Residence permit for studies
If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen and will study in Sweden for more than three months, you must apply for a residence permit for higher education. This also applies to students admitted to a mobility programme within the EU who begin their studies in Sweden. You apply directly to the Swedish Migration Agency, which is responsible for issuing residence permits. KTH cannot influence the processing of your application, but on this page we provide guidance on what you need to prepare before you apply.
Before you apply
Make sure that you:
- are admitted to full-time studies at KTH and have your Notification of selection results,
- have paid the first tuition fee instalment (if you are a fee-paying student),
- have a valid passport that you can present during the passport check,
- can support yourself financially according to the Migration Agency’s requirements,
- have health insurance if your studies in Sweden are shorter than one year (exchange students at KTH are covered by Student IN).
Notification of selection results
The notification of selection results is the official document stating that you are admitted to KTH. Fee-paying students can find the document on their University Admissions account. Exchange, double-degree and dual master’s students receive it through Mobility-Online.
How to apply
You apply on the Swedish Migration Agency's website , and the permit must be issued before you enter Sweden. We recommend starting your application as soon as you meet the requirements listed above. The Migration Agency will inform you about the required documents and guide you through all necessary steps, such as passport verification or, if needed, an in-person visit to an embassy. These steps vary depending on your country and circumstances. Many KTH students go through this process every year, and the vast majority receive their residence permit in time for the start of their studies when the required steps are followed.
Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland
EU/EEA and Nordic citizens
You have the right to study, work and live in Sweden without a residence permit. You do not need to contact the Swedish Migration Agency.
Swiss citizens
If you are staying in Sweden for more than three months, you must apply for a residence permit after arriving in Sweden. More information is available on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
Follow your application
After submitting your application, you can check if it has been received and if a decision has been made on the Migration Agency’s website. KTH is not involved in the assessment or processing of applications.
Check your application (migrationsverket.se)
Work during your studies
International students are allowed to work in Sweden during their studies. No separate work permit is needed. Part-time jobs can be competitive in Stockholm, especially if you do not speak Swedish.
Guide from Study in Sweden
Study in Sweden offers short videos that explain the application process step by step if you want a better overview of the full process.