Long-stay visas (Type D)
Swedish EU Blue Card
A residence-and-work permit for highly qualified non-EU professionals holding a Swedish job offer that meets a higher salary threshold.
Under review — check current rules
Important information
- Issued by
- Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)
- Salary threshold
- SEK 53,625 per month
- Stated as effective from 15 July 2026 and equal to 1.25× the average salary; updated periodically.
- Contract length
- At least 6 months
- Qualification
- Higher education of at least 180 credits, or 5 years of relevant professional experience
- Validity
- Minimum 9 months up to 4 years (not beyond passport validity)
- Path to permanence
- May qualify for permanent residence after 36 months on a Blue Card
Who it's for
Non-EU/EEA citizens offered highly qualified employment in Sweden who hold a relevant higher-education qualification or, in some professions, sufficient equivalent professional experience.
Requirements
- Valid passport
- Higher education corresponding to at least 180 higher-education credits, or at least 5 years of relevant professional experience
- Signed employment contract for at least 6 months
- Salary of at least SEK 53,625 per month (1.25× the average salary; verify current figure)
- Comprehensive health insurance covering medical care, hospitalisation, emergency dental care and repatriation
What you can do
- Live and work in Sweden in the highly qualified position
- Change to another highly qualified job by notifying Migrationsverket, without a new Blue Card
- Bring family members, who may work if aged 16 or over
- Move toward permanent residence after 36 months, and benefit from intra-EU mobility rules
How to apply
The employer initiates the application via Migrationsverket's e-service; the applicant receives an email link to complete their portion and pay the fee.
Documents are presented at a Swedish embassy or consulate, where biometrics are collected. For complete applications, 75% of cases are decided within about one month.
Documents
- Certified copies of your passport
- Signed employment contract for at least six months
- Degree certificate, or references evidencing 5 years' relevant experience
- Health insurance documentation
- Family relationship documents and proof of maintenance if family accompany you
Frequently asked questions
It targets highly qualified roles with a higher salary threshold, but offers easier job changes, EU mobility, and a shorter route to permanent residence (36 months).
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Swedish visas
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- BUSINESSSELF-EMPLOYEDNON-EUSelf-Employed / Own Business Residence PermitA residence permit for a non-EU entrepreneur who will run their own business in Sweden and can demonstrate the necessary experience and capital.View visa details
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