Sweden
June 2010
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Sweden. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
Overview
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Attending business meetings or discussions
- Making sales calls to potential clients provided that the visitor represents a commercial entity outside of Sweden
- Attending seminars or "fact-finding" meetings
Type of Business Visas – The Visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
- Schengen C Visa
Basic Requirements –
- Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- Good health and character;
- Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Sweden
- No intention to permanently reside in Sweden
- A ticket for onward travel from Sweden
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Sweden for up to three months in a six months period. Visas cannot be extended in country.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases
- a valid visa or authority to enter Sweden
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment in Sweden the combined work and residence permit (intra-company). This is a Visa Category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Sweden on a temporary visa.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled positions in Sweden.
Process Overview - The process for obtaining a Swedish work and residence permit involves a two step process summarized below.
- Work and residence permit application with Swedish Migration Board
- Permit endorsement in passport
We also recommend an in-country registration at the tax authorities.
Estimated Processing Time – six to eight weeks
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to two years initially.
Family Members –Secondary/ family dependants can work and study, provided the assignment of the principal employee is for at least six months.
