Sweden has clarified the eligibility requirements for its working holiday residence permit, confirming that citizens of only six countries can currently apply under the scheme.
According to the Swedish Migration Agency, Sweden has bilateral youth exchange agreements with Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. Citizens of these participating countries aged between 18 and 30 can apply to spend up to one year in Sweden on a working holiday.
However, Nigerians and citizens of other African countries are currently not eligible for the working holiday visa route. Nigerians seeking to work, study or reside in Sweden must instead explore other immigration pathways, including standard work permits, study permits and other applicable residence permits.
Applicants from eligible countries must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid passport from one of the six participating countries.
- Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Have at least SEK 15,000 available to cover initial living expenses.
- Have a return ticket to their home country or sufficient funds to purchase one.
- Have comprehensive health insurance covering the duration of their stay, including urgent medical treatment, hospitalisation, emergency dental care and medical repatriation.
Australian citizens are subject to a separate provision under the agreement. The Swedish Migration Agency says Australians are exempt from the health insurance requirement when applying for the residence permit.
All other requirements, including the age limit, financial threshold, valid passport and return-ticket provisions, remain applicable to Australian applicants.
Citizens of countries that do not participate in Sweden’s working holiday agreements, including Nigeria and other African nations, must use alternative visa and residence permit routes if they wish to work, study or live in Sweden.
