If you application for asylum is approved:
- you will receive a residence permit card
- you will receive a protection status
- get a personal identity number
- a municipality may help with housing if you need it
- you can work in Sweden (if you are 16 or older)
- your family may be able to join you
- you can travel, but you must carry your passport and permit card
This is an important moment and the start of a new chapter in Sweden. You may now be wondering: "What happens next?"
Here you’ll find simple information about your residence permit, your rights, and the next steps to help you settle in, find your way, and start transitioning your life here.
If your asylum application has been approved, Sweden has decided that you need protection and can live in the country legally.
You will receive a residence permit. This allows you to live and work in Sweden while the permit is valid.
You will also receive a residence permit card. This card shows that you have permission to stay in Sweden.
your protection status
When Sweden approves your asylum application, you receive something called a protection status. This explains why you are allowed to stay in Sweden.
There are 2 types:
1
refugee status
If you receive refugee status, you will usually get a residence permit for 3 years.
2
subsidiary protection
If you receive subsidiary protection, you will usually get a residence permit for 13 months.
The type you receive depends on your personal situation and reasons for protection.
If you decline the housing offered by the municipality, you may need to find housing on your own.
If this is your first residence permit, you should register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) as soon as possible.
When you register, you will receive a personal identity number (personnummer).
This number is very important in Sweden. You need it to:
- open a bank account
- get a Swedish ID card
- access healthcare
- attend Swedish language classes (SFI)
- use many public services
To register, you usually need:
- your residence permit card
- a valid ID document
If the Migration Agency still has your ID document, you can ask them for a signed copy.
work
If you are 16 years old or older and have received a residence permit because you need protection, you can work in Sweden.
When applying for a job, bring:
- your residence permit card
- a copy of your decision letter
Employers may want to see how long your permit is valid.
family
In many situations, your close family members can apply to move to Sweden. This is called family reunification.
Family members who may be able to apply include:
- your partner or spouse
- your children
The rules depend on:
- your protection status
- how long your permit is valid
- whether you can financially support your family
Each case is reviewed individually.
housing
If you already have a place to live, you can continue living there.
If you are living in Migration Agency housing and cannot find housing yourself, the Migration Agency may help you move to a municipality.
The municipality will then help you settle and start your life here.
- Your residence permit is temporary
- You may need to apply to extend it before it expires
- A personal identity number makes daily life much easier
- If you have refugee status, do not travel to your country of origin
- Keep your documents and permit card safe
- If you decline a housing offer through any municipality, you may need to find housing on your own
- Register with Skatteverket quickly: This helps you access healthcare, banking, and education
- Make copies of your documents: Keep digital or paper copies of important documents
- Start learning Swedish early: SFI classes can help you settle faster
- Ask for help if you need it: Municipalities and support organisations can help you understand life in Sweden
can I work in sweden now?
Yes. If you are 16 years or older, you are allowed to work in Sweden.
how long can I stay?
This depends on your protection status:
- Refugee status: usually 3 years
- Subsidiary protection: usually 13 months
You may be able to apply for an extension later.
can my family come to sweden?
In many cases, yes. Your close family members may be able to apply for family reunification.
can I travel outside sweden?
Yes. But you must bring:
- your passport
- your residence permit card
If you have refugee status, do not travel to your home country.