What are the biggest challenges of moving to Sweden?

Sweden boasts stunning natural beauty and tops international rankings across a range of key metrics such as quality of life and gender equality. However, moving here is not without its challenges. While everyone faces their own unique set of challenges, depending on personal circumstances, there are four areas that many internationals struggle with:

1. Visas & Registration

The application and approval process for Swedish work and residence permits can take much longer than many employers and new recruits expect. Any mistakes in the application can also lead to long delays so it’s well worth getting expert assistance to manage the process smoothly. It’s also important to understand the local registration processes and the time frames involved to get international employees and their families set up within the Swedish system, as this impacts all internationals, regardless of whether they require work and residence permits.

2. Accommodation
The biggest single challenge faced by internationals moving to Sweden is finding somewhere suitable to live. Internationals and Swedes alike face an extremely competitive and tough property market, particularly in larger cities. Having contacts who can help open doors is key to a smooth start when searching for a new home. 

3. Understanding The Swedish System

Another ongoing challenge is understanding how the system works in Sweden. Like all countries, Sweden has its own way of doing things when it comes to essential services such as schools, health care and social security. Even though a lot of general information is available online, it’s often unclear to internationals what applies in their particular case and what they need to do. Language can also be a barrier to understanding the system and to completing the necessary application and registration forms. Step by step guidance is always greatly appreciated.

3. Culture Shock

Sweden is a modern country and most people speak English well. So it’s safe to assume that integration will be easy, at least for people moving from other western countries, right? Wrong. Culture shock is common and often unanticipated. Some are affected immediately while others may enjoy a honeymoon period before culture shock sets in. Stress and uncertainty caused by dealing with another culture, system and even long winters can all contribute to culture shock. Uncertainty about how to interpret Swedish norms – either in the work place or in everyday situations – can also make interactions more challenging than expected. Culture training can make an enormous difference in helping transition.

4. Keeping Accompanying Families Happy

Moving to a new home without any work or social network can be a very isolating experience for many people.  This is exactly the situation that accompanying partners face when a family moves because of one family member’s job. This is particularly true for dual career couples where one has given up a job because of the move. Nearly everyone works in Sweden and people have therefore less free time available than in countries where it is more common for one partner or parent to be at home. As with any move to a new country,  children can also have a tough time settling into their new environment and making new friends. Finding the right support network for the whole family is usually crucial for a successful transition to life in Sweden.

Expert advice and practical support

Moving to a new country is always challenging. Whether you need help with immigration, accommodation, finding the best schools or getting quickly registered in the Swedish system, Relocate to Sweden can help your international recruits  and their families to overcome the challenges of settling in, transitioning  and building a new life in Sweden. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like assistance.

Relocate to Sweden provides expert advice and hands-on help for companies recruiting internationally or transferring staff to Sweden. We help your international recruits with the entire relocation process including immigration, home finding,registration with Swedish authorities, schools, health care and intercultural training. Email us at info@relocatetosweden.com or call us on +46 8 361011 if you would like help. You can also read more about our relocation services at www.relocatetosweden.com or follow us on social media for tips and advice.