Moving to Sweden

Sweden, the spine of Scandinavia, is a gorgeous Nordic country in Northern Europe, blessed with picturesque topography. Those moving to Sweden will enjoy its thousands of incredible islets and inland lakes, verdant boreal forests, majestic mountainscapes, and a coastline that runs for thousands of miles. 

From the fragmented islands and fjords in the temperate south to the sub-Arctic 'land of the midnight sun' in the north, Sweden has much to offer for all who come to its shores. 

Living in Sweden as an expat

Sweden is becoming an increasingly popular expat destination, attracting people from all over the world. It offers the prospect of a balanced, prosperous life in a country that combines high technology and liberal values with respect for traditions. Not to mention an abundance of economic opportunities and extensive, efficient social welfare.

Stockholm, the capital city and most likely expat destination, is built on an archipelago of 24,000 islands. If you're moving to Stockholm, you'll thrive in what is known as one of Europe's most attractive, vibrant, and interesting metros. Each of the 14 islands in the city's centre has a unique character and range of entertainment options. Housing supply is somewhat under pressure, though; rental prices are high, and decent, conveniently located apartments can be difficult to come by.

The country also boasts a reasonably healthy job market, with ample opportunities for highly qualified expats in specific sectors, such as IT, energy, and media. Despite strict immigration laws, around a fifth of the Swedish population comes from a foreign background, especially in large cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö.

You may find Swedish difficult to learn, but since Swedes generally speak excellent English and enjoy practising it, the language barrier is easily overcome. Swedish culture may, however, be a little more challenging for expats to adapt to. 

Once in Sweden, you should head to the local Skatteverket (tax office) and apply for a personnummer (personal identity number). Without this number, a person officially doesn’t exist in Sweden, making applying for any type of service, job, or account impossible.

After completing this, getting a National ID card is suggested, as using a passport for one’s main form of identity is risky and tiresome, whereas the Swedish ID card is readily accepted and much less stressful to carry.

You'll notice that a common thread running through expat accounts of living in Sweden is the difficulty in connecting with the reserved and introverted Swedes and integrating into local life. If you are prepared to enjoy your status as an outsider, you will be better prepared for the occasional awkward encounter.

Cost of living in Sweden

Life in Sweden doesn't come cheap, and you should be prepared for a fairly high cost of living, especially in Stockholm. In addition, high tax rates mean that Swedish salaries are fairly modest. On the flip side, if you have residence permits, you will enjoy the benefits of an extensive state social network covering major expenses like education and healthcare.

If you will be sending your children to international schools, you must be prepared for the high tuition fees and additional costs. Accommodation is another large expense you must account for when moving to Sweden. It may be necessary to rent short-term housing when you first arrive in the country, which can further contribute to your initial start-up costs. 

Families and children in Sweden

The importance of family life is a key Swedish value, making Sweden an excellent place to raise children. The state provides free and high-quality education, healthcare, and childcare, so parents will find their families well cared for in Sweden. 

While the tax-funded education in Sweden is exceptional, the language of instruction is Swedish, which may be unsuitable for older expat children. There are a fair few international schools in major cities like Stockholm. These offer a wide range of globally recognised curricula and often teach in English, making it easy for your children to adapt. 

Sweden is also a world leader in liberal values, pioneering LGBT rights and gender equality, while also providing extensive parental privileges for employees. There'll be plenty to keep you and your family entertained during the weekend, and you'll likely find yourself spending more time enjoying Sweden's great outdoors. 

Climate in Sweden

Winters can be a shock if you are moving to Sweden from a warmer climate. During the winter months of December to March, temperatures drop below zero, snow falls in clumps, and sunlight makes a reluctant appearance for only a few hours each day. Winter also heralds Sweden’s biggest unexpected danger: falling ice from city roofs. It would be wise to heed the warning signs. 

Sweden balances ultra-modern cities with expanses of untouched wilderness, and the famously modern populace still takes great pride in its traditions. Expats moving to Sweden find the country safe and stable, and even those who tend to complain about the locals renew their stay here time and time again.

Fast facts

Population: More than 10.5 million

Capital city: Stockholm 

Neighbouring countries: Sweden is located in Northern Europe and shares borders with Norway to the west and Finland to the northeast. The Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia are to the east and south of the country. 

Geography: Sweden is a heavily forested country, with two-thirds made of forest and woodland. Mountains and hills dominate in the west. A small part of the country lies north of the Arctic Circle. The lowest elevation in Sweden is in the bay of Lake Hammarsjön, and the highest point is Kebnekaise. There are also over 95,000 lakes in Sweden, many of which are used for water power plants. 

Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Major religions: Christianity is the major religion in Sweden. Islam is the second-largest religion in Sweden, but is only practised by around five percent of the population. 

Main languages: Swedish is the official language spoken by most of the population. English is also widely spoken, especially in the cities and business circles.

Money: The Swedish crown or krona (SEK) is the official currency in Sweden and is divided into 100 ore. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. 

Tipping: Although service charges are built into restaurant bills, an extra tip of 7 to 10 percent is expected. It is normal to round up the fare when paying for a taxi. While not expected, tips are appreciated for good service in hotels.

Time: GMT+1 (GMT+2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Standard European two-pin plugs are used.

Internet domain: .se

International dialling code: +46

Emergency contacts: 112

Transport and driving: In Sweden, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Sweden's public transport system consists of buses, trains, and boats. Swedish rail services are excellent, and the bus network is extensive.