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A new government inquiry proposes mandatory registration for EEA citizens residing in Sweden, starting on January 1, 2027.
Swedish version here.
Background
EEA stands for European Economic Area. Sweden abolished the registration requirement for EEA citizens in 2014 after criticism from the European Commission that the regulation led to double registration procedures. Another reason given was that the registration requirement was not considered to serve any significant purpose, partly because registration is not decisive for the right of residence in Sweden.
However, this has led to Swedish authorities having limited knowledge of which EEA citizens are residing in the country and under what right of residence. For this reason, among others, on January 24, 2025, the current government appointed a special investigator tasked with analyzing how a registration system could be reintroduced. The aim is to provide the authorities with the necessary information while respecting the EU's requirements for free movement.
What do the new rules mean?
EEA citizens with a right of residence must register with the Migration Agency no later than three months after arrival. Nordic citizens, those with permanent residence rights, and job seekers are exempt. Registration is free of charge, and the registration certificate has no time limit. Photographs and fingerprints may be taken during identity checks in connection with registration, but this biometric data must be destroyed immediately after the check.
Anyone who fails to register risks having to pay a fine to the Migration Agency through an order from the authority, according to the proposal. There is no fixed fine amount in the current proposal. The Migration Agency may also deregister anyone who they deem to lack a right of residence; this decision may be appealed to the migration court. It is also proposed that the police be allowed to check on EEA citizens who are believed to have been in Sweden for more than three months, to determine whether they have registered with the Migration Agency.
The employer's role
Employers of EEA citizens are not responsible for registration but should inform employees of their obligation. It is wise to include information in introductory material and to document that the information has been provided. The employer may need to certify the employment as a basis for the right of residence.
Coordination numbers make it easier
The Migration Agency is proposed to request that the Tax Agency assign coordination numbers to registered EEA citizens. This also facilitates personnel administration, payroll and tax management, and reduces the risk of identity confusion.
Timetable and transitional rules
The rules are proposed to come into force on January 1, 2027. Existing EEA citizens in Sweden will be given a longer deadline – they must register by July 1, 2027. EY advises employers to inform all existing staff from the EEA (except Nordic citizens) about this in spring 2027 and can also assist with the registration process for the individuals concerned.
Authors
- Andreas Bråthe, Partner Global Immigration, 073-397 24 33
- Elin Harrysson, Senior Manager Global Immigration, 073-255 77 02
- Karin Falkman Lundberg, Manager Global Immigration, 072-186 11 65
- Elsa Tirén, Manager Global Immigration, 076-853 19 79
Summary
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