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Work permit rules in Trollhättan follow Swedish national immigration and labour law. Citizens of EU, EEA and Switzerland do not need a work permit to take employment in Sweden. Citizens of countries outside the EU/EEA generally need a residence permit for work before starting employment. A work permit is a combined authorization to live and work in Sweden for a specific employer and for a limited period, unless you later qualify for a permanent residence permit. Processing, conditions and appeal routes are governed by national law and administered by national authorities, while local services in Trollhättan assist with integration, job matching and practical questions.
Many work permit cases are straightforward, but legal help can be essential in situations that are complex, time-sensitive or risky. Common reasons to consult a lawyer include:
- Refusal of a work permit application or refusal to extend a permit - a lawyer can assess grounds for appeal and prepare submissions within strict deadlines.
- Threats of revocation or deportation after criminal charges, breach of permit conditions, or changes in employment - legal representation can help protect your right to remain while matters are considered.
- Complex family reunification issues - combining a work permit application with family immigration can involve additional rules and documentation.
- Employer compliance disputes - if your employer fails to provide the agreed terms, withholds salary or does not meet Swedish labour standards, a lawyer can advise on both immigration and labour law remedies.
- Changing employer, transfer or termination - some permit conditions tie you to a specific employer or position; legal advice helps you change jobs or respond to termination without losing your right of residence.
- Appeals and administrative procedure - administrative law has strict time limits, evidentiary rules and court stages; a lawyer helps prepare appeals and represent you in administrative courts.
- Obtaining permanent residence or citizenship - assessing eligibility, preparing long-term strategies and documenting continuous work periods or income can benefit from legal guidance.
Work permit matters in Trollhättan are governed by national Swedish legislation and regulations. Important local and national aspects to be aware of include:
- National framework - immigration and work permit rules are set nationally and applied uniformly. Local authorities do not create separate immigration rules.
- Employer obligations - employers hiring non-EU/EEA workers must meet Swedish labour standards. They must document employment conditions and show that salary and terms are in line with collective agreements or customary practice in Sweden.
- Recruitment and documentation - employers will often need to show the recruitment process and provide a written offer or contract with clear terms of employment, salary, duties and duration.
- Municipal integration and employment services - the Trollhättan municipality and the local Public Employment Service provide integration programs, job-search support and language training that help permit holders settle and find work.
- Rights at work - employees in Sweden are protected by strong workplace rights, including rules on working hours, minimum standards set by collective bargaining agreements, workplace safety and anti-discrimination protections. These rights apply regardless of nationality.
- Appeals and courts - decisions on permits are handled by the national migration authority and can be appealed to administrative courts. Deadlines are strict, and legal representation is often advisable for appeals.
If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country or Switzerland, you do not need a work permit. If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA, you generally need a residence permit for work before starting employment. There are some exceptions for short-term assignments or certain categories of workers - check your specific situation before starting work.
Applications are normally submitted to the national migration authority. Your prospective employer usually provides an offer of employment and the necessary information about salary and terms. You must provide personal identification, passport, and other documents requested for your category of permit. Always check the required documents carefully and allow sufficient time for processing.
Processing times vary with application type, the complexity of the case, seasonal demand and whether the application is complete. Some straightforward cases are decided in weeks, while more complex files or appeals can take months. Apply early and make sure to submit all required documentation to avoid delays.
Family reunification is usually possible for spouses or cohabiting partners and children under certain conditions. Family members often apply for residence permits linked to the principal applicant's work permit. Eligibility criteria and required documents vary, so plan ahead and prepare family applications alongside your own if possible.
Some permits are tied to a specific employer and position. Changing employer or role may require a new permit or a notification to the migration authority. Before changing jobs, check the conditions of your permit and seek legal advice if the change could affect your right to stay.
There is no single national salary figure, but employers must offer salary and terms that are in line with Swedish collective agreements or customary local practice for the occupation. The salary should be sufficient to support you and should not be below market norms for the profession. Your employer is responsible for demonstrating this in the application.
Whether you can start work before a final decision depends on your nationality and the specific permit rules. Non-EU/EEA nationals normally must wait for the permit to be granted unless specific provisional rules allow work. EU/EEA citizens can usually start work without a permit but should register with local authorities as needed.
If your application is refused you will receive a written decision explaining the reasons and the deadline for appeal. Appeals must be filed within the time limit specified in the decision. A lawyer experienced in migration and administrative law can evaluate the refusal, prepare an appeal and advise on options such as submitting additional evidence or reapplying.
Termination by your employer may affect permits that are linked to specific employment. If you lose your job you should immediately seek information about how that affects your residence status. There may be short grace periods or options to apply for other permits - get prompt legal or official guidance to protect your position.
After a period of continuous legal residence and work, many non-EU/EEA permit holders can apply for permanent residence. The requirements include a certain duration of legal work and residence and proof of self-support. Citizenship has additional criteria, such as a longer required period of residence, language and conduct considerations. Exact thresholds vary - check eligibility early and document your employment and income carefully.
The following local and national bodies and organizations are commonly helpful when you need information, services or legal support:
- The national migration authority - handles applications, decisions and initial information about permits.
- Public Employment Service - local office in Trollhättan can assist with job search, recruitment and integration programs.
- Trollhättan municipality - local integration, housing and social services that assist newcomers.
- Swedish Tax Agency - for registration, personal identity numbers or coordination numbers needed to work and access services.
- Swedish Social Insurance Agency - for information about benefits, parental leave and social insurance rights.
- Trade unions - unions in your sector can advise on contracts, collective agreements and workplace rights.
- Swedish Bar Association and local immigration law firms - to find an authorised lawyer or advokat for legal representation.
- Local civil society organizations and migrant support groups - practical assistance with language, orientation and daily life.
If you think you need legal assistance with a work permit issue in Trollhättan, consider the following practical steps:
- Gather documents - passport, employment offer or contract, payslips, proof of qualifications and any correspondence from authorities. Keep copies of everything.
- Check eligibility - use official guidance or a qualified advisor to check what permit category fits your situation and what the basic requirements are.
- Contact your employer - ensure they understand the documentation they must provide and their obligations under Swedish rules.
- Seek early legal advice - if your situation involves a refusal, revocation, criminal matters, complex family issues or a possible appeal, contact an immigration lawyer experienced in Swedish administrative law as soon as possible.
- Use local services - contact the Trollhättan Public Employment Service and municipal integration services for practical support while you wait for decisions.
- Prepare for timelines - applications and appeals have strict deadlines. Note those dates and act promptly to avoid losing rights of appeal.
- Keep records and stay informed - keep a timeline of events, save official letters, and check official guidance regularly as rules and practice can change.
If you are unsure where to start, a brief consultation with a qualified lawyer or an accredited advisor can clarify your options and the documents you need to move forward.
