Sweden•EuropeResidence Permit for Job Seeking (Post-Study/Research)
At a Glance
1–7 months
SEK kr 3,750
Up to 12 months
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Permit for recent graduates and researchers to seek employment in Sweden for up to 18 months (post-research) without a job offer or work authorization.
The Swedish Residence Permit for Job Seeking enables individuals who have completed advanced studies or research to remain in Sweden while searching for employment. Available to graduates of recognized Swedish institutions completing at least two semesters of study or a research program, this permit bridges the gap between academic completion and professional employment.
The permit grants up to 12 months for post-study applicants or 18 months for post-research applicants (from June 2026), and is not renewable. Main applicants and adult family members pay SEK 1,500; children pay SEK 750 (no fee for Japanese citizens). Processing takes up to 7 months for studies or 1 month for complete research applications. Spouses have restricted work rights.
This visa is ideal for recent graduates and post-doctoral researchers who have completed their studies or research in Sweden and seek employment opportunities, providing a crucial transition period for launching Swedish careers.
Cost Breakdown
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
SwedenSwedenSwedenRequirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must have held a residence permit for studies (higher education) or research in Sweden.
Must have completed the higher education program (at least two semesters) or research project.
Must have a valid passport.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself during the job-seeking period.
Must have or have applied for comprehensive health insurance.
Must apply before the current residence permit expires.
KEY CRITERIA
Education
master or higher
Min. Savings
156,000 SEK
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport.
Degree certificate or official transcript/certificate of completion from the university.
Certificate from the research principal (for researchers).
Bank statements or proof of income showing sufficient funds.
Proof of comprehensive health insurance.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows up to 9 months to search for employment after completing studies or research in Sweden
- Provides legal residence status enabling in-country job interviews and networking with Swedish employers
- Can transition to work permit, self-employment, EU Blue Card, or long-term residence if employment secured
- Family members can apply for residence permits at the same time
- Application fee of SEK 2,200 is reasonable for a 9-month residence permit
- No prior work experience required—designed for recent graduates and researchers
Worth Knowing
- Processing times of 2–4 months reduce the effective window for job seeking within the 9-month permit
- Non-renewable—must secure employment contract or depart Sweden within the 9-month window
- Requires proof of sufficient financial means: minimum SEK 156,000 savings to support yourself during job search
- Must apply before your current residence permit (studies or research) expires; cannot apply after expiry
- No work authorization during the permit—cannot work until you secure a job offer and transition to a work permit
Application Process
Verify qualification and gather required documentation
Complete and submit the online application via the Swedish Migration Agency portal
Pay the application fee
Visit a Swedish embassy or consulate to present passport and provide biometric data
Await decision and receive residence permit card
Application Forms
| Application for a residence permit to seek work on completing studies or research (Form 189011) | Fill online |
| Application for a permit for family members of workers, researchers, athletes or coaches and self-employed persons (Form 133011)Optional | Fill online |
Related visas
More visas in Sweden
Work visas in other countries
- EU Blue Card
Spain
- Research Visa (E-3)
South Korea
- Seasonal Worker Permit
Cyprus
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