Work & taxes
Your residence permit and work rights
Work permits are tied to an employer and occupation; study permits now limit work to 15 hours a week during semesters; family permits usually allow work. Know your own conditions.
At a glance
- Work permit
- Tied to employer and occupation in your decision
- Students (permits from 11 June 2026)
- Max 15 h/week in semesters; unlimited June–August
- Lost your job
- Three months to find a new one (if the permit is still valid)
By permit type
| Permit | Right to work |
|---|---|
| Work permit (employee) | For the employer and occupation in your decision. A new employer, occupation or completely new duties needs a new permit. |
| Studies at bachelor’s or master’s level, permit decided from 11 June 2026 | Maximum 15 hours a week during semesters; no limit in June, July and August. Work linked to your university or programme (teaching, research, administration, traineeship) is unlimited. |
| Studies, permit decided before 11 June 2026 | The new limit applies from when you extend your permit. |
| Doctoral studies | Teaching, research or administration up to 20% of full time. |
| Family member of a work-permit holder | Usually allowed to work. |
| Other studies (e.g. upper secondary) | No right to work. |
If your job ends
If your employment ends early, you may stay to look for a new job for three months after your last working day, as long as your permit is still valid. With a new job you may need a new permit — apply before the current one expires, and you can start once you have applied. The new employer must have advertised the job in Sweden and the EU/EEA. Without a new job or other grounds to stay, you must leave.
Official sources
Rules and fees change. Always confirm on the official page before you apply or pay. Last checked 14 Oct 2026.