Working in Sweden as a student, and after you graduate

Sweden changed its student work rules in 2026. Check the date on your permit, because the limit depends on when it was granted.

Working while you study

If your bachelor's or master's residence permit was granted on or after 11 June 2026, you may work a maximum of 15 hours per week.

Exceptions to the limit

• Work that is part of your education, such as an internship.
• Student representation, administration or research at your higher education institution.
• Artistic research at the institution.
• Work during June, July or August.
• After completing at least two semesters of higher education, you may exceed 15 hours for the rest of that permit, unless you are applying for a new permit for studies below doctoral level.

After you graduate

You can apply for a residence permit to look for work or start a business.

• Length: up to one year after a bachelor's or master's, and one year to 18 months after a doctorate. It cannot run past your passport's validity.
• Degree: you must have finished the full university programme you were admitted to, with all courses passed. Vocational programmes do not count.
• Money: you must support yourself. Migrationsverket lists at least SEK 10,656 a month for applications in 2026.
• When to apply: before your study permit expires. If you have not yet passed all courses, you can apply on time and send the certificate later.

Migrationsverket's page does not say whether you can work on this permit, so check it before you rely on income.

Official sources

• Migrationsverket: residence permit for higher education
• Migrationsverket: look for work after your studies