If you are planning to work in Sweden, one of the most common questions is: Can my family join me on a Sweden work visa?
The short answer is yes. Sweden allows family reunification for most foreign workers, provided certain income and housing requirements are met.
Sweden Work Visa Overview
Foreign nationals who receive a work permit in Sweden can usually bring close family members.
The authority responsible for immigration decisions is the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket).
Family members apply for a Residence Permit for Family Reunification.
Who Can Join You in Sweden?
The following family members can normally join:
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Husband or wife
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Registered partner
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Cohabiting partner (long-term relationship)
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Children under 18 years old
In some special cases, dependent children over 18 may be considered.
Parents and siblings usually cannot join under standard work visa rules.
Financial Requirements (Maintenance Requirement)
To bring your family, you must show:
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Stable employment income
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Enough income to support yourself and your family
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Suitable accommodation in Sweden
Your salary must cover:
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Rent
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Living expenses for all family members
The minimum amount depends on family size and is updated yearly by the Swedish authorities.
If you do not meet the income requirement, the family application may be refused.
Accommodation Requirement
You must have housing that is:
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Large enough for your family
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Properly rented or owned
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Meeting Swedish housing standards
For example:
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A couple needs at least a one-room apartment with kitchen.
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A family with children needs additional bedrooms.
Can Family Apply Together With You?
Yes.
There are two options:
1. Apply Together
Family members can apply at the same time as the main work permit applicant.
2. Apply Later
They can apply after you receive your work permit and start working.
Applying together usually speeds up the process.
Processing Time
Processing time varies:
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2 to 6 months (average)
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Sometimes longer during peak periods
Delays may happen if documents are incomplete.
Can Spouse Work in Sweden?
Yes.
One major advantage of Sweden is:
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Spouses receive a residence permit with full work rights.
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They can work for any employer.
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They can also start a business.
This is a big benefit compared to many other EU countries.
Can Children Study in Sweden?
Yes.
Children:
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Can attend public school free of cost.
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Have access to healthcare.
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Receive similar rights to Swedish children.
Required Documents
Typical documents include:
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Marriage certificate or proof of partnership
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Birth certificates (for children)
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Passport copies
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Employment contract of main applicant
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Salary slips
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Housing contract in Sweden
All documents may need translation into Swedish or English.
What If Your Work Permit Is Short-Term?
If your work permit is:
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Less than 6 months → Family reunification may not be approved.
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1 year or longer → Family joining is normally allowed.
Longer permits improve approval chances.
What Happens If Your Job Ends?
If your employment ends:
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You must inform the Swedish Migration Agency.
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Your family’s residence permit depends on your status.
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You usually get 3 months to find a new job.
If you secure a new qualifying job, your family can stay.
Can Family Travel in Europe?
With a Swedish residence card:
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They can travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in 180 days.
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They cannot work in other EU countries.
Common Reasons for Refusal
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Income below required level
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Insufficient housing space
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Incomplete documents
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Relationship not considered genuine
Always provide clear documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my fiancé join me?
Not directly. You must be married or prove a long-term cohabiting relationship.
Can parents join on Sweden work visa?
Generally no, unless exceptional dependency exists.
Do children need separate applications?
Yes, each family member must submit an individual application.
Is health insurance required?
Yes, until they are registered in the Swedish population system.
Final Advice for Applicants and EU Helpers
Sweden offers one of the most family-friendly work visa systems in Europe. However, financial stability and proper housing are key.
Before applying:
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Check updated income requirements.
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Prepare all relationship documents.
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Apply early to avoid delays.
If your employment situation is complex, professional immigration advice is recommended.