The person you want to employ has had their application for a work permit or residence permit to work in Sweden rejected.
If the person you want to employ has had their application for a work permit rejected, they are not entitled to work, live or reside in Sweden.
If the employee is in Sweden when the Swedish Migration Agency rejects the application, they have three weeks to leave Sweden and the Schengen area, calculated from the date the decision was received.
The Swedish Migration Agency’s decision can be appealed. The decision states how this is done and within what timeframe any appeal must be submitted. The decision also states whether the employee has the right to remain in Sweden while their appeal is being examined.
Once the decision becomes legally binding, it is no longer possible to appeal.
If the employee has received a refusal of entry decision that is to be implemented immediately, they must leave Sweden as soon as they have received the decision, even if they choose to appeal.
It is punishable for an employer to employ a person who does not have the right to be in Sweden or work here. The employer may be forced to pay a penalty or be fined or imprisoned. The employer also risks being deprived of the right to public support, grants and benefits and may be liable for repayment of previously paid grants. Their right to participate in public procurements may also be affected.
From 1 June 2026, the Swedish Migration Agency can reject applications for work permits due to shortcomings on the part of the employer. This may, for example, relate to certain offences or sanctions.
2026-06-01
New rules for work permits come into force
New rules for work permits are now coming into effect in Sweden. This affects employers who want to hire people from countries outside the EU/EEA. The changes include a new salary requirement and a possibility for the Swedish Migration Agency to reject applications because of deficiencies linked to the employer.
2025-09-01
Higher income requirement for elite athletes and coaches
As of 1 September, new rules apply if you employ professional athletes or coaches from countries outside the EU/EEA. The rules have been developed in collaboration with the Swedish Sports Confederation.
2025-05-05
You can now apply for a group of seasonal workers
Employers who want to employ seasonal workers in Sweden now have the possibility to apply for work permits for several people at the same time.
2025-04-01
The possibility of changing tracks ends on 1 April
On 1 April, the Swedish Parliaments decision to remove the possibility of changing tracks will come into force. This affects people who have been granted, or applied for, a residence permit on the basis of work after their asylum application has been rejected through a so-called change of track.
2025-03-05
The Swedish Migration Agency's new website has now been launched
On 5 March, the Swedish Migration Agency launched a completely new version of migrationsverket.se, with a new structure and a more user-friendly navigation. The purpose of the new website is primarily to make it easier for visitors to find the information they need.
2025-01-07
New EU Blue Card rules now apply
As of 1 January, new requirements and rules apply for anyone who wants to apply for an EU Blue Card and existing Blue Card holders.