Are you thinking of moving to Sweden from the UK?

Perhaps you have already decided on the move, or you are just in the early stages.

But what is drawing Brits to life in Sweden?

Sweden consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable countries, and it’s easy to see why.

From its progressive values and stunning natural scenery to its excellent healthcare and education systems, this Nordic nation offers UK expats a refreshing mix of quality of life and opportunity.

Whether you’re drawn by the laid-back lifestyle, a greener environment, or a stronger work-life balance, Sweden ticks many boxes for those seeking a higher standard of living.

Stockholm’s stylish urban pulse, Gothenburg’s maritime charm, and Malmö’s multicultural energy all provide exciting backdrops for a fresh start.

You’ll also find Swedes to be environmentally conscious, socially inclusive, and generally welcoming, especially to families.

The pull towards Sweden isn’t just emotional, it’s practical too. The country offers excellent infrastructure, digital innovation, and world-class public services.

Securing Your Place: Visas and Residency Explained

Since Brexit, British nationals are no longer automatically entitled to live in Sweden without a visa.

If you’re planning to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit through the Swedish Migration Agency. The type of permit depends on your reason for moving, such as work, study, family ties, or other personal reasons.

Processing times vary, so apply well in advance.

Once in Sweden, you’ll need to register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain a personal identity number, known as a personnummer.

This number is vital, and it opens the door to adult study, healthcare, employment, banking, and more.

Start your application here: https://www.migrationsverket.se

A Look at Working in Sweden

Sweden’s visa rules have tightened up lately.

If you’re coming from the UK, you now have to start with a six-month trial visa and apply again later if you want to stay longer.

This change has made the process slower, especially for people applying from outside the country. It takes time and patience, but it is well worth the effort to achieve a longer stay.

Sweden’s job market is diverse, innovative, and increasingly international.

UK professionals with skills in tech, engineering, healthcare, and education are particularly in demand.

You can view the current 17 most in-demand jobs in the country via the Swedish immigration website.

Fluency in English is a significant asset, especially in cities like Stockholm and Malmö, where global companies are prevalent.

You’ll find job listings on platforms like Arbetsförmedlingen (the Swedish Public Employment Service) and Jobbsafari.

That said, learning Swedish, at least conversationally, can significantly boost your chances of landing roles and integrating into the workplace.

Sweden also stands out for its flat organisational structures and commitment to work-life balance.

UK expats can expect generous parental leave and flexible working arrangements, allowing them to work from home on some days and attend the office a few days a week.

Alongside these benefits, all employees are entitled to 25 days’ holiday per year, and an additional 9 public holidays are included in this total.

Additionally, you have the right to save a number of your holiday days each year for a maximum of 5 years.

Therefore, if possible at your workplace, you can have more holidays one year than another.

In short, Sweden’s work culture is characterised by a focus on balance, fairness, and teamwork.

Being progressive and placing a strong focus on aspects like equality and a healthy work-life balance helps spark new ideas and keep employees happy, and it works!

What Does It Cost to Live in Sweden?

If you have been considering a move to Sweden, you will likely have already determined that it isn’t a budget destination and is more expensive than many other European destinations.

However, surprisingly, it is cheaper than the UK, according to two popular cost-of-living websites – Numbeo and Livingcost.org. When comparing London and Stockholm.

If your budget isn’t huge, consider living outside Sweden’s major cities, where prices can be very affordable.

For example, in towns like Uppsala or Västerås, housing costs are more reasonable and still within commuting distance of the capital.

However, Sweden’s higher costs are often offset by excellent public services and potentially higher wages. While taxes are higher, they directly fund these benefits.

Rent, groceries, and dining out can be more expensive than in the UK, particularly in Stockholm, but salaries also reflect this.

Public healthcare, childcare (significantly cheaper than the UK), and university education are either subsidised or free.

While Sweden may not be the cheapest place to live, many expats find the quality of life more than justifies the cost.

Careful budgeting and selecting the right location can help you enjoy all that Sweden has to offer without breaking the bank.

Finding a Home in Sweden: Rent or Buy?

The Swedish housing market can be highly competitive, especially in urban areas.

Most new arrivals begin by renting, as buying property requires local knowledge and a longer-term commitment.

Rental queues can be long due to a national shortage of apartments, so consider temporary furnished lets while you search.

Websites like Bostad Direkt and Blocket Bostad are great for short-term rentals.

If you’re planning to buy, foreigners are allowed to purchase property with few restrictions.

You’ll find a range of homes are available from modern urban flats to rustic countryside cottages.

Wise has put together a great step-by-step blog about how to buy a home in Sweden, and Swedenexpat.com has compiled an equally helpful blog with helpful tips about renting a home as a foreigner in Sweden.

Healthcare in Sweden: A Guide for Expats

Sweden is renowned for its exceptional public healthcare system, which significantly contributes to the country’s high life expectancy rates.

Overseen by the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, the system is funded through taxation and offers universal access to all legal residents.

Once you’ve received your personnummer (personal identification number), you’ll be eligible for subsidised healthcare, including doctor appointments, hospital care, and specialist services.

While patients do pay a small fee for each visit, there’s an annual cap to ensure affordability.

Many new arrivals choose to take out private health insurance to bridge the gap before their registration is complete.

The good news is that English-speaking healthcare staff are widely available, particularly in cities and larger towns.

If you’re concerned about the quality or accessibility of medical care in Sweden, rest assured that the system is designed to be fair, efficient, and accessible to all.

Education in Sweden: Schools for UK Families

From the age of six, all children in Sweden are entitled to free education.

Schooling is compulsory for ten years and widely praised for its inclusive, student-centred approach.

Swedish schools are renowned for fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere that promotes curiosity and equality.

English is taught as a core subject from an early age, which can be reassuring for international families.

