 as an application fee is required at this stage.

  2. Phase 3: Biometric Authentication (1-2 weeks).

Embassy Appointment: The Embassies and Consulates of Sweden in India, located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad, offer biometric data capturing and document verification services with Original Documents.

  1. Phase 4: Processing and Decision (8 - 16 weeks)

Application Review: The Swedish Migration Agency provides complete application processing in under a year (52-116 days on average, with a median time of 52 days). Additionally, online applications are processed faster than paper applications, which can take 6-12 months.

Where Can Indian Citizens Apply for Sweden Work Permits?

Indian citizens applying for sweden work permit for indian are as follows: 

  • Online Application Portal: Indian clients can directly apply for working in Sweden through the Sweden work permit for indian applications online from the official website of the Swedish Migration Agency (migrationsverket.se), following an invitation from the employer who started the process via email.

  • VFS Global Centers: Across India, there are nine VFS Global application centres - New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad - where sweden work permit visa for indian can submit the application, provide biometrics, and collect approved permits with extra service fees of about [?]1,200-[?]1,500.

How Long Does Sweden Work Permit Processing Take for Indian Applicants?

Sweden work permit processing time for indian applicants is as follows:.

  • Standard Processing Time: For first-time Swedish work permit visa applications, the processing time for sweden work permit visa for indian nationals is on average 52 - 14 days ( Median 52 days), with complete applications prioritized for quicker processing by the Swedish Immigration Authority.

  • Application Tracking: The applicants who apply for sweden work permit visa from India can track their application status in the Swedish Migration Agency's "My Pages" online tracking system or the VFS Global portal and get notifications through email about essential stages of application processing.

What Is the Labor Market Testing Requirement for Swedish Employers?

The labour market testing requirement for Swedish employers is as follows:

  • 10-Day Advertisement Rule: Swedish employers shall list the position on the official Swedish Public Employment Service jobs bank and the EURES European job portal for at least 10 days before offering it, giving Swedish workers an equal chance to apply for the Sweden work permit for Indians position.

  • Compliance Documentation: Publication proof for each advertisement, accompanied by publication dates and Advertisement ID number, must be safely kept by the Employers for submission in the "Offer of Employment" form to Swedish Migration Agency within the authenticity of advertisements for up to 6 months for multiple similar positions for sweden work permit visa for indian professionals. 

Also Read: Sweden Increases Foreign Workers' Salary to 2.25 Lakhs

 

9541866994

What Are the Different Types of Sweden Work Permits Available for Indians?

Sweden offers several paths for Indian professionals seeking employment opportunities, each with its own unique set of circumstances and career needs. Understanding these various categories of permits helps you, as an applicant, select the best fit for your professional goals and qualifications. 

  • General Work Permit for Employees: The standard citizenship permit sweden for indian is still the most sought-after one by professionals who are employed. This work permit is accompanied by a guaranteed employment contract from a Swedish employer, commencing with a monthly income of at least SEK 29,680 (Brazil, starting from June 2025). It includes comprehensive insurance coverage for health, life, employment, and pension benefits.

  • Self-Employment Work Permit: Indian business people can apply for a self-employment work permit visa, which is suitable for Indian business owners. This visa requires careful preparation of a business plan, demonstrating sufficient funds for running the business and maintaining oneself, and proving relevant business experience.. 

  • Seasonal Work Permit: Seasonal work offers regular employment under short-term professional contracts in agriculture, tourism, and hospitality, typically lasting up to six months per year. These permits have simplified the application process, require mandatory employer sponsorship, and meet the basic requirements for work performed in Sweden, such as minimum wage and insurance coverage, for Indian applicants seeking a Swedish work permit visa.

How Does the Sweden Job Seeker Visa Work for Indian Professionals? 

Sweden job seeker visa acts as an alternate route for skilled Indian professionals to gain job opportunities within Sweden and then attain a permanent work permit. This visa allows for stays in Sweden of 3-9 months (renewable once) for work search activities. 

  • Eligibility Requirements: It is necessary to hold a degree or equivalent qualifications from a university-level institution, have professional experience in the field, and be financially self-sustaining for approximately SEK 20,000-25,000 per month during the search period. A good command of English or Swedish is exceptionally favourable for employment at the job application stage.

