Did you know that Sweden is popular for being one of the best countries in the world for quality of life? Not only that, but the region has stunning landscapes, and the people are quite friendly. So it’s no wonder you want to move to Sweden with your family. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of a family relocation to Sweden.
However, like most countries in the world, there are specific rules when it comes to immigrating to Sweden. To assist you, we’ve provided a short guide on what you need to know before relocating to this beautiful land of opportunities.
Using the Right Moving Company
Before you even consider getting Visas or jobs in Sweden, you need to find a company that can move your belongings across the ocean. Look for the best moving companies that offer:
- The best prices
- Safety insurance in case of theft damage
- Various ways to package your belongings
- Furniture storage before you arrive in Sweden
- One large container to move all your items abroad
The cost of moving overseas can be extremely expensive especially when you’re moving your belongings. So you’ll need to find a company that offers competitive pricing. The average cost of moving a one-bedroom house to Sweden can be $2700.
Related: What’s Like to be a Digital Nomad in Sweden
Everything You Need to Know Ahead of a Family Relocation to Sweden, read on….
The Legal Aspects of Moving to Sweden
When moving to Sweden, you must apply for a residence permit in advance. You can complete your application on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website. If your application is approved, you can travel to Sweden using the approval notification. When you arrive, you can complete the process.
On the other hand, if you’re not working in the country, you can apply for residency if you’re marrying a Swedish citizen or if your parents are citizens. If you are planning on working in the country, then you’ll need to apply for a work permit and secure a job before moving.
Overall, you’ll need the following to apply for a work permit:
- A valid passport
- Job offered to you
- Your salary must be able to support your stay
- The employer must offer you a pension and insurance
Plan Your Finances Before Moving
Sweden taxes its citizens. So if you want to move to the country, you must register with the tax agency. This is something you’ll have to do when you arrive in Sweden. To apply, you’ll need your passport, residence permit card, and any documents such as marriage and birth certificates.
You should also calculate your cost of living before you immigrate. Sweden is one of the most expensive countries to live in, so it’s important to manage your budget accordingly. Here is a table that shows you the average cost of living:
Activity or Item |
Cost in US Dollars |
| Transportation for one month | $86 |
| One-bedroom rented apartment in the city | $809 per month |
| Rented one-bedroom apartment outside the city | $614 per month |
| 1-liter milk | $1.19 |
| Loaf of white bread | $2.25 |
| 12 eggs | $2.98 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $10 per person |
| Mcdonalds Meals | $8 |
| Basic utilities (Electricity, water, garbage, etc.) | $78.99 |
| Schools (primary) | $2707 per child for 1-year |
Guidelines for Moving Your Pets to Sweden
If you have pets, they must have original rabies certificates signed by a certified vet. Additionally, the rabies vaccine must be 21 days old at the time of your pet’s final health examination.
Dogs must be vaccinated for distemper, Parainfluenza, Hepatitis, and Bordetella. Cats must be vaccinated against Calicivirus, Panleukopenia, and Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis. Other certificates you must have for your pet include:
- Microchip Implantation Record
- EU Vet Health Certificate
- Airline Health Certificate
Healthcare
One of the reasons people love Sweden is because the government looks after its people. With that being said, the health care system is public and paid by your taxes. So you won’t pay for any health care services unless you choose private care.
You may need to take out private health insurance if you’re not yet a permanent resident in Sweden. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card to access state health care during their stay.
You may need to take out private health insurance if you’re not yet permanent resident in Sweden. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card to access state health care during their stay.
Readers interested in learning more about the EHIC can find a comprehensive guide on VisaGuide.World.
Everything You Need to Know Ahead of a Family Relocation to Sweden, read on….
Related: Growing Job Fields in Sweden
Childcare and Certifications
Citizens can place their children into public daycare when they reach the age of 1. You must place your children in a primary school when they turn 7. Daycare charges families based on their monthly income. You can also get basic babysitting options or childminding services.
Furthermore, in order to experience the benefits of childcare in Sweden, your kids must be citizens of the EU. Children must have a permanent residence permit, and you must have valid passports and certifications for your child to become a citizen.
Related: How To Apply For a Swedish Work Visa
Learn The Swedish Language
When you move to a country where the first language isn’t English, it’s a good idea to learn the basics of the language before you move. Many Swedish people speak English, but you may come across someone who doesn’t.
Use tools such as Babble to learn the basics of the Swedish language. You’ll then be able to communicate with people, which helps if you’re experiencing an emergency.
Everything You Need to Know Ahead of a Family Relocation to Sweden – Final Thoughts
It can be challenging moving to a new country, especially if it’s located in the EU. But if you use the tips provided in this article, you may be successful in becoming a Swedish citizen.
Everything You Need to Know Ahead of a Family Relocation to Sweden, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian.
Feature image (on top) © Photo by Handiwork NYC / Unsplash