At a glance
- Sweden has adopted stricter rules on labour migration, increasing the salary threshold for most work permits to 90% of the national median wage, although exemptions may apply where salaries are instead set by collective bargaining agreements.
- The previous threshold of 80% will be replaced.
- New pay requirements extend to intra-corporate transferees and seasonal workers, who must receive full-time equivalent pay even when working part-time.
- Employer compliance obligations are strengthened, with penalty fees for illegal employment doubled.
- The reforms aim to tighten the conditions for labour migration whilst promoting the immigration of highly skilled workers and will take effect on 1 June 2026.
The Swedish parliament has adopted new rules tightening the conditions for work permits for third-country nationals, with a clear focus on higher wages and stricter employer responsibility.
Under the new framework, the minimum salary threshold for most work permits will increase to 90% of Sweden’s median wage (currently SEK33,390 per month), up from the previous 80% level. However, the government will be able to grant exemptions for certain occupations, where pay may instead be aligned with minimum levels set in applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Stricter pay requirements will also apply to intra-corporate transferees and seasonal workers, who will be required to receive at least the equivalent of a full-time salary even when working part-time. In addition, the maximum duration of seasonal work permits may be extended from six to nine months.
Employers will face tougher sanctions, including doubled penalty fees for illegal employment. The new rules will enter into force on 1 June 2026.
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