Emigration to Sweden: how can Ukrainians move in 2025?

Sweden remains one of the most attractive countries for Ukrainians in 2025. Find out if and how to apply for a visa to Sweden, how to find a job in the country, and how to obtain a residence permit

Legal advice on migration issues

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In 2024, Poland entered the top 10 countries in terms of quality of life. This was due to the stability of the economy and high living standards. ‘Radio Sweden Ukrainian reported on its Facebook page that in 2024, the population of Sweden increased by 36,000 people, including Ukrainians. Emigration to Sweden for Ukrainians involves several stages, each of which requires careful preparation: visa application, relocation, residence permit and employment. We have collected all the necessary details on how to emigrate and obtain Swedish citizenship in this article.

Visa to Sweden: main types and requirements in 2025

In 2024-2025, Sweden is working on changes to the current migration legislation, which is primarily due to the need to attract qualified personnel. The changes will also affect the specifics of visa issuance.

As Sweden is a member of the Schengen area, it is mandatory for visitors to obtain a Schengen visa. Such a visa is issued according to the general scheme. We have described in more detail where it is easiest to obtain a Schengen visa and when it is required in our previous article.

Visas to Sweden are divided into two types:

- short-term (if you plan to stay in Sweden for up to 90 days);

- Long-term visas (if you plan to stay in Sweden for more than 90 days).

Please note! Ukrainians do not need to apply for a short-term visa - under the visa-free regime, Ukrainian citizens can stay in Sweden for up to 90 days within each 180-day period.

For more information on travelling to Sweden for Ukrainians, including traffic, exchange rates and the most common languages, please follow the link.

Peculiarities of applying for a long-stay visa to Sweden

There are 3 types of long-term visas to Sweden:

- student

- work visa;

- for the purpose of marriage.

Employment visa to Sweden

Sweden is known for its high salaries and significant employment opportunities. To apply for an employment visa to this country, you need the following documents

- a valid passport;

- a job offer on terms and conditions that meet Swedish collective bargaining agreements or professional standards;

- a monthly salary of at least SEK 13,000 before taxes or a salary at the level of the position;

- a job offer with health insurance, life insurance and social security;

- proof of residence.

Student visa to Sweden

Ukrainians can enter Sweden to study, but they need to collect a certain package of documents:

- application form;

- scanned copies of the last years of study;

- CV

- motivation letter;

- two letters of recommendation;

- Certificate of English language proficiency;

- A copy of the passport.

After being admitted to study, a student can apply for a scholarship. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis without regard to the parents' ability to pay, and money is provided for up to 240 weeks of academic study.

Studying in Sweden is the basis for obtaining a residence permit. To apply for it, you need to meet the following requirements

- have a passport and a document confirming that you have been accepted for full-time study in a programme or courses that require your participation in higher education;

- be able to support yourself during the period for which you apply for a residence permit;

- have paid the applicable tuition fees before submitting the application.

You can get detailed advice on visa application by contacting the specialists on the Visit Ukraine portal.

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Stages of preparation for emigration to Sweden

The procedure for emigration to Sweden depends on your status and purpose of stay. Here is a general description of the steps that may be required:

1. Determination of the purpose:

Temporary protection: If you are fleeing war, you can apply for temporary protection. This entitles you to residence, housing assistance, financial support and access to healthcare.

Work: To work in Sweden, you need a work permit. You will need a job offer from a Swedish employer. After that, you can apply for a work visa.

Study: To study at a Swedish university, you need to obtain a study permit. You will need proof of enrolment in an educational institution, which is the basis for a residence permit.

Family reunion: If you have close relatives living in Sweden, you can apply for family reunification.

2. Collection of documents:

The list of documents required depends on the purpose of your trip.

3. Submitting the application:

You can apply for a residence permit online on the website of the Swedish Migration Board (Migrationsverket). You can also apply in person at one of the Migration Board's offices.

4. Processing of the application:

The Migration Board will review your application and make a decision. The processing time depends on the type of application and the workload of the BAMF.

Do you have any questions during migration? Don't hesitate to contact our qualified lawyers.

How do I get a work permit in Sweden?

To obtain a work permit in Sweden, you first need to find an employer who is willing to hire you and provide you with an official job offer. This employer must offer you a salary that meets Swedish standards, as well as provide health insurance, life insurance, work accident insurance and pension insurance.

After receiving the offer, the employer will initiate a work permit application to the Swedish Migration Board (Migrationsverket). You will receive instructions on how to proceed by email, where you can attach the required documents and pay the application fee. The required documents include a valid passport, a job offer, documents proving your qualifications and work experience, as well as other documents that may be required depending on your situation.

The Migration Department will review your application and make a decision, which may take time. It is important that you apply before you arrive in Sweden. Once you have been granted a residence permit, you can come to Sweden and register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain a personal number.

Book a consultation with Visit Ukraine lawyers today - make sure that your emigration to Sweden is successful!

Photo: Freepik

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