  • Transition Process: After obtaining an appropriate income-work seeker visa, holders can immediately proceed to standard working permits, without leaving Sweden, if their job offer meets the standard requirements regarding income (minimum SEK 29,680) and the employer complies with labour market testing. 

What Is the Sweden EU Blue Card, and Can Indians Apply?

The EU Blue Card is known as the premier Swedish work permit for Indian highly skilled professionals that provides increased benefits and streamlined routes to residency. In addition to the Blue Card program, Indians who meet the high-skill conditions are eligible for the European Union Blue Card from Sweden. 

  • Qualification Requirements: Applicants must hold a university degree or have at least 5 years of professional experience in specialized fields. The brewery's employment offer includes a salary of at least 1.5 times the national average (approximately SEK 44,520 per month). Additionally, a first-class paper apostille, attestation, and verification of educational credentials are required.

  • Enhanced Benefits: Accelerated Permanent residency (typically 5 years, as opposed to 8 years for standard), Simplified intra-EU mobility to work in other European Union countries, Preferential family reunification, Processes Social security portability: most beneficial Sweden work permit visa for Indian Professionals with more extended career plans in the EU.

What Are the Costs and Fees for Sweden Work Permit Applications from India?

Macbook air; Costs and Fees for Sweden Work Permit Applications from India - TerraTern

Understanding the whole cost structure for sweden work permit for indian citizens is very important for financial planning and budgeting. The overall expenses go beyond mere application fees and include various service fees, document preparation fees, and additional requirements, which may not be very beneficial to the general investment market for a successful application submission.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Sweden Work Permit from India?

Sweden work permit visa for indian requires various components of fees with varying amounts according to the means by which they apply and any additional services to be provided. Here's a detailed breakdown of all of the associated costs: 

Category of Cost

SEK Amount

Amount  INR

Details

Government Application Fee

SEK 2,200 

18,000 - 19,000

Mandatory fee paid to the Swedish Migration Agency for sweden work permit for indian processing

VFS Global Service Fee

1,200-1,500 

Biometric Collection and dealing of documents at VFS centers at various locations in India

Document Translation

2,000-5,000 

Professional translation of Educational Certificates and Work Experience documents

Apostille Attestation

USD 3,000-8,000 

Apostille attestation from MEA for educational certificates, police clearance, and other public notaries

Police Clearance Certificate

500 - 1,000

A backup for verification of background from authorities in India is required for a police clearance certificate.

Medical Examination 

2000 4000 

Health checkup and certificates as per the sweden work permit visa requirements for india

Embassy/VFS Trip

-

(2,000 - 10,000) 

Travel to the biometrics residence appointment, including transportation and accommodation (to be determined based on location).

Total Estimated Cost 

SEK 2200

28,700 - 46,500

Complete cost range for sweden work permit visa for indian applications

 Also Read: Top 10 High-Paying Jobs in Sweden: Latest Insights: 

How Can Indian Citizens Find Jobs in Sweden to Get Work Permits? 

Indian citizens can obtain a work permit in Sweden to apply for jobs at Swedavia. 

  • Jobs Websites and Portals: Indians can make the most of websites like Arbetsformedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service), The Local Sweden, StepStone, LinkedIn Sweden, and international job portals and websites like Sweden Work Permit for indian placement, as many Swedish employers use these to recruit global talent.

  • Industry Specific Networking: Participate in Swedish-based professional associations, virtual Nordic job fair, connect with the Indian offices of Swedish companies, and engage with alumni networks of Swedish universities, and make connections that can help in obtaining sweden work permit visa for indian opportunities through referral and insider information.

Which Industries in Sweden Are Most Open to Hiring Indian Workers?

 Industries in Sweden that are most open to hiring Indians are: 

  • Technology and IT Sector: The booming tech industry of Sweden, particularly the tech companies such as Spotify, Klarna, King, etc, aggressively hire Indian software or software developers, data scientists, cyber security professionals, and IT consultants, with many of them providing a straight sweden work permit for indian sponsorship due to massive skill shortage for these fields.

  • Healthcare and Life Sciences: Swedish Healthcare Systems are facing a shortage of healthcare staff, which leads to the possibility of work for Indian Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, Medical Researchers, etc., who are willing to complete a bridging programme for Australian Painters and Swedish Medical Professionals.