For many expats, this makes local schools a viable and appealing alternative to international or IB schools.

Sweden provides excellent education options, including public, independent, and international schools.

Many families moving from the UK decide to choose an international school for their children,  which follows the British or IB curriculum.

Notable options include the British International School of Stockholm and Internationella Engelska Skolan, which operates across the country.

Visit the International Citizen Hub for more information about education in Sweden.

Embracing Swedish Culture: What Daily Life Looks Like

Swedes value fairness, modesty, and community spirit, and these values are evident in their day-to-day lives.

You’ll notice an appreciation for nature, sustainable living, and uncluttered design.

Fika, the daily coffee-and-cake ritual, isn’t just about food; it’s a cultural touchpoint built around slowing down and socialising.

Public transport is clean and efficient. Biking is encouraged. And while social interactions may seem reserved at first, Swedish people are friendly and sincere once you break the ice.

Swedes value punctuality, minimal small talk, and work-life balance.

By taking the time to understand Swedish cultural norms, you will find integrating so much easier.

Sweden’s Climate: Sunlight, Snow and Everything Between

It is beneficial to know what to expect from the weather before making the final decision to move to Sweden.

Perhaps one of the downsides is the winter months. Though there are distinct seasons, winters are long and dark, especially in the north, with snowfall common from November to March.

There is an upside, however; in contrast, Swedish summers bring extended daylight, up to 18 hours in Stockholm, and even the midnight sun in Lapland.

This dramatic seasonal swing shapes the culture. Winter is about indoor cosiness, known as mys, while summer bursts with life, outdoor festivals, and swimming in pristine lakes.

Weather varies significantly by region.

The south, including Malmö, has milder winters, while the north offers world-class skiing and magical snow-covered landscapes.

Hitting the Road: Driving in Sweden

Driving in Sweden is straightforward for UK nationals.

You can use your UK driving licence for up to 12 months, after which it must be exchanged for a Swedish one through Transportstyrelsen (the Swedish Transport Agency)

Sweden’s roads are well-maintained and safe, with drivers generally polite and patient.

Winter tyres are mandatory between December and March, and you should be aware of wildlife crossings, especially in rural areas.

Public transport is excellent in most urban areas, so many expats opt for a car-free lifestyle, although owning a vehicle is useful for exploring the country’s beautiful countryside.

The RAC has an excellent guide with plenty of advice about driving in Sweden.

The Swedish Krona: Currency Basics

Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) rather than the euro.

While most transactions are digital, many places don’t even accept cash, you’ll want a good understanding of exchange rates and mobile payment apps like Swish.

SEK tends to offer good value compared to the pound, though fluctuations occur.

Consider opening a Swedish bank account early to avoid international card fees and simplify day-to-day payments.

For current exchange rates, see: https://www.xe.com/currency/sek-swedish-krona

Opening a Bank Account in Sweden

To open a Swedish bank account, you’ll need your personnummer and a valid photo ID.

Major banks like SEB, Handelsbanken, and Swedbank offer services in English, and most allow you to set up online banking and mobile apps.

Expect to use BankID, Sweden’s national digital ID, for everything from signing documents to accessing healthcare. It’s secure and widely used.

Start by visiting the local branch once you’ve settled. Some expats use services like Revolut or Wise as a temporary solution until they obtain their personal number.

What Expats Should Know About Swedish Taxes

Sweden has a reputation for high taxes, but those taxes fund the excellent public services you’ll rely on.

Income tax is progressive and varies depending on where you live, ranging from 30% to 55%. Employers handle much of the paperwork, and taxes are automatically deducted.

UK expats living in Sweden for more than 183 days a year become tax residents.

You may need to coordinate between the UK and Swedish tax authorities, especially if you receive pensions or rental income from abroad.

Read more at: Skatteverket

Understanding Customs and Import Regulations for Sweden

When relocating to Sweden, it’s essential to be aware of the country’s customs and import requirements for personal belongings.

The good news is that if you’ve lived outside Sweden for at least 12 months and your household items have been owned and used for more than six months, you can usually import them free of customs duties and VAT.

To qualify for this exemption, you’ll need to provide specific documents such as a detailed packing list, a copy of your passport, proof of your previous and new address, and your Swedish residency documentation.

Sweden has restrictions on importing certain items, including weapons, some plants, and large amounts of alcohol. Electrical items must comply with EU safety regulations, so it’s wise to check what’s permitted before you pack.

Barnes of Lincoln will guide you through all the necessary paperwork and ensure your belongings clear Swedish customs without delays or hassle.

For up-to-date guidance, refer to the FIDI customs regulations for Sweden, which include a downloadable guide.

Planning the Move? Barnes of Lincoln Can Help

If you’re ready to make Sweden your next chapter, having a trusted removals partner can make all the difference.

Barnes of Lincoln offers two main removal options to Sweden: full-load and part-load services.

If you’re relocating your entire household, a dedicated vehicle will deliver your belongings directly to your new home in Sweden. This is the quickest and most flexible solution, ideal for families or those relocating to a new home.

For smaller shipments, our part-load service is a more budget-friendly alternative. Your belongings will share space with other consignments, helping you cut costs without compromising on care.

We also provide expert packing services using premium materials, ensuring your possessions are securely wrapped and transported from door to door.

Need storage? We offer flexible short- and long-term storage options in both the UK and Sweden.

If you’re planning a phased move, just let our team know during your pre-move survey; we’re happy to help arrange the timing to suit your needs.

Our experienced team will handle all customs documentation, detailed inventories, and international logistics, making your move to Sweden as smooth and stress-free as possible, whether you’re settling in Stockholm, Malmö, or Gothenburg.

Let us take the stress out of moving, so you can focus on settling into your new life in Sweden.