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In this guide with moving to Sweden tips, you’ll learn about visa options, moving companies and costs, and what it’s like to work and live in Sweden.
Below are the average costs of moving to Sweden from the US. The price ranges are based on sea freight and a shared container for the one-bedroom. When moving to Sweden with a family, you’ll likely occupy an entire container.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom apartment | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Three-bedroom house | $8,000 – $15,000 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. To get accurate an accurate cost, request free quotes here.
Save money on moving from the US to Sweden by choosing sea freight, which is slower but cheaper. It usually takes 4-6 weeks. Air freight is faster but much pricier. If your shipment volume doesn’t occupy an entire container, you can share a container with others and pay less.
Calculate Your Furniture’s VolumeMoving household goods to Sweden is a huge undertaking, so it’s good to be well-prepared! When browsing international moving companies to Sweden, focus on reliability, expertise, and customer support. Look for reputable movers experienced with overseas transportation. Movers that include packing and storage can simplify your move.
On Sirelo, you can browse US removal companies and read through trustworthy, real reviews. Based on these reviews, here are the 5 best companies for moving to Sweden as an American:
For stays shorter than 90 days, there’s no need to apply for a visa to Sweden from the USA. If you intend to be employed or move to Sweden long-term, a visa or residence permit is required. In the next section, we’ll look at the moving to Sweden requirements.
Long-term visitors and American citizens wanting to work in Sweden need to apply for a residence permit. The Swedish Migration Agency manages applications and you can submit yours online or via a Swedish embassy or consulate.
US citizens who want to do business in Sweden need a work permit, which can take several weeks to months to process. Here’s how to get a work visa for Sweden.
Spouses of work visa holders can apply for residence permits, but the visa holder needs to have sufficient funds to support the dependents.
There are various visa options for Americans who want to live in Sweden long-term. Most Sweden residence permits are valid for 1 to 2 years with the option to renew and eventually transition into permanent residency.
US nationals can become Swedish citizens after living in the country for at least five years, or three when married to a Swedish citizen. You need to show financial stability and comply with the Swedish laws. Dual citizenship for Sweden and the USA is allowed.
Bringing your furry friend to Sweden involves careful planning to meet the European Union’s strict pet import rules. Here’s what you need to know:
Stockholm is one of Europe’s pricier places, in line with other Scandinavian cities. If you’re coming from New York, you’ll save money as the cost of living in Stockholm is approximately 37% lower without rent. If you’re moving to Sweden from Houston, your costs will be around 3% higher. The salaries in Sweden are significantly lower compared to the US.
With the many American states and different Swedish, it’s tricky to cover Sweden’s cost of living vs. the US. To give you an idea, we’ll look at the cost of living in Stockholm, Sweden compared to more expensive New York and the more affordable Houston.
| Item | Stockholm, Sweden | New York, USA | Houston, USA |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $13.62 | $30.00 | $18.00 |
| Regular Cappuccino | $4.21 | $5.95 | $5.25 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $3.87 | $3.49 | $5.06 |
| Single Transport Ticket | $3.81 | $2.90 | $2.25 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre) | $1,473.78 | $1,589.62 | $4,083.56 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | $3,440.61 | $4,414.7 | $5,563.31 |
Source: Numbeo
Sweden is renowned for its high quality of life and excellent public services. While living in Sweden isn’t cheap, the healthcare, sustainability efforts, and education are amazing. Though often reserved, the Swedish population is friendly and many people speak English well, making it easy for American expats to live in Sweden.
Thanks to its safety, environmental focus, and well-oiled public transportation, Sweden is one of the world’s most liveable countries—especially for families. Americans moving to Sweden should account for high living costs and tax rates, especially in Stockholm. The tax rates do include comprehensive healthcare, free schooling, and well-maintained public spaces.
Life in Sweden differs from the American lifestyle. The social norms are centered around humility and consensus, which makes the Swedes more reserved. The winters can be cold and dark, but the beautiful winter landscapes and cozy cultural traditions like their “fika” coffee breaks add charm to daily life. It can take time to adjust to the slower pace of life and reserved social dynamics, but US expats love the balance between work and life.
While many American nationals move to the capital, there are plenty of other Swedish cities with vibrant expat communities and perks.
Is moving to Sweden a good idea? If you’re looking for a quality, safe life with excellent public services and public transport, then absolutely yes. A healthy work-life balance makes for a great living, but the high taxes, costs, and dark winters can be a turnoff.
Let’s talk about what it’s like for Americans working in Sweden. The Swedish market is known for its innovation, with exciting opportunities in tech, green energy, and design. Adjusting to the work culture can be a challenge for Americans, as there is minimal hierarchy, lots of teamwork, and a focus on personal time. Americans find the Swedish work culture more relaxed than in the US.
The most common path for Americans to work in Sweden is to secure a job with a local employer. Alternative options are the self-employment visa, study visa, intra-company transfer, or family reunification visa.
A typical work week in Sweden has 40 hours or fewer, which is a lot more relaxed than in most American companies. Efficiency is key and employees can be flexible with their working hours. There’s a generous parental leave and vacation allowance of a minimum of 25 days each year.
Sweden does not offer a retirement visa, but Americans can retire in Sweden if they can prove financial independence to cover their living expenses. Tax-paying retirees benefit from Sweden’s top healthcare and public services.
Before deciding to start a new life in Sweden, there are a few things to know. Use this moving to Sweden checklist to make sure you tick off all the necessary to-dos!
