Student Relocation Guide: Moving to Stockholm for Studies

Planning to move to Stockholm for your studies? This beautiful and vibrant city has a lot to offer, but relocating can be a daunting experience.

The Swedish capital, Stockholm, is an exciting city filled with opportunities, culture, and innovation. To help you with your student relocation to Stockholm, we've created this comprehensive guide to make your move as smooth as possible.

Apply for a Residence Permit

Before moving to Stockholm for studies, you'll need to secure a residence permit. The Swedish Migration Agency requires non-EU/EEA students to apply for a residence permit for studies. Processing times vary, so make sure to apply early. You can find more information regarding the process of applying on the Swedish Migration Agency's website.

Look for Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation in Stockholm is crucial for a comfortable student life. Stockholm has a competitive housing market, so it's crucial to start your search early. Begin by looking for student accommodations provided by universities or private housing options. In Stockholm, around 50% of the students live in shared accommodation, making it a popular choice for a cost-effective and social living experience.

Hemavi can make this process much easier. As a matchmaking platform for roommates and shared accommodations, Hemavi focuses on safety and compatibility between roommates. By signing for our services, you can find a compatible roommate and a comfortable living situation that meets your needs.

Budget for your Living Expenses

Living in Stockholm can be expensive. Be prepared to budget for rent, food, transportation, and other expenses. As a rough guide, international students should expect to spend around SEK 8,000-10,000 per month on living costs. Sharing accommodation can help reduce your expenses, making your stay in Stockholm more affordable.

Get Familiar with the Public Transportation System

Stockholm's public transportation system is highly efficient, with buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Familiarize yourself with SL, the city's public transport operator, which serves over 800,000 daily commuters. Purchase an SL card and explore various student discounts available to make your daily commute affordable – students can save up to 50% on monthly travel passes.

Register with the Swedish Tax Agency

Once you arrive in Sweden, you'll need to register with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to obtain your personnummer. This number is essential for accessing various services, such as healthcare and opening a bank account. Visit the nearest Skatteverket office and bring your residence permit, passport, and proof of admission to a Swedish university.

Open a Swedish Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Sweden will make managing your finances easier. To open an account, you'll need a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer), a valid ID, and proof of address. Some banks may also require proof of your student status. As of 2021, there were over 120 banks operating in Sweden, offering various account options tailored to students, so make sure you do your research and select the one that is most suitable for you.

Get a Swedish SIM card

Having a local phone number can make your life easier in Stockholm, particularly in helping you stay connected with friends and family back home. Purchase a Swedish SIM card to make calls, send texts, and access the internet at a lower cost than using your home country's provider. There are various mobile carriers with different plans to choose from, so research the best option for your needs and budget.

Learn a Little Bit of Swedish

While most Swedes speak fluent English, learning some Swedish can help you better integrate into the local community. Look for language courses at your university or local language centers.

Familiarize yourself with Swedish customs and culture

To make the most of your time in Stockholm, learn about Swedish customs and traditions. Swedes value punctuality, personal space, and environmental consciousness. Learn about customs like fika (Swedish coffee break), lagom (the concept of balance), and the importance of punctuality. By understanding these cultural norms, you'll feel more comfortable and enjoy a smoother integration into Swedish society.

Network and make friends

One of the most important aspects of studying abroad is building a network of friends and acquaintances. Stockholm is home to over 90,000 university students, making it a vibrant and diverse environment to develop your social network, so you'll definitely find a crowd that suits you. Join clubs and societies at your university, attend events, and engage with your peers. And remember – Hemavi's matchmaking platform ensures that you'll have compatible roommates, providing an excellent foundation for building friendships and connections.

Explore Stockholm and Beyond

Make the most of your time in Stockholm by exploring the city's rich history, architecture, and natural beauty. Visit museums, galleries, and parks, and take advantage of Sweden