How Do Swedish Employers Find and Hire Indian Talent?

Swedish employers find and hire indian talent as follows:

  • International Recruitment Strategies: Swedish employers hire from international recruitment agencies, attend Indian Job fairs (virtual and physical), employ Indian IT companies for talent pipeline development, and recruit through Swedish Universities' International alumni to find qualified candidates for sweden work permit visa for indian.

  • Preferred Qualifications and Cultural Fit: Swedish employers are looking for candidates who are well-versed in German and English, have experience working or studying in Europe, have been able to integrate into Swedish society's work-life balance culture, or possess functional knowledge of state-of-the-art technologies that have a strong demand in Sweden's innovation-driven economy, making these qualities a significant contributing factor to acquiring an indian work permit for sweden sponsored.

What Are the Rights and Benefits of Sweden Work Permit Holders from India?

MC Donalds outlet in snow; Rights and Benefits of Sweden Work Permit Holders from India - TerraTern

Indian citizens who are granted Sweden work permits enjoy far-reaching rights and privileges that safeguard them for long-term successful settlement. 

  • Employment Rights and Protection at Work: Sweden work permits for indian holders get the same employment protections as Swedish citizens in the following areas - respecting the collective bargaining agreements, mandatory insurance (health and life insurance, employment and pension), and protection through Swedish labour law. 

  • Healthcare and Social Security: Work permit holders have access to Sweden's comprehensive healthcare system from the start, with the employer-provided support requirement that is part of sweden work permit visa requirements for indian applicants

  • Training and Professional Development: Sweden work permit visa holders can avail themselves of additional education and professional development opportunities, such as taking Swedish language courses (which are often funded by employability or government schemes) and participating in continuing education programs.

Can Indian Work Permit Holders Bring Their Families to Sweden?

Work permit holders bringing their families to sweden are as follows:

  • Family Reunification Eligibility: Indian holders of a work permit on their way to Sweden can support immediate family members (spouse and children below 21 years of age and currently unmarried) for family reunification after they become a permanent resident and have stable employment with a monthly salary above the minimum salary bar of SEK 29,680

  • Application Process and Timeline: Family members must apply for residence permits through the Swedish embassy or consulate in India, providing proof of relationship (such as marriage certificates or birth certificates with an apostille attestation), proof of accommodation arrangements in Sweden, and financial support documentation. For family reunification, the processing time typically ranges from 8 to 15 months.

  • Dependent Rights: Accompanying family members are granted residence permits, which enable them to work, study, and access healthcare services in Sweden. Spouses automatically gain work authorization, and children through their presence gain access to Sweden's free public education system. They can also apply for Swedish citizenship at a later time.

How Does a Sweden Work Permit Lead to Permanent Residency for Indians?

Sweden work permit leads to permanent residency for indians as follows: 

  • Traditional Pathway Timeline: Sweden work permit for Indian holders apply for permanent residency (PUT - Permanent Uppehallstillstand) after having continuous legal residence in Sweden for 5 years, having a stable employment contract with the possibility to prove basic mastery of the Swedish language and knowledge of Swedish society

  • Accelerated Options: EU Blue Card holders will acquire permanent right of residence in as little as 5 years with accelerated benefits, or with enhanced benefits for those who are married to Swedish citizens. Eligible candidates must have a clean criminal record, demonstrate integration into Swedish society through evidence of employment, and be actively involved in Swedish society.

  • Citizenship: Once you obtain PR, Indians can apply for Swedish Citizenship after 2-3 more years (total 7-8 years from the start of the work permit) by passing the citizenship tests in Swedish language, history, and civic knowledge. Swedish citizenship is dual, meaning that Indians will be able to hold on to their Indian citizenship while acquiring the benefits of European citizenship.

  • Long-term Benefits: Permanent residency and eventual citizenship not only grant the right to work without restrictions anywhere within the EU, but they also enable you to participate in Swedish social security, including unemployment insurance and retirement pensions, vote in local elections, and sponsor additional family members for immigration.  

