During the summer months, companies rely on seasonal workers to do work associated with the summer period. People who come from countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland and who have been offered employment as a seasonal worker in accordance with fixed-term employment agreements can obtain a work permit for seasonal work.
Different work permits
In order to be able to obtain a work permit, the employer must have its registered office and its actual business operations in Sweden. If a person is employed by a foreign employer and works for a client in Sweden, they are not covered by the regulations on work permits for seasonal work. An example of this is berry pickers who are employed by foreign companies.
A work permit for seasonal work can be granted for a maximum of six months during a twelve-month period.
Work lasting less than three months is eligible for a work permit for seasonal work. Citizens from certain countries also need a visa for their stay in Sweden.
For work lasting longer than three months, a combined residence and work permit can be issued.
Requirements for employers
In order for a work permit for seasonal employment to be granted, the employer must meet the following requirements:
- Issue an offer of employment and give the relevant trade union the opportunity to comment on the terms of employment.
- Offer employment conditions that are at least at the same level as Swedish collective agreements or what is customary in the profession or industry.
- Offer a salary that is at least at the same level as Swedish collective agreements or what is customary in the profession or industry.
- Intend to take out health insurance, life insurance, occupational injury insurance, and occupational pension insurance when employment begins.
- Offer employment that enables employees to earn a living. In order to meet this requirement, the salary must total at least SEK 13,000 a month before tax.
- Advertise the position in Sweden and within the EU/EEA and Switzerland for at least ten days.
