Sweden Updates Family Immigration Rules and Residence Permit Requirements

• Sweden has implemented new family immigration rules that expand residence permit options for certain young adults while introducing stricter residence and financial support requirements for many family reunification applicants.  

Family Immigration Rules and Residence Permit Requirements  

The Swedish Parliament has adopted new immigration rules related to family ties that took effect on Oct. 1, 2026. The changes affect certain young adults previously granted residence permits through family ties, as well as individuals seeking to join family members in Sweden or extend family-based residence permits.  

New Options for Certain Young Adults 

Under the new rules, some young adults who previously held a residence permit based on family ties to a parent may apply for an extension of their residence permit even after turning 18.  

During a transitional period, certain individuals who have already received an expulsion decision may also benefit from the updated provisions.  

Temporary In-Country Application Flexibility 

Sweden is introducing a temporary opportunity for eligible individuals to apply for a residence permit on other grounds without first leaving the country. This measure will remain available through December 2027. Applicants must still satisfy all eligibility requirements for the permit category sought.  

New Two-Year Residence Requirement 

As a general rule, individuals in Sweden holding a temporary residence permit must have resided in the country for at least two years before a family member can apply to join them.  

The two-year residence requirement does not apply to: 

• Work permit holders; 
• Researchers; 
• Doctoral students; 
• EU Blue Card holders; 
• ICT permit holders; and 
• Unaccompanied minors and their parents.  

Certain refugees may also qualify for exemptions.  

Stricter Maintenance Requirement 

The new legislation increases the financial maintenance threshold that sponsors in Sweden must meet after housing costs are deducted. In addition, the maintenance requirement will now apply when family members seek to extend their residence permits. In these cases, the family member’s income may generally be considered as part of the assessment.  

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