Previously Sweden did not have a permit that would allow individuals to come to Sweden for the purpose of finding employment or starting their own business. However, as of June 2022, a new permit has been introduced which allows people to do just that.
A new visa allowing individuals to seek for a job in Sweden. It will be valid for at least 3 months but can be granted for a maximum of 9 months.
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New requirements
- You need to have an advanced degree (master’s degree, PhD, advanced vocational degree/professional degree)
- Have the intention of seeking employment or looking into the possibility of starting your own business in Sweden
- Be able to support yourself financially during the entire residence period
- Have a comprehensive health insurance
- Have a passport that is valid for the entirety of the intended stay
- Be located outside of Sweden
When submitting the application, it will be required to provide a letter granting the Swedish Council for Higher Education (UHR) the right to contact your educational institution to verify the educational documents that are submitted.
A full list of the documents needed for the visa application to seek for a job in Sweden can be found on the Migration Agency’s website here.
What counts as a comprehensive health insurance?
A comprehensive health insurance is one that covers emergency care and other medical care, hospitalization, dental care, and repatriation for medical reasons. Generally, a good and comprehensive travel insurance will cover these things. It is important to have proof that the insurance is valid for the entire residence period.
Things to note:
- It is not possible to bring any family members with you on this permit. However, if you find employment you can apply for a work permit which will allow family members to join you in Sweden.
- It is not permitted to work on the job seeker permit. If you find employment you need to apply for a work permit in order to start working. However, you are permitted to start working immediately after the work permit application has been submitted (you do not need to wait for it to be approved).