Before you travel to Sweden to study
Preparing for studies in Sweden is exciting, but it also requires some thoughtful planning. Starting early will make your transition smoother and help you get the most out of your time abroad.
Practical preparations
Apply for a residence permit (if required)
If you’re a non‑EU/EEA citizen, you must apply for a residence permit through the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket). Make sure your permit is approved before you travel - you cannot enter Sweden and wait for the decision there.
Check your travel documents
Passport rules vary depending on your citizenship. Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay, and check whether you need a visa for transit countries as well.
Search for accommodation early
Explore student housing, rental apartments, and private rooms. It can be difficult to find housing, especially in the larger cities. The earlier you start looking, the better your chances of finding something suitable.
Review your insurance coverage
Find out what your insurance covers abroad, especially regarding healthcare, accidents, and personal belongings. Bring printed insurance certificates with you.
Save a pdf of your notification of selection results
Download a copy of your admission letter - you’ll need it for the Migration Agency, the Swedish Tax Agency, and sometimes even for housing applications.
Prepare your mobile phone
If your foreign phone plan is expensive in Sweden, turn off data roaming and voicemail until you get a Swedish SIM card. Add an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact to your phone. Also check whether you need a plug adapter (Sweden uses Type F).
Credit card safety
Write down the number you need to call to block your credit card in case you lose it or it is stolen. Keep this information somewhere separate from your wallet.
Support at your higher education institution
Student health services differ between institutions. If you rely on mental health support at home, check what’s available at your Swedish university. Students with permanent disabilities can receive tailored academic support - contact your university early to arrange this.
Registering with the Swedish Tax Agency
If you’re staying for more than a year, you’ll need to register with Skatteverket to receive a personal identity number (personnummer). This number makes everyday life much easier.
Understanding Sweden before you arrive
Do your cultural research
Learning about Swedish customs, social norms, and everyday life will help you settle in faster. Try to find out cultural “do's and dont's” and attitudes that may be different from your home country. Having advance knowledge can be helpful if you find things to be very different. Student blogs at studyinsweden.se offer honest insights into life as an international student.
The Swedish climate
Sweden has four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from –30°C to +30°C depending on the region. Make sure you adapt your wardrobe to the climate. Pack clothes that can be layered.
Darkness during wintertime
In December, daylight can be as short as six hours (even less in the north). Many newcomers find the lack of sunlight challenging. Reading about “winter blues” and preparing strategies — like staying active and getting outside during daylight — can make a big difference.
Finances and budgeting
Sweden is known for its high cost of living. Before arriving, make a realistic budget for food, transportation, and leisure. Look into student discounts - they’re everywhere, from public transport to museums.
Once you’ve checked off these preparations, you’ll be well on your way to an enjoyable start of your study experience in Sweden.
Last updated: 2026-03-10