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New Sweden work permit rules in force: 90% median salary floor for foreign hires

New Sweden work permit rules in force: 90% median salary floor for foreign hires

From 1 June 2026, first-time work permit applicants in Sweden must earn at least 90% of the national median salary (a minimum of about SEK 34,470/month), up from the previous 80% level. Applicants staying up to one year must show comprehensive health insurance, and Migrationsverket can now reject applications over employer deficiencies such as tax-reporting sanctions or prior offences. Workers renewing between 1 June and 1 December 2026 may still use the old 80% threshold.

Why this matters for founders

Founders hiring non-EU engineers or specialists must budget salaries above the new ~SEK 34,470/month floor and keep their company's tax and reporting record clean, since employer sanctions can now sink an otherwise valid application. Confirm health-insurance coverage for any hire on a permit of one year or less before filing.

Source: Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)

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