Job Seeking Visa Sweden

 What is Sweden’s 9 Months Job Seeking Visa?

The 9 months job seeking visa allows individuals to travel to Sweden with the primary purpose of finding employment. Unlike traditional work visas that require a job offer before application, the job seeking visa provides the opportunity to search for a job while residing in Sweden. This visa is particularly beneficial for recent graduates and professionals looking to tap into the Swedish job market.

Eligibility Criteria for the Job Seeking Visa

Before applying, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements for the job seeking visa in Sweden.

Educational Qualifications

Applicants must have an advanced degree such as a Master’s degree or a PhD from an internationally recognized institution. This ensures that candidates have the necessary educational background to compete in the Swedish job market.

Financial Requirements for Sweden’s Job Seeking Visa

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay. The approximate amount is 10 500 Euro or 11 500 USD for 2024. This typically involves showing proof of funds in a bank account to cover living expenses for the duration of the visa.

Other Criteria

Applicants must have comprehensive health insurance valid in Sweden and a passport valid for the duration of the stay. Additionally, they should not have previously held a job seeking visa for Sweden.

Job Seeking Visa Application Process

Applying for a job seeking visa in Sweden involves several steps:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including your degree certificate, proof of financial means, health insurance, and passport.
2. Submit Your Application: Applications are submitted online through the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
3. Pay the Fee: The application fee must be paid as part of the submission process.
4. Wait for a Decision: The processing time can vary, but applicants are generally notified of the decision within a few months.

Costs and Fees For Job Seeking Visa Sweden

The cost of applying for a job seeking visa in Sweden includes the visa application fee and any additional costs related to obtaining the required documents and health insurance. As of 2024, the application fee is approximately 200 Euro or 220 USD (about 2200 SEK), but this can change, so it’s advisable to check the latest fees on the official website.

Processing Time For Job Seeking Visa

The processing time for a job seeking visa can vary a lot. The processing time depends on whether or not the application is complete and if the job seeking visa is approved or rejected. It is recommended to plan ahead and arrange for the health insurance to be valid for when the job seeking visa is approved.

Duration and Extensions

The maximum duration for this job seeking is nine months. If you find a job you will be able to apply for a work permit and start working while in Sweden. If you do not find a job you can apply for another job seeking visa, but you can not do that from inside Sweden. 

Finding a Job in Sweden

Job Seeking Strategies

To maximize your chances of finding a job, it’s crucial to use multiple strategies:

• Online Job Portals: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service) are great starting points.
• Company Websites: Many companies post job openings on their official websites.
• Recruitment Agencies: Randstad, Poolia and Adecco are some of the major recruitment agencies in Sweden.

Networking Tips

Networking is vital in Sweden. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with people in your field on LinkedIn. Building a robust professional network can lead to job opportunities that are not advertised publicly.