Sweden is an attractive destination for professionals seeking a new career abroad. In addition to its excellent quality of life and work-life balance, Sweden offers a special type of visa for highly qualified individuals who want to search for a job or explore business opportunities,the Job Seeker Visa (also known as the "residence permit to seek employment or start a business").
Unlike the traditional work visa, which requires a job offer from a Swedish employer, the Job Seeker Visa allows individuals to enter and stay in Sweden while they look for work or plan a business.
What Is the Swedish Job Seeker Visa?
The Job Seeker Visa is a temporary residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to stay in Sweden for up to nine months to look for employment or explore the possibility of starting a business. This visa does not allow you to bring family members with you initially, nor does it allow you to start working immediately,it’s intended only for job hunting or business planning.
Requirements Checklist
Before applying, make sure you have:
✅ A valid passport
✅ Proof of completed education (translated diploma and transcript, if not in Swedish or English)
✅ Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself — currently, this is approximately SEK 13,000/month (around EUR 1,100 or USD 1,200)
✅ Valid health insurance covering your stay
✅ A detailed CV/resume
✅ Motivation letter explaining your job or business plan
✅ University documentation stating your degree level and field
How to Apply for the Job Seeker Visa
You apply online through the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket). Here’s the process:
1- Prepare your documents: All required paperwork should be in digital format (PDF, JPG).
2- Go to the official website: https://www.migrationsverket.se
3- Create an account and fill out the application
4- Pay the application fee (SEK 2,000 as of 2025)
5- Wait for decision: Processing times vary, but typically it takes 1–3 months
6- If approved, you will receive a decision letter and can then travel to Sweden.
Important Notes
* Once in Sweden, if you get a job, you must apply for a work permit before you begin working.
* If you plan to start a business, you must switch to a residence permit for self-employment.
* You cannot extend this visa beyond the initial 9 months.
* Family members cannot join you until you get a work or business permit.
Who Can Apply?
This visa targets highly qualified individuals. You are eligible if you have completed advanced-level studies, such as:
* A master’s degree
* A PhD
* A professional degree (e.g., engineering, medical, or law)
- The degree must be from a recognized university,either Swedish or international.
- You are financially self-sufficient during your stay.
- You have health insurance valid in Sweden.
- You plan to seek work or start your own business during your stay.
Tips for Success
- Focus on in-demand sectors. Sweden has strong demand in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, and green energy.
- Prepare your CV and adapt it to Swedish standards. A simple, direct format is appreciated.
- Learn some Swedish language .While many companies operate in English, basic Swedish helps in daily life and networking.
- Use platforms like:
Arbetsförmedlingen – Swedish Public Employment Service
Link https://www.arbetsformedlingen.se/
EURES – EU job mobility portal
Link https://ec.europa.eu/eures/
Final Thoughts
The Swedish Job Seeker Visa is a fantastic opportunity for educated professionals who want to explore life and work in Sweden without needing a job offer in advance. It gives you the chance to network, apply directly to companies, and understand the job market from within the country.
With the right preparation and persistence, this visa can be your first step toward a rewarding career and life in Sweden.