How to apply for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer)
Here we summarize the steps you need to take to become registered in the Swedish Population Register and obtain a Swedish personal identity number. The information is based on guidance from the Swedish Tax Agency, and more detailed information can be found on their website.
In order to obtain a Swedish personal identity number, you need to be listed in the Swedish Population Register. That means you are registered as resident in Sweden, with personal data such as your name, address, date of birth and civil status.
As a student you can be registered in the Swedish Population Register, if you show that you will be studying and living in Sweden for at least one year. If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you need to have right of residence in Sweden as a student before you can be listed in the Swedish Population Register.
The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) decides if you meet the conditions for being listed in the Swedish Population Register.
Notify the Swedish tax agency of your move to Sweden
Use the Swedish tax agency´s Moving to Sweden (Flytta till Sverige) e-service. If you need help using the e-service you can visit a service centre. Find your nearest service centre here: Link to The Swedish Tax Agency.
Book an appointment to visit a service centre for an identity check
You need to visit a selected service centre in person for an identity check when you have arrived in Sweden. When you visit the centre you must provide:
- Proof of your identity, for example a passport or national identity card.
- Your full address details. Make sure that your name is on the door or the post box in the entrance.
- Confirmation that you will study in Sweden. Show a registration certificate or a corresponding document, and your admission notice.
- Details about your family relationships since your civil status will be registered. If you have never been married you don´t need to show any documentation regarding your civil status.
Applying for an ID card
When you have been assigned a personal identity number, you can apply to the Swedish Tax Agency or the Swedish Police for an ID card.