Sweden remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals with competitive salaries, strong worker protections, and an innovation-driven economy. If you’re a Nigerian citizen (or any non-EU/EEA national) with a genuine job offer in Sweden, you’ll typically apply for a work permit (residence permit for work) before travelling.
In this article, we provide everything you need to know about eligibility, salary thresholds, documents, timelines, and how to apply.
Who needs a Swedish work permit?
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens must hold an approved work permit linked to a specific job offer before entering Sweden (there are narrow exceptions). The permit doubles as a residence permit for the duration of your employment.
Minimum salary & employment conditions (2025)
Sweden links the minimum salary for standard work permits to the national median wage. As of 17 June 2025, the median salary is SEK 37,100/month; therefore, the minimum qualifying salary is SEK 29,680/month (80% of the median) before tax. Your offer must also match Swedish collective agreements or what’s customary in the occupation, and include required insurances arranged by your employer.
Beware of outdated figures online (e.g., SEK 27,360). The official threshold was updated in June 2025.
Employer’s obligations (advertising & unions)
- Job advertising: Before hiring you, the employer must advertise the role for at least 10 days in Sweden/EU/EEA (for example via Arbetsförmedlingen/EURES).
- Union opinion: Your employer normally obtains a union statement confirming that the salary and terms meet Swedish standards. (This is requested during the application.)
Who applies first—and how?
The employer starts the application online by submitting an offer of employment and the required details. You then receive an email to complete your part, attach documents, and pay the fee. Submitting online is strongly recommended.
Typical documents you’ll prepare:
- Bio-data page of a valid passport (ensure enough validity for the permit length).
- Signed employment offer/contract stating job title, duties, salary, and duration.
- Any education/professional proof required by the role.
- If asked: union opinion and proof of health/occupational insurance arranged by the employer.
Fees, biometrics & decision
- Application fee (employee): SEK 2,200 (online card payment). Some categories are exempt, but most standard hires are fee-paying.
- Biometrics & residence permit card: If you apply from outside Sweden, you’ll give fingerprints and a photo at a Swedish mission/VFS centre to produce your residence permit card. Bring the card when entering Sweden.
- Processing time: Varies by case volume and completeness. Use the official “Check your case time” tool for the latest estimates.
Validity, job changes & permanent residence
- Length: First permits are typically issued for up to 2 years (not longer than your contract or passport). Extensions are possible while you remain eligible.
- Changing jobs/employers: Initial permits may be restricted to the stated employer/occupation. If you change employers or roles, you often must apply for a new permit before starting the new job. Check your decision letter and plan any switch.
- Permanent residence: After 4 years of work permits within 7 years, you may qualify for permanent residence (subject to self-sufficiency and other conditions).
Bringing your family
Your spouse/partner and unmarried children under 21 can usually apply for residence permits as family members. They may receive work rights depending on the permit and length of stay. Apply together where possible.
Finding a job from Nigeria: trusted portals
Start with Sweden’s official and pan-EU job boards, then branch out to private platforms:
- Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service) — national listings (many in English).
- EURES — vacancies across the EU/EEA, including Sweden.
- Private platforms (e.g., LinkedIn) can complement, but verify offers against Swedish standards.
Tip: Tailor your CV for Swedish employers (clear responsibilities, quantified results, tech stacks). Many roles value English; Swedish language helps but is not a blanket visa requirement—language needs are set by the employer.
Step-by-step: Application checklist
- Secure a compliant offer
- Salary ≥ SEK 29,680/month (2025) and terms per collective agreements/custom.
- The employer has advertised the role for 10+ days.
- Employer initiates online application
- Submits offer & requests union opinion. You receive an email link.
- Complete your online part
- Upload passport, contract, proof of qualifications, and pay the SEK 2,200 fee.
- Give biometrics
- Book at the Swedish mission/VFS to submit fingerprints/photo for your permit card.
- Decision & travel
- On approval, collect your residence permit card and travel to Sweden to start work.
- Extend & plan for PR
- Track validity, keep employment uninterrupted, and maintain an eligible income if you aim for permanent residence after 4 years.
Common myths vs. facts (2025)
- “Any salary above minimum wage qualifies.”
False. It must be ≥ 80% of Sweden’s median salary and meet collective-agreement standards for the occupation. - “You need IELTS for the visa.”
Not as a blanket rule. Language requirements depend on the job, not the Migration Agency; employers often accept English. - “You can change employers freely.”
Not always. Many first-period permits are employer/occupation-restricted. Apply for a new permit before switching.
Final notes for Nigerian applicants
- Apply only through official channels; avoid intermediaries who promise “guaranteed jobs/visas.”
- Ensure passport validity covers your intended permit length.
- Keep copies of employment offer, union opinion, and insurance confirmations; they’re frequently requested.
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