Working in Sweden: tips for immigrants

Lennart Beck,  Wednesday, 26 July 2023

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Are you considering moving to Sweden and working there? The country has a lot to offer: a high quality of life, a relaxed working environment, and exciting job opportunities. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know to be successful in Sweden.

Job Opportunities and Living in Sweden:
There are many different job opportunities in Sweden, especially in the fields of IT, engineering, medicine, and nursing. The quality of life is high, the people are friendly, and the nature is simply beautiful. Moreover, Swedes place great value on a good work- life balance.

Residence rights for EU citizens:
As an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to work in Sweden. However, if you plan to stay longer than three months, you need to register with the Swedish Migration Agency.

Skills Shortage in Sweden:
There is a shortage of skilled workers in some sectors in Sweden. These include in particular healthcare, IT, and engineering. This provides good opportunities for well-trained employees who are willing to move to the country.

German-Swedish Economic Relations:
Germany is one of Sweden's most important trading partners, and many German companies are based in Sweden. This can be advantageous for German emigrants, as it may be easier to find a job in a German-Swedish company.

Requirements to work in Sweden:
In order to work in Sweden, you need a personal number or a coordination number. These numbers are required for many everyday things, such as opening a bank account or taking out insurance.

Job search in Sweden:
There are various ways to look for jobs in Sweden. These include online job portals, newspapers, employment agencies, and personal contacts. Networking and social media can also be helpful in finding suitable job offers.

Swedish application documents:
In Sweden, applications are usually less formal than in Germany. A cover letter, a CV, and possibly references are the most important components of an application. Photos are not strictly necessary. The application can be written in Swedish or English, depending on the language indicated in the job advertisement.

Wages and salaries in Sweden:
Wages in Sweden are often higher compared to Germany. However, the cost of living, especially for rent and food, is also higher. Wage differences between genders in Sweden are smaller than in many other countries.

Taxes and insurance in Sweden:
Taxes in Sweden are higher compared to Germany, but the social benefits are more extensive. Social insurance is mandatory for all employees and includes health, pension, and unemployment insurance among other things.

Visa requirements for EU citizens:
EU citizens do not require a visa to work in Sweden. However, if you stay for more than three months, you need to register with the Migration Agency.

Work ethic and working conditions in Sweden:
The work ethic in Sweden is characterized by a high degree of personal responsibility and team spirit. Flexibility and a balanced work-life balance are taken for granted in many companies. Working conditions are often family-friendly, and parents are entitled to extensive parental leave arrangements.

Moving to Sweden (language, apartment search):
When you move to Sweden, it is recommended to at least acquire basic knowledge of the Swedish language. This facilitates integration and job search. Finding an apartment, especially in larger cities, can be a challenge. It is advisable to start the search early and use all available channels, such as online portals, newspaper ads, and personal contacts.

Conclusion:
Sweden offers numerous opportunities for people who want to live and work in the country. The quality of life is high, the working conditions are attractive, and there are good chances for qualified professionals in various industries. If you are considering emigrating to Sweden, you should prepare well for the move, inform yourself about the legal framework conditions, and expand your language skills. Then nothing stands in the way of your adventure in the high north!