New rules for family members accompanying employees
From 1 October 2026, new rules for immigration due to family ties will apply. For those of you who have, or are planning to apply for, a work permit in Sweden, this means certain changes to the requirements for your family members.
The maintenance requirement means that there must be sufficient funds to cover living expenses for both you and your accompanying family members while you are in Sweden.
The exact maintenance requirement varies from family to family, depending, amongst other things, on the size of the family and housing costs.
On 1 October 2026, the rules for immigration due to family ties will change. For those of you holding a work permit who have accompanying family members who are moving with you or living with you in Sweden, certain conditions will change.
The maintenance requirement will apply to extension applications
Under current rules, the maintenance requirement is examined only when you apply for the first time. From 1 October, it will also be examined when you apply for an extension of your permit. In such cases, your family members income may also be taken into account.
However, there are restrictions on what income can be included. For example, income from subsidised employment and unemployment benefits will not be counted.
Family members of holders of ICT permits and EU Blue Cards
If a family member of a holder of an ICT permit or an EU Blue Card is going to stay in Sweden for a maximum of one year, comprehensive health insurance will be required. The insurance must, for example, cover medical treatment and hospital care in Sweden.
Family members of researchers
A maintenance requirement is also being introduced for people holding a residence permit for research, a permit for research as part of mobility for a longer stay, and a permit for former researchers to seek employment or explore the possibility of starting a business. The family member must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Sweden. The maintenance requirement also applies when applying for an extension.
Permanent residence permit
If you hold a residence permit in Sweden and are applying for a permanent residence permit, your family member must apply for their own residence permit to live with you in Sweden.
Apply for a residence permit to live with someone in Sweden External link..