Starting January 2026, new security requirements will be introduced for ID06 cards, which are essential for legally working on construction sites in Sweden.
Upcoming Changes to ID06 Card Requirements in Sweden
The new regulations, effective from next year, stipulate that when an ID06 card order is approved, every individual, whether a citizen of an EU/EEA country or a third-country national, must identify themselves with a valid passport or a national ID card recognized as a travel document within the EU.
Until now, it has been possible to order ID06 cards using electronic identification (e-ID) — although this option was only available to holders of documents issued by certain countries. From January 2026, this method will no longer be accepted, as e-ID does not allow verification of the cardholder’s citizenship.
In addition, documents must be scanned via a mobile app or at one of the authorized ID06 scanning points, in order to verify their authenticity and confirm both the citizenship and identity of the holder. Workers from non-EU countries will also be required to present and scan their EU residence permit.
The new requirements will apply to new ID06 card applications. Cards issued before this date will remain valid until their expiration.
Why the new requirements were introduced
The change, promoted by ID06 AB and its owner organizations — Byggföretagen, Byggherrarna, Fastighetsägarna, Sveriges Allmännytta, Installatörsföretagen, Maskinentreprenörerna, Plåt & Ventföretagen, Säkerhetsföretagen, Transportföretagen, Måleriföretagen i Sverige, and Glasbranschenföreningen — is driven by three main objectives:
- Verification of citizenship and right to work:
The right to work in Sweden is tied to the worker’s citizenship. The validity of the ID06 card will therefore be linked to the duration of the individual’s right to work in Sweden. - Uniform rules across the construction sector:
The ID06 system is used in multiple industries; stronger regulation enhances predictability and reliability. - Improved controls and traceability:
With clearer and more secure identification, authorities will be able to conduct more effective inspections and detect irregularities earlier.
The ID06 system, which already includes over 700,000 valid cards and processes approximately 1,500new applications daily, represents a cornerstone of labor regulation in Swedish construction. With the introduction of the new requirements in January 2026, the system will take another step toward greater security, transparency, and fairness in the labor market.
