1. Change of track abolished
Previously, those who had applied for asylum but had their application rejected could change track and apply for a work permit instead. This option was abolished on 1 April 2025. Those who previously received a work permit through a change of track cannot extend it under the new rules, and family members (for example, children) can no longer obtain a residence permit through such a connection.
2. Increased salary requirements
On November 1, 2023, the salary requirement for immigrant workers was increased to 80 percent of the median salary, which today corresponds to at least SEK 29,680 per month. Previously, it was SEK 13,000 per month. This means that, for example, cleaners and nurses may not meet the salary requirement and can no longer obtain a residence permit to work in Sweden.
3. Temporary residence permits
In 2016, temporary residence permits were introduced as the main rule. This means that immigrants can only apply for a permanent residence permit after at least three years. If a young person has turned 18 by then, they are no longer considered part of their family and must have their own reasons for staying.
4. Removal of the lower "particularly distressing circumstances" ground
Previously, young adults could be allowed to stay due to "particularly distressing circumstances", which could be, for example, having been educated here, knowing the language and growing up here. That possibility was removed in 2023. Now "particularly distressing circumstances" are required, which is a higher requirement.
