Moving to Sweden
Practical advice on property, paperwork and settling in for anyone planning a move to Sweden.
My Swedish Career: 'By moving here I had more chance of doing what I dreamed of'
When Gavin Maycroft arrived in Stockholm aged 28 to join his Swedish girlfriend, he’d mainly been a waiter. But he soon blagged his way into DJing and music events, and 20 years later is one of the main bookers for the Stockholm Jazz Festival.
The Local's 11 insider tips when apartment hunting in Sweden
Taking your first step onto the property ladder is always a big moment, and especially so when you're navigating the housing market in an unfamiliar country. If you're hoping to buy an apartment in Sweden, here's an in-depth guide to the things you should be thinking about.
'Reassess your cultural background': Key tips for foreign job hunters in Sweden
Many foreigners living in Sweden want to stay in the country but struggle to find a job, despite having relevant qualifications. The Local spoke to three experts for their advice.
What you need to know about applying to university in Sweden
Thinking of taking a university course in your spare time in Sweden? Applications for the spring semester opened on September 15th. Here's everything you need to know to get started with your application.
Seven things you need to know before coming to Sweden to study
You’ve been accepted to university in Sweden, accepted your spot, and applied for your residence permit. Now it's time to prepare for your move. Maybe you’re wondering what life in Sweden will be like? Here are some tips based on my first year living in Lund, where I'm currently studying.
What you need to know before moving to Sweden
Starting a new life overseas is an adventure and a challenge, and however much research you do beforehand, there are bound to be aspects of the local culture or bureaucracy that come as a surprise.
How to sell your house or apartment in Sweden – six key points
If you want to sell your house or apartment it's a good idea to prepare well in advance, but you may not always have that option. These are six things you should be considering if you need or want to make a sale.
Eleven types of foreigner you might meet in Sweden
It's easy to work out why someone might want to move to a country like Spain, France or Italy. The reasons people come to Sweden tend to be much more varied. Here are some of the main types of foreigner you're likely to meet.
Reader question: How do you meet the requirements for a sambo visa?
In Sweden, a sambo is a domestic partner – someone you’re in a relationship with and live with, but to whom you aren’t married. If you, as a non-EU citizen, are in a sambo relationship with a Swedish citizen, you can apply for a residence permit on the basis of that relationship. But meeting the requirements of that permit is not always straightforward.
Checklist: How to move to Sweden as an American
If American politics has you thinking of leaving the US – or indeed if you want to move to Sweden for love, work, adventure or any other reason – there are some hurdles to overcome first. Here's a look at the various routes available to US citizens.
EXPLAINED: What do you need to do to retire to Sweden?
Although Sweden may be a less popular retirement destination than other European countries like Spain or Portugal, there are many pensioners who plan on retiring in the Nordic country. What are the rules for foreigners?
Can I get a Swedish mortgage without permanent residency?
The Swedish rental market is notoriously difficult for immigrants to break into, so many consider buying a property instead. But can you get a Swedish mortgage without a permanent residence permit?
Swedish holiday homes: How to buy the summer house of your dreams
Many people in Sweden have a summer house or 'sommarstuga' to escape to during their long holidays. Getting one of your own can be easier than you think – and can be surprisingly affordable, despite the increased cost of living.
TELL US: What are the best districts in Malmö for foreigners?
From lively, ethnically mixed Möllevången to upmarket Limhamn or Västra Hamnen, Malmö has a huge variety of districts to choose from. We want to hear from readers about which is best for foreigners.
How to buy your own Swedish island
Ever felt like spending your summers lounging around on your own island? Or have you always wanted to build a James Bond-style supervillain fort in the middle of the Stockholm archipelago?
'An international hub': These are the best districts for foreigners in Gothenburg
Majorna, the long-gentrified former working class district of central Gothenburg, and the adjoining Linné have been ranked the best district for foreigners in the city by readers of The Local, although many readers also rated Hisingen as a convenient and comfortable place to settle.
'Open-minded and cosmopolitan': The Stockholm districts foreigners like the most
Södermalm, Stockholm's most artsy and bohemian quarter, has been ranked the best district for foreigners in the city by readers of The Local, with Solna, Vasastan, Täby, and Sollentuna also given the thumbs up by internationals.
How can I stay in Sweden if I lose my job?
Losing your work permit doesn’t necessarily mean there’s no chance you can stay in Sweden. But what other permits are there, and how do you qualify?
EXPLAINED: The various types of permanent residency documents in Sweden
There are multiple types of permanent residence documents or statuses in Sweden, which can lead to confusion about residency status. The application processes and rights granted depend on your citizenship and what you're doing in Sweden.
Migration Agency to process visas for family of Swedes abroad in 90 days
From January 12th, the Migration Agency has adopted a new pledge to process visas for family members of Swedes abroad wishing to return home in 90 days or less.
Where can you go for help if you have an immigration issue in Sweden?
When something goes wrong when applying for and extending permits, or seeking permanent residence or citizenship, it's often a good idea to get expert help. Here's our guide to the private law firms and websites, non-government organisations, and government websites that can help you get the right support.
CHECKLIST: Everything you need to do when you move house in Sweden
Whether you're moving to a new rented apartment or have bought your home, there are lots of things to keep track of to help the move go smoothly.
The Swedish way: How Gothenburg is shaping the future of transportation
The future is never far from the mind in Gothenburg. The city is in the midst of massive urban development programme that will nearly double its size, making room for 45,000 new inhabitants and 60,000 jobs in the city centre by 2030.