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Long-stay visas (Type D)

Swedish Researcher Residence Permit

A residence permit for non-EU researchers hosted by a Swedish research organisation approved by the Swedish Research Council.

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Under review — check current rules

Maintenance figure SEK 9,700/month may be revised over time; confirm the current amount with Migrationsverket.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Sweden government website before you apply.
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Issued by
Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)
Host requirement
Hosting agreement with a research principal approved by the Swedish Research Council
Maintenance
At least SEK 9,700 per month (for stay and return journey)
Figure updated periodically.
Duration
Up to 4 years at a time (not beyond the hosting agreement)
Application fee
SEK 1,500 (researcher)

Who it's for

Non-EU/EEA nationals with a doctorate (or eligibility for a doctoral programme) invited to conduct research in Sweden by an approved host, including admitted doctoral students with a hosting agreement and holders of research permits from other EU countries.

Requirements

  • Valid passport
  • Hosting agreement with a research principal approved by the Swedish Research Council
  • At least half of your working time devoted to actual research
  • Maintenance of at least SEK 9,700 per month covering your stay and return journey
  • Comprehensive health insurance for stays shorter than one year

What you can do

  • Live in Sweden and conduct research under the hosting agreement
  • Bring accompanying family members
  • Apply afterwards for a permit to look for work or start a business
  • Build toward permanent residence over time

How to apply

Apply via Migrationsverket's e-service or on paper. A complete application for a research permit is generally decided within about 30 days (75% of complete cases within roughly one month).

The permit runs for up to four years at a time and never longer than the hosting agreement is valid.

Documents

  • Passport copy
  • Hosting agreement with the approved research principal
  • Evidence of maintenance funds (at least SEK 9,700 per month)
  • Health insurance documentation for stays under one year
  • Documents for accompanying family members, if applying together

Frequently asked questions

  • It is an agreement between you and a Swedish research organisation approved by the Swedish Research Council, setting out the research you will carry out; it is the foundation of the permit.

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.

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