The Swedish parliament (Riksdag) has approved the government’s proposed new residence rules for researchers, doctoral candidates and students. The Riksdag also approved special provisions on granting residence permits for so-called mass refugees from Ukraine. The new rules will come into force on June 11, 2026.
The decision involves changes to the type of residence permit that can be granted, the possibility of applying for a new permit from within Sweden, and the requirements that apply in different situations.
The Swedish Migration Board is now starting to prepare its operations for the legislative changes.
Changes for researchers and doctoral students
For researchers and doctoral students, the new rules mean, among other things, greater opportunities to apply for and receive a permit without first leaving Sweden. In some cases, it will also be possible to receive a permanent residence permit after just three years.
Under current regulations, doctoral students can apply for a residence permit for higher education studies. Under the new regulations, they can in some cases be granted a residence permit for research. This applies to doctoral students who have a hosting agreement with an approved research principal.
Those who have completed research or postgraduate education may also be given more time to look for work or investigate the possibilities of starting a business, for up to 18 months.
Changes for students
For people with a residence permit for studies, the possibility of working alongside their studies is being limited. The requirements to demonstrate acceptable progress in their studies are also becoming clearer.
It will also be more difficult to switch from a residence permit for studies to another residence permit from within Sweden. To be able to do so, as a general rule, the student must have completed studies corresponding to at least two semesters of higher education.
The rules for family members of students are also changing. In certain situations, their residence permit may be revoked if the conditions for the permit are no longer met.
Persons protected under the Mass Displacement Directive
For Ukrainian nationals who have protection under the Mass Displacement Directive, the new rules mean that in certain cases they can apply for a residence permit on another basis from within Sweden, for example for work or business activities.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.