Sweden•EuropeLong-Term Resident Status
At a Glance
9 months
SEK kr 1,500
5 years
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote work OK
Overview
Renewable 5-year residence permit for non-EU/EEA citizens with 5+ years of legal residency in Sweden.
Long-term resident status is Sweden's pathway for non-EU/EEA nationals who have resided in the country legally and continuously for at least five years. This classification grants individuals rights broadly comparable to EU citizens, including enhanced mobility throughout the European Union and a legal status reflecting deep integration within Swedish society.
The main fee is SEK 1,000 for adults and SEK 500 for children; exemptions apply for Nordic citizens' family members, EU/EEA citizens and families, Swiss citizens, Japanese citizens, and persons assessed as needing protection. The residence permit is valid for five years and renewable. Processing takes approximately eight months for 75% of cases. Form 138011 applies.
This visa is ideal for non-EU/EEA nationals with five years of continuous legal residence seeking permanent status and intra-EU mobility rights.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 5 years |
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Non-EU/EEA citizen
Resided in Sweden legally and continuously for at least 5 years
Ability to support yourself and family
KEY CRITERIA
Experience
5+ years
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Proof of 5-year legal residence
Proof of income/financial support
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Renewable 5-year residence permit after successful approval — can extend indefinitely
- Low application fee of SEK 1,000; children pay only SEK 500 (exemptions for Nordic/EU/EEA families)
- Fast processing — 75% of cases decided within 8 months
- Full work authorization in Sweden upon approval — no employment restrictions
- Spouse and children can join under family reunification with work rights
- EU mobility rights for long-term residents — enhanced access to other EU countries
- Dual intent allowed — maintain family and employment ties while residing in Sweden
Worth Knowing
- Requires 5 years of prior continuous legal residence in Sweden before application
- Renewal required every 5 years to maintain status (no indefinite single approval)
- Must demonstrate financial stability to support self and dependents
- Changes as of July 2026 — permit now 5-year renewable, not permanent residence
- Any breaks in legal residence during 5-year qualification period disqualify application
- Status is no longer permanent residence (as of 12 July 2026) — must renew every 5 years
Application Process
Verify 5-year residency
Submit application via portal
Receive decision
Application Forms
| Form 138011 – Application for long-term resident status in Sweden (Ansökan om ställning som varaktigt bosatt i Sverige) | Fill online |
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