General rules for third-country citizens living in Sweden

Last updated 2026-06-20

If you are a third-country citizen living in Sweden, special rules apply if you want to work in Denmark as a cross-border commuter. Here you can learn more about work permits and residence permits.

Two colleagues discussing a project at work
Photo: Maskot/Johnér/Imagebank.sweden.se
 

Work permits are country-specific

As a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you are not covered by the EU rules on free movement of labour. A residence or work permit issued in Sweden or Denmark therefore only applies in the country where it was granted.

If you want to live in Sweden and work in Denmark, or vice versa, you must have a work permit that specifically allows you to work in the other country.

You must apply for and receive the permit before you start working. To apply for a work permit in Denmark or Sweden, you must first have a job offer or employment contract. You also have to pay a fee when applying to the country's immigration authorities.

You cannot get a work permit to look for work in Denmark or Sweden.

Important

  • If you work in Denmark or Sweden without the correct work permit, both you and your employer may face fines or other penalties.

  • Always contact the immigration authorities in your country of residence to find out how working in another EU/EEA country may affect your residence permit and status as a cross-border commuter.

 

If you live in Sweden and want to work in Denmark

If you live in Sweden and want to work in Denmark, visit the Danish immigration authorities, Ny i Danmark, to find out whether you need a work permit and how to apply.

Read about work permits at nyidanmark.dk

 

Further information

Work permits and residence permits are two different types of permits and are only valid in the country where they were issued.

If you have questions about the rules for third-country citizens living in Sweden and working in Denmark as cross-border commuters, contact the immigration authorities in your country of residence.

Read about work permits in Sweden at Migrationsverket

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You are always welcome to visit our Information Center in Malmö to get help with your questions regarding working, moving or studying in Denmark.

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