Questions, answered · HR and people teams
Can someone work in Sweden on a business trip without a work permit?
Reviewed by the Settio team · Updated · Facts checked against the official sources below
Some short work is exempt, such as attending meetings or some short assignments, but most productive work for a Swedish employer needs a permit. The exemptions are narrow, so check the specific case before the trip.
Read the full guideWorking in Sweden Without a Work Permit: Business Trips and Exemptions (2026)In detail
- Meetings, conferences and negotiations are usually fine.
- Hands-on project work for a Swedish client usually is not.
- Visa rules for entry are separate from the right to work.
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Settio's plan asks how the person will work and shows whether a permit step is needed.
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Sources
- Government Offices of Sweden: List of third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when entering Sweden
- European Commission: EES fully operational from 10 April 2026
- Migrationsverket: Certain people may work in Sweden without a work permit
- Lagen.nu: Aliens Ordinance (2006:97), chapter 5
Related questions
- What if the country I work with isn't supported by Settio?
- What is the union statement in a Swedish work permit application?
- How do I hire an employee from outside the EU in Sweden?
- What documents are needed for a Swedish work permit?
- How long does a Swedish work permit take?
- Who submits the work permit application in Sweden, the employer or the employee?
Informational only. This guide is not legal advice. Always verify requirements with official government sources before acting. Facts checked 22 October 2026. About this information