Questions, answered · HR and people teams
How long does a Swedish work permit take?
Updated
It depends on the permit type and the occupation. The Swedish Migration Agency publishes current decision times per permit type, and Settio's free Decision Wait Times tool shows them in one place. Complete applications are decided fastest, so most delay is avoidable.
In detail
- Times differ for first applications and extensions.
- A complete application on the first try avoids requests for more documents.
- Plan the start date backwards from the decision time, not the other way round.
How Settio helps
Settio counts every deadline back from the start date and moves the plan when the decision comes earlier or later.
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Informational only. This guide is not legal advice. Always verify requirements with official government sources before acting. Facts checked 10 October 2026. About this information