Also Read: Sweden's EU Blue Card System Got Easier to Hire Skilled Workers 

 

Conclusion

Securing a sweden work permit for indian citizens in 2025 represents an excellent opportunity for career advancement in Europe's progressive work environment. With the updated salary threshold of SEK 29,680 monthly and streamlined processing times averaging 52 days, the sweden work permit visa for indian professionals offers clear pathways to permanent residency and EU citizenship. Understanding the comprehensive sweden work permit visa requirements for indian applicants, including employer sponsorship, document attestation, and biometric procedures, ensures successful application outcomes. 

Contact TerraTern for more information on the Sweden Work Permit for Indian Citizens in 2025.

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

AI Summary

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality, and relevance. Our content is curated by experienced industry professionals, and reviewed by editors to ensure high standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Indians apply for Sweden work permit without a job offer?

No, Indian citizens cannot apply for a sweden work permit for indian without a confirmed job offer. Swedish employers must first submit an "Offer of Employment" form to the Swedish Migration Agency before the Indian applicant can proceed with their application. However, Indians can apply for a job seeker visa (3-9 months) to search for employment within Sweden and then transition to a work permit once they secure a qualifying position.

What is the difference between Sweden work visa and work permit?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, a sweden work permit visa for indian citizens refers to the residence permit allowing employment in Sweden. There is no separate "work visa" - the work permit serves as both residence authorization and employment permission. The permit is issued as a residence permit card that must be collected from VFS Global centers or Swedish embassies after approval.

How long is a Sweden work permit valid for Indian citizens?

Initial sweden work permit for indian citizens are typically granted for up to 2 years, depending on the employment contract duration. Permits can be renewed before expiration if employment continues and sweden work permit visa requirements for indian are maintained. After four years of continuous residence, holders can apply for permanent residency, and after five to seven years, Swedish citizenship becomes available.

Can Sweden work permit holders change employers?

Yes, sweden work permit visa for indian holders can change employers within their permitted field of work. As of May 2026, new flexibility rules will allow job changes with simple notification to the Swedish Migration Agency rather than requiring new permit applications. Currently, permit holders are required to notify authorities of employment changes; however, they don't need to submit entirely new applications for similar positions within their approved occupation.

What happens if Indian workers lose their jobs in Sweden?

If Indian workers lose their employment, they have a grace period to find new work while maintaining the validity of their permit. The Swedish Migration Agency allows a reasonable time for job searching, typically several months, provided the unemployment is involuntary. Workers must notify authorities and actively seek employment. Extended unemployment may affect permit renewal, making it essential to secure new jobs quickly to maintain sweden work permit for an indian status.

Is Swedish language knowledge required for work permits?

No, Swedish language proficiency is not mandatory for obtaining a sweden work permit visa for indian citizens initially. However, English proficiency is essential for most positions. Swedish language skills become beneficial for career advancement, permanent residency applications, and eventual citizenship. Many employers and government programs offer Swedish language courses to help international workers integrate and advance their careers in Sweden.

Can Indian students in Sweden apply for work permits?

Indian students studying in Sweden on student permits can apply for work permits if they secure qualifying employment. They must meet all standard sweden work permit visa requirements for indian applicants, including minimum salary thresholds and employer sponsorship. Students can also apply for job seeker permits after graduation to search for employment, and then transition to regular work permits once they secure positions that meet Swedish requirements.

What is the success rate of Sweden work permit applications from India?

While specific success rates for Indian applicants aren't officially published, complete applications meeting all sweden work permit for indian requirements generally have high approval rates. The Swedish Migration Agency processes applications based on compliance with regulations rather than quotas. Rejections typically occur due to incomplete documentation, insufficient salary offers, or employer non-compliance with labor market testing requirements rather than nationality-based discrimination.

Are there age limits for Sweden work permit applications?

Sweden doesn't impose specific age limits for sweden work permit visa for indian applications. However, practical considerations include the implications for retirement age and pension contributions, as well as long-term career prospects. Younger applicants may find it easier to pursue pathways to permanent residency and citizenship due to longer potential contribution periods.

How does Brexit affect Indian professionals seeking Sweden work permits?

Brexit has no direct impact on Sweden work permit visa requirements for Indian citizens, as the UK's EU departure doesn't affect Sweden's immigration policies for non-EU nationals. However, Brexit may have created additional opportunities for Indian professionals, as some UK-based companies have expanded their operations to EU countries like Sweden.