Want permanent residency in Sweden? Indians must earn Rs 2.7 lakh a month – Here’s what you need to know

Indians chasing the dream of securing Sweden PR will now have to clear a tougher financial hurdle. The Swedish government has announced that foreign workers must earn a minimum of SEK 29,680 per month before tax (roughly Rs 2.76 lakh)—equivalent to 80% of the country’s median salary—to qualify for work permit extensions and stay on track for Sweden permanent residency.

The rule, which applies to both fresh applications and renewals, is expected to significantly impact Indians working in Sweden’s booming IT, engineering, and research sectors, where many see PR as the gateway to long-term stability and eventual citizenship.

Why the Rule Matters

For Indians, who form a growing part of Sweden’s workforce, this new threshold could be a turning point. Falling short of the income cut-off may not only block work permit renewals but also derail the longer journey to Sweden PR and eventual citizenship.

The Benefits of Sweden Permanent Residency

PR status offers far more stability than a temporary work permit, which requires frequent renewals and paperwork. With Sweden permanent residency:

• You are no longer tied to a single employer.
• Families get stronger immigration security.
• You gain EU-like rights, including freedom to travel across the Schengen zone.

In a country known for its flat workplace culture, innovation-driven jobs, and high quality of life, PR is considered a crucial step for long-term settlement.

Who Can Apply for Sweden PR?

The road to Sweden permanent residency is not quick. To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a valid work permit for 48 months (usually two back-to-back 2-year permits).
• Have worked in Sweden for at least 44 months in the last seven years.
• Meet financial and housing requirements.
• Have no criminal record and prove they have lived a “decent life” in the country.

Applications can be filed 30 days before the work permit expires. But since bridge permits were scrapped in 2022, many workers may have to wait until their sixth year in Sweden if they don’t meet the 48-month mark.

The Cost Factor

Applying for a Sweden permanent residence permit is not very expensive compared to other countries. The fee is SEK 1,500 (around ₹14,000) for adults and SEK 750 for children under 18. However, costs may vary depending on the type of application, such as long-term resident status or cases involving non-EU citizens.

The bigger challenge lies in the process:

• Renewals are often lengthy and complex, with new rules sometimes applied retroactively.
• Many employers cover PR application fees for employees and their families.
• Travel restrictions usually apply while the application is under review, and decisions can take months or even years.

Applicants should always check the Swedish Migration Agency website for updated fees and requirements before applying.

Can Sweden PR Be Revoked?

PR in Sweden isn’t an absolute guarantee. It can be revoked if:

• You no longer live in Sweden or spend excessive time abroad.
• False or incomplete information was provided during the application.

Otherwise, Sweden permanent residency ensures indefinite stay without the hassle of constant renewals.

Pathway to Swedish Citizenship

For many Indians, Sweden PR is just the beginning. After five years of residence with PR (shorter if married to a Swedish citizen), you can apply for Swedish citizenship. Requirements include:

• Proof of identity and valid documentation.
• Good conduct with no serious criminal record.
• Continuous residence in Sweden.

Citizenship brings additional privileges such as voting rights, a Swedish passport, and greater opportunities across the European Union.