The Swedish government has announced plans to increase the minimum monthly salary requirement for work permits to SEK 33,390, starting in June 2026. This change reflects a shift from the current threshold of 80% of Sweden’s median salary to 90%, as part of broader efforts to tighten labor immigration rules and ensure fair wages.
Current and Upcoming Salary Thresholds
- Current threshold (as of June 17, 2025): SEK 29,680 per month
- Previous threshold (June 18, 2024 – June 16, 2025): SEK 28,480 per month
- Proposed threshold (from June 2026): SEK 33,390 per month
Additional Salary Requirements
Beyond the general minimum, the Swedish Migration Agency applies further criteria:
- Customary pay: Salary must match or exceed industry standards based on collective agreements.
- Self-sufficiency: After taxes and housing costs, income must cover basic living expenses, assessed by household size.
- Renewal checks: Salary compliance during the previous permit period is reviewed during extension applications.
Exemptions
Certain occupations — especially in healthcare, IT, and other sectors facing labor shortages — may be exempt from the increased salary requirement. These exemptions are managed directly by the Swedish government, not the Migration Agency, and are expected to be applied restrictively.
Erickson Insights & 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.
