Alfa Mobility

Move to Sweden

Planning to relocate to Sweden?

Contact Alfa!

Where 'fika' moments and modern living meet

Imagine a land where crystal-clear lakes meet deep forests, where innovation and tradition blend seamlessly, and where every coffee break is an art form. If you’re planning to move to Sweden from the UK, prepare for a lifestyle that balances work, nature, and community in a way that’s uniquely Swedish.

Whether you dream of strolling Stockholm’s cobblestone streets, exploring the northern lights, or starting a new career in a vibrant tech hub, Sweden welcomes you with open arms and endless opportunities.

What do you need to move to Sweden?

If you’re a UK citizen planning to move to Sweden, there are several steps and requirements to consider. Since Brexit, British citizens are no longer treated as EU citizens, which means you’ll need to apply for the right permits to live in Sweden for longer than 90 days. Ensure you have a valid passport before starting your journey.

For those who wish to work in Sweden, you’ll typically need a job offer before applying for a work permit. Your Swedish employer will usually initiate the application process via the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket). If you plan to study in Sweden, you’ll need an admission letter from a recognised institution and to apply for a residence permit as a student. The Migration Agency’s website provides full details and step-by-step guidance for every type of application for a residence permit.

Once you receive your residence permit in Sweden, register with the Swedish Population Register at Skatteverket (the Swedish Tax Agency). This is essential for obtaining your Swedish personal identity number (personnummer), which you’ll need to access healthcare, open a Swedish bank account, and handle most aspects of daily life. If you’re bringing close family, they’ll also need to apply for permits. For pets, consult the Swedish Board of Agriculture for import regulations.

If you’re moving to Sweden from the UK for a short period (less than 90 days), you may not need a visa, but check the latest rules via Sweden Abroad or the Swedish embassy in London. If you’re a citizen of a Nordic country, the process is even more straightforward.

What is the cost of living in Sweden?

The cost of living in Sweden depends on city and lifestyle. Major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas are more affordable. Rent for city apartments is higher than outside the centre.

Groceries and everyday shopping are similar to the UK, though dining out can be pricier, with a focus on quality and sustainability. Public transport is reliable, and utilities, internet, and mobile services are comparable to other European countries.

Healthcare is largely tax-funded and generally has minimal out-of-pocket costs. Long-term residents should consider taxes, which support public services like education, social insurance, and subsidised childcare. UK state pensions can typically be transferred for eligible residents.

What is life like in Sweden?

To live in Sweden is to embrace equality, respect, and community. The Swedish way of life emphasises work-life balance, with generous parental leave, flexible working hours, and a strong focus on wellbeing. The concept of lagom – not too much, not too little – shapes social and working life.

Workplaces value flat hierarchies, teamwork, and open communication. If you work in Sweden, you’ll notice a collaborative atmosphere and strong professional development. English is widely spoken, but learning Swedish through free Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) courses helps integration and friendships.

Nature lovers thrive here: forests, lakes, and archipelagos abound. The healthcare system is world-class, and the social safety net ensures security for residents. With excellent schools and a vibrant cultural scene, Sweden is a safe, welcoming, and exciting new country to call home.

Checklist before moving to Sweden from the UK

Use our moving to Sweden checklist to keep your timeline on track

  • Check your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

  • Apply for the appropriate residence permit (work, study, or family) via the Swedish Migration Agency.

  • Secure a job offer or university admission if required.

  • Arrange health insurance for your initial period in Sweden.

  • Arrange accommodation (rental, purchase, or temporary housing).

  • Prepare documentation for opening a Swedish bank account.

  • Research tax in Sweden and register with Skatteverket upon arrival.

  • Register in the Swedish population register to obtain your personnummer.

  • If bringing animals to Sweden, follow Swedish Board of Agriculture rules.

  • Check if you need to exchange your UK license for a Swedish driving license with the Swedish Transport Agency.

  • Notify UK authorities (HMRC, NHS, local council) of your move abroad.

  • Consider SFI courses to support integration.

En affärsman tittar på sin mobil under tiden han går genom en flygplats för att resa utomlands.

How Alfa can help you move to Sweden

Efficient and affordable moves to Sweden

At Alfa, we specialise in international relocations. With years of cross-border experience, we provide sustainable, cost-effective solutions. Whether relocating with family or on your own, you can rely on a personalised, positive moving experience.

We recommend contacting us six weeks before your intended moving date. Typical door-to-door transit times within Europe are 5–10 days. Need extra time between loading and delivery? We offer storage solutions during transit. Learn more about our moving services here. Read more about our moving services here.

Additional services when moving to Sweden

We arrange a pre-move survey to estimate volume, assess access, and identify fragile items needing special packing. Pricing is transparent. Detailed customs information: FIDI, see this link.

Good to know before you move to Sweden

For EU-to-EU moves, customs formalities for household goods are usually not required. If moving from outside the EU, our team will guide you through Sweden-specific requirements for a smooth, hassle-free process.

Contact: sales@alfamoving.com.

Get a free quote here 

We look forward to making your move to Sweden smooth and stress-free.

En person som sitter i ett landskap och tittar mot solen för att få lugn och ro i flyttprocessen.
How to prepare
How to prepare
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Steps in a move
Steps in a move
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Cost for a move
Cost for a move
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Country information

Choose a country guide

With Alfa you can move almost anywhere in the world. We've gathered relevant information about moving abroad to some of our most popular destinations. If you would like information about a country not mentioned in the list, please contact our sales department at sales@alfamoving.com.

Move to Australia
Move to Austria
Move to Belgium
Move to Canada
Move to Denmark
Move to Finland
Move to France
Move to Germany
Move to Italy
Move to the Netherlands/Holland
Move to Norway
Move to Poland
Move to Portugal
Move to Spain
Move to Sweden
Move to Switzerland
Move to the United Kingdom
Move to the USA

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Customer Reflections
Smooth move to Finland
For all steps of the process, Alfa exceeded my expectations. My consultants were extremely responsive and helpful, and they contributed to making my move so smooth. I am so grateful. /Rachel
Customer Reflections
Relocating to Denmark
My relocation to Denmark went perfect. The entire Alfa team has made almost the impossible to meet my needs and expectations. All of the personnel are nice and always helped me promptly and with a smile. /Martin
Customer Reflections
Excellent Service
I'm really impressed with the help I got from the team, helping me to get the documents for my residence permit to get all other documents done at the time we arrived in Finland. We couldn’t have done it without Alfa! /Sergio
Customer Reflections
Immigration Support
My Immigration Consultant went above and beyond with the application process, which led to an immediate approval of my permanent residency. I am so grateful. /Jennifer
Customer Reflections
Relocating to Sweden
Our Destination Consultant made an excellent work before our arrival in Sweden and after we were installed. She understood perfectly our needs for an accommodation and she found quickly the place where we are now. /Jérome
Customer Reflections
Moving to Finland
We received excellent service from Alfa for all aspects of our relocation. We are very grateful for their assistance with booking appointments in Finland. Huge thank you to Alfa for professional handling our case. /Emelie
I am very satisfied with my experience with Alfa. My contact person was incredibly supportive during my move. She carefully listened to my needs and organized the search accordingly in order to find the best suitable accommodation. Great experience overall. Thank you! /Tomas
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