How to get a work visa in Sweden as a Turkish citizen
Complete guide to all available work permit pathways, requirements, costs, and processing times.
Why Turkish citizens choose Sweden
Sweden offers Turkish workers 3 distinct visa pathways to live and work legally. Turkish citizens are valued for deep manufacturing and engineering expertise and a large, established European diaspora. Applications are made at the Sweden diplomatic mission serving Ankara.
Who this is best for
- ✓Tech and software professionals (Stockholm's startup scene)
- ✓Automotive and manufacturing engineers
- ✓Game developers and creative-industry talent
- ✓Green-energy and cleantech specialists
- ✓Professionals who value family-friendly policies
Available visa pathways
Work Permit
Arbetstillstånd
Sweden's work permit is the standard pathway for non-EU nationals to work in the country. It requires a job offer from a Swedish employer with terms that meet collective agreement standards, including a minimum monthly salary of SEK 28,480 (approximately EUR 2,500). The salary must be sufficient to support yourself without social welfare, and the employment must include insurance coverage (health, life, occupational injury, and pension) from the first day of work.
EU Blue Card Sweden
EU Blue Card
Sweden's implementation of the EU Blue Card provides an alternative pathway for highly qualified professionals with a university degree and a high-salary job offer. The salary threshold for the Blue Card in Sweden is SEK 636,000 annually (approximately SEK 53,000 per month), which is significantly higher than the standard work permit minimum. This positions the Blue Card as a premium visa for senior professionals, managers, and specialists in high-paying fields.
ICT Permit
ICT-tillstånd
Sweden's ICT (Intra-Corporate Transfer) permit implements the EU ICT Directive, allowing multinational companies to transfer managers, specialists, and trainees from non-EU offices to their Swedish operations. The transferred employee must have been working for the company or corporate group for at least three months (managers and specialists) or six months (trainees) immediately preceding the transfer.
💡 Tip for Turkish citizens applicants: Have your Ankara police clearance certificate ready, and check whether your degree and supporting documents need to be apostilled or legalised for use in Sweden.
Application timeline for Sweden
Employer offers job meeting conditions
Your employer must offer terms that meet Swedish collective agreement standards and the minimum salary of SEK 28,480/month.
VariesApply online to Migrationsverket
Submit your work permit application online through the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) portal.
1 dayProcessing and decision
Migrationsverket processes the application. IT sector and certified employers often receive faster processing.
1-4 monthsApply for residence permit card
Once approved, visit the nearest Swedish embassy to provide biometrics for your residence permit card.
2-4 weeksTravel and register with Tax Agency
Travel to Sweden and register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to receive your personal number (personnummer).
1-2 weeksCommon required documents
Documents commonly required for a Sweden work visa for Turkish citizens:
Cost estimate in Turkish Lira (TRY)
Approximate conversions for Turkish citizens. Currency rates are indicative - check current rates before applying.
| Item | Amount | In TRY |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | kr 2600 | ₺8,419 |
| Minimum salary threshold (per year) | kr 341,760 | ₺1,106,651/yr |
Embassy and application centres
Apply at the Sweden diplomatic mission serving Ankara. Check the official embassy or visa application centre website for appointment booking, fees and current document requirements.
Related guides
Working and living in Sweden
Key industries hiring
Sweden's international hiring is concentrated in technology (Spotify, Klarna, Ericsson), automotive (Volvo, Scania), the gaming industry, and a rapidly expanding green-energy and battery sector in the north of the country.
Cost of living and quality of life
Stockholm housing costs around SEK 12,000 a month for a one-bedroom, and other costs are high but matched by strong salaries and public services. Sweden's 480 days of parental leave, subsidised childcare and emphasis on work-life balance are central to its appeal.
Next steps for Turkish applicants
Ready to start your Sweden visa application? Here is what to do next:
- Check which visa you qualify for
- Gather your documents
- Apply through the official portal
How to apply for a Sweden visa from Turkish
Applications for Sweden are processed through VFS Global. Here is how to apply, step by step:
- 1Prepare your documents
Cover letter, bank statements, photos, and supporting evidence.
- 2Book your appointment at VFS Global
Processing time: 15-30 business days. Service fee: €30.
- 3Attend your appointment with all documents and passport
Biometrics: 10 fingerprints + photo at the centre.
- 4Track your application after submission
Use your reference number on the tracking portal.
- 5Collect your passport when notified
You will receive an SMS or email when your passport is ready. Collect within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What salary is needed for a Work Permit in Sweden?
The minimum salary is kr 341,760 per year.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Sweden?
Processing times range from 4 to 16 weeks.
Can I bring my family on a Sweden work visa?
Yes. 3 of 3 visa types allow dependants.
How much does a Sweden work visa cost for Turkish citizens?
Visa application fees start at kr 2600 - approximately ₺8,419. Budget extra for medical checks, document authentication, and travel to the embassy.
Can Turkish citizens apply for a Sweden work visa from Ankara?
Yes. Turkish citizens apply through the Sweden diplomatic mission serving Ankara. Processing takes 4-16 weeks.
Is there a path to permanent residency in Sweden?
Yes. 2 of the 3 visa pathways on this page can lead to permanent residency in Sweden.
What documents do Turkish citizens need for a Sweden work visa?
Required documents typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of qualifications, employment contract, financial evidence, and health insurance. Requirements vary by visa type.
What are the top industries hiring in Sweden?
Sweden's international hiring is concentrated in technology (Spotify, Klarna, Ericsson), automotive (Volvo, Scania), the gaming industry, and a rapidly expanding green-energy and battery sector in the north of the country.