Introduction programme from Arbetsförmedlingen

Last updated: 23/10-2023

Arbetsförmedlingen provides a special form of support for people who have just been granted a residence permit. This is known as the introduction programme, and its aim is for you to learn Swedish, find a job and start earning your own money as quickly as possible.

In order to participate in the programme you need to:

  • Be between 20 and 64 years old.
  • Have been granted a residence permit as a refugee or a quota refugee, be in need of protection, or be a close relative of someone who is any of these.

Arbetsförmedlingen has produced short films that explain what the introduction programme is.

What does the introduction programme include?

What activities are included in your programme plan depends on your needs. You plan your activities together with Arbetsförmedlingen based on your previous experience and your interests.

However, the following activities are always included:

  • Swedish for Immigrants, SFI.
  • Introduction to Swedish society. This is a course that gives you fundamental knowledge about Swedish society.
  • Preparation for getting a job. This can include traineeships, for example. You can also get help to have your professional skills and training assessed, which is known as validation.

When are the activities in the introduction programme done?

The activities in your programme plan are done during 40 hours each week. In most cases you will take part in the introduction programme for 24 months.

In some cases you may participate in the introduction programme for fewer hours per week or for fewer months in total. This might be if you:

  • Get a part-time job during the period you are participating in the introduction programme.
  • Are on parental leave for a few days every week.
  • Have a functional impairment.
  • Are ill and cannot participate for 40 hours a week.

If you go on full-time parental leave during the period you are participating in the introduction programme, you have the opportunity to continue the programme when your parental leave is over.

Accelerated employment access through a year of intensive studies and/or internships (Intensive year)

If you are new in Sweden and taking part in the Establishment Programme, the Intensive Year could be an opportunity for you. Over a period of one year, you can study at a fast pace or do an intensive full-time internship at a place of work, in combination with spare-time activities. The goal is for you to find a job quickly.

Introduction benefit

You are entitled to receive money if you follow the plan in the introduction programme. This money is known as an introduction benefit.

You may also be entitled to various supplements:

  • If you have children you may be entitled to a supplementary introduction benefit.
  • If you live alone you may be entitled to a supplementary housing benefit.

Försäkringskassan is the authority that determines if you are entitled to benefits, and also calculates how much you are entitled to.

Compulsory education

Compulsory education applies for some new arrivals to Sweden. "Compulsory education" means that you need to get educated in order to improve your possibilities of getting a job.