Job Seeker vs Post-Study Work: which Swedish visa is right for you?
Two routes into the Swedish job market: a permit to look for highly-qualified work, and the post-study Graduate Work Permit for those who studied in Sweden.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Residence permit to look for work or start a business (highly qualified) (Job Seeker) | Residence permit to work after higher education studies in Sweden (Post-Study Work) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Highly qualified people with a master's-level degree who want to come to Sweden to job-hunt or explore starting a business. | International graduates of Swedish higher education who have found a qualifying job. |
| Government cost | ~2,000 kr | ~2,200 kr |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months | ~1-4 months |
| Length of stay | 3 to 9 months | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| Where to apply | Outside Sweden (online or at an embassy) | Inside Sweden (online) |
| Work rights | Allowed to look for work and start a business; not to take employment until you switch permit | Tied to the offered employer and occupation |
| Pathway to PR | No direct PR; switch to a work permit, Blue Card or self-employment permit once you find a role. | Work time counts towards permanent residence after 4 of the last 7 years. |
Which is right for you?
Residence permit to look for work or start a business (highly qualified) (Job Seeker)
Highly qualified people with a master's-level degree who want to come to Sweden to job-hunt or explore starting a business.
Full Job Seeker guide →Residence permit to work after higher education studies in Sweden (Post-Study Work)
International graduates of Swedish higher education who have found a qualifying job.
Full Post-Study Work guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Job Seeker or Post-Study Work?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Residence permit to look for work or start a business (highly qualified) (Job Seeker) is the lowest at ~2,000 kr. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Job Seeker or Post-Study Work?
Indicatively Residence permit to look for work or start a business (highly qualified) (Job Seeker) is the quickest at ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Job Seeker and Post-Study Work?
Residence permit to look for work or start a business (highly qualified) (Job Seeker) is for highly qualified people with a master's-level degree who want to come to Sweden to job-hunt or explore starting a business. Residence permit to work after higher education studies in Sweden (Post-Study Work) is for international graduates of Swedish higher education who have found a qualifying job.