Family Member Eligibility for Swedish Residence & Work Permits
This topic is especially relevant as the maximum age threshold for children depends on the type of permit held by the main applicant and may change when an employee transitions from a temporary residence to a permanent residence permit.
Spouses and Partners
For spouses and partners, the general requirements apply regardless of the type of permit held by the main applicant:
- Married partner: Marriage certificate required
- Registered partner: Proof of cohabitation for at least six (6) months required
- Cohabiting partner: Proof of cohabitation for at least six (6) months required
Children – Age Requirements by Permit Type
Below is a summary of the age requirements for children to be included as dependants and granted a residence permit together with the main applicant:
Residence and Work Permit
(For local employment and assignments to Sweden)
- The child must be under 21 years of age
EU Blue Card
(For highly qualified employees with higher education or professional experience and a sufficient salary)
- The child must be under 18 years of age
ICT (Intra-Corporate Transfer) Permit
(For managers, specialists, and trainees assigned to Sweden within the same corporate group)
- The child must be under 18 years of age
Permanent Residence Permit
(Possible after four years of employment in Sweden)
- The child must be under 18 years of age
When a Child Reaches the Age Threshold While in Sweden
If a child reaches an age at which they can no longer be included as a dependant, a separate application must be submitted for the child based on studies or employment. This application can be submitted and processed from within Sweden.
When a Child Has Turned 18 at the Time of Permanent Residence Permit Application
If a child who has turned 18 is included in the main applicant’s application for a permanent residence permit, the child’s case will be processed separately. In such cases, the child must hold employment in Sweden to qualify for a permanent residence permit or an extension.
If the child does not have employment and the main applicant is granted permanent residence, the child’s application may be refused. In these situations, it may be advisable for the main applicant to apply for a renewal of their temporary permit instead, allowing the child to remain included as a dependant until turning 21 (where applicable).
Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or wish to discuss how these rules may impact your employees and their families, please do not hesitate to contact our team at
immigrationsweden@k2xborder.com
