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Europe · WorldSimple country guide

Sweden

Sweden combines strong public services with substantial housing pressure in Stockholm. Gothenburg and Malmö offer different industry, climate and cross-border tradeoffs.

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CurrencySEK
CitiesStockholm · Gothenburg · Malmö
Best forSkilled workPublic transportNordic city life

Choose your base

Where to start in Sweden

Stockholm

Best for: Largest job and international market.

Watch: Housing queues and second-hand rentals require planning.

Gothenburg

Best for: Industry, port and west-coast city life.

Watch: Weather and tram corridors influence neighborhood value.

Malmö

Best for: Compact city with Copenhagen access.

Watch: Cross-border travel can change tax and work considerations.

01

Housing availability can matter more than price

Stockholm especially requires a realistic second-hand rental strategy.

Compare the full package of rent, transit and commute rather than chasing a central postcode.

02

Official planning checkpoint

Entry and longer-stay rules depend on nationality, duration and purpose.

Use the official government source linked below for the latest requirements before making commitments.

03

Transit supports car-free living

Stockholm metro/rail, Gothenburg trams and Malmö cycling/rail make all three practical without a car.

Regional trains also make Malmö–Copenhagen and wider Swedish travel relevant to housing choices.

Checked 2026-10-08

Sources & checks

Rules change. Use these references as a starting point and recheck time-sensitive information with the competent official authority.

Swedish Migration Agency — self-employed ↗SJ rail ↗

Use anywhere

Planning guides for Sweden