Sweden’s Work Permit Salary Threshold Increase in 2026

Introduction to Sweden’s Work Permit Changes

Starting June 1, 2026, Sweden will implement a significant update to its work permit salary requirements, impacting foreign nationals seeking to work in the country. The minimum monthly salary threshold for work permit applicants will rise to SEK 33,390, aligning with 90% of Sweden’s median wage of SEK 37,100. This change, announced by the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) in late 2025, builds on previous reforms to ensure fair compensation for foreign workers and maintain balance in the Swedish labor market. If you’re planning to apply for a Swedish work permit (arbetstillstånd), understanding these new rules is essential for compliance and a smooth application process.

What Is the New Salary Threshold?

As of June 1, 2026, all new work permit applications must meet a minimum monthly salary of SEK 33,390. This is an increase from the previous threshold of SEK 29,680 (effective since June 17, 2025), reflecting Sweden’s median wage published by Statistics Sweden (SCB). The new requirement applies to both full-time and part-time positions, ensuring that salaries align with Swedish standards and prevent wage dumping. Applications submitted before June 1, 2026, will be processed under the current threshold of SEK 29,680, providing a brief window for applicants to act under the existing rules.

For more details on the salary requirement, visit the official Swedish Migration Agency website: Increased Maintenance Requirement for Work Permits.

Who Is Affected by the Salary Threshold Increase?

The new salary threshold affects most foreign nationals applying for a Swedish work permit, particularly those from outside the EU/EEA. However, certain groups are exempt from this requirement, including:

• EU/EEA citizens and their family members exercising freedom of movement.
• Seasonal workers and those under the EU Blue Card scheme.
• Researchers, ICT permit applicants, athletes, coaches, au pairs, and trainees/interns in specific programs.
• Applicants switching from asylum to work permits, who must now meet the higher salary threshold.

Additionally, following proposals from the Swedish Migration Agency in July 2025, exemptions have been introduced for 152 shortage occupations, such as various metal workers, healthcare roles, and IT positions, allowing lower salary thresholds for these in-demand jobs. Employers hiring foreign talent (arbetskraftsinvandring) must ensure job offers meet or exceed the new salary threshold—or qualify for exemptions—to avoid application delays or rejections.

Why Is Sweden Raising the Salary Threshold?

The increase in the work permit salary threshold is part of Sweden’s broader effort to regulate labor immigration (arbetskraftsinvandring) and ensure fair wages. By tying the threshold to 90% of the median wage, the government aims to:

• Protect foreign workers from exploitation through fair compensation.
• Align salaries with Swedish labor market standards.
• Reduce wage dumping, where employers offer below-market wages to foreign workers.

This adjustment reflects annual updates to the median salary by Statistics Sweden (SCB), ensuring the threshold remains relevant to current economic conditions. For official statistics, visit: Statistics Sweden – Median Salary.

How to Comply with the New Work Permit Rules

To meet the new försörjningskrav (maintenance requirement), employers and applicants should take the following steps:

1. Review Salary Offers: Ensure the job offer provides a minimum monthly salary of SEK 33,390 for applications submitted on or after June 1, 2026.
2. Verify Industry Standards: Salaries must also comply with collective agreements or industry norms, as required by the Swedish Migration Agency.
3. Submit Documentation: Provide proof of salary, such as an employment contract, to avoid delays in processing.
4. Monitor Exemptions: Check if your occupation qualifies for the 152 shortage exemptions; stay updated via Migrationsverket announcements.

For a step-by-step guide on applying for a work permit, check the Swedish Migration Agency’s official guide: Apply for a Work Permit.

How Jobbatical Can Help with Sweden’s Work Permit Process

Navigating Sweden’s work permit process, especially with the new salary threshold of SEK 33,390 effective June 1, 2026, can be complex. Jobbatical, a leading visa and immigration services provider, simplifies global mobility for businesses hiring international talent. With over 15,000 successful relocations across Europe, Jobbatical offers tailored solutions to ensure compliance with Sweden’s arbetskraftsinvandring requirements. Here’s how Jobbatical can assist:

• Streamlined Visa Applications: Jobbatical combines smart automation with expert immigration support to handle work permit applications efficiently, ensuring salaries meet the new försörjningskrav of SEK 33,390 or qualify for exemptions.
• Real-Time Tracking: Their global mobility platform provides full visibility over every step, from visa applications to permit renewals, with clear timelines and real-time updates for employers and employees.
• Compliance Assurance: Jobbatical’s automated compliance checks and renewal tracking keep you ahead of deadlines and legal changes, such as the upcoming salary threshold increase or shortage occupation exemptions.
• Time and Cost Savings: Tools like automated immigration assessments and secure document management reduce manual work, saving HR teams hours on repetitive tasks.
• Expert Support: Jobbatical’s immigration experts guide businesses through Migrationsverket’s requirements, ensuring a smooth, fully supported experience for international hires and their families.

Whether you’re an employer hiring foreign talent or an HR professional managing relocations, Jobbatical provides peace of mind, cost reductions, and guaranteed compliance with Sweden’s work permit regulations. Talk to us today to learn more about how we can assist.

Impact on Employers and Foreign Workers

The salary threshold increase may affect hiring strategies, particularly for roles near the minimum salary level. Employers in sectors like healthcare, IT, and agriculture should review compensation packages to ensure compliance—or leverage the new shortage exemptions. Foreign workers in low-wage roles, such as service or care positions, may face challenges meeting the new threshold, potentially leading to higher rejection rates for work permit applications. The Swedish Migration Agency reported an 8% increase in rejections after the previous threshold hike in June 2025, with cleaners and hospitality workers most affected—though exemptions may mitigate this for shortage areas.

Future Proposals and Exemptions

The Swedish government continues to refine work permit policies, including enhanced portability (no longer tied to a specific employer) and an extended unemployment grace period of up to 6 months (from 3). Further salary adjustments may follow annual median wage updates, with the next review expected in 2027. The 152 shortage occupation exemptions, implemented following 2025 proposals, provide relief for critical sectors like metalworking and healthcare. Stay informed by checking updates on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website: Migrationsverket News.

Conclusion

Sweden’s work permit salary threshold increase to SEK 33,390 starting June 1, 2026, reflects the country’s commitment to fair wages and a balanced labor market. Employers and foreign workers must prepare for this change by reviewing job offers, checking exemption eligibility, and staying updated on reforms. By aligning with the new försörjningskrav and following Migrationsverket’s guidelines, applicants can navigate the work permit process successfully. For the latest information, visit the Swedish Migration Agency’s official website or consult an immigration professional.

Disclaimer:

Immigration laws and policies change frequently and may vary by country or nationality. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend doing your own due diligence or consulting official sources. You're also welcome to contact us directly for the latest guidance. Jobbatical is not responsible for decisions made based on the information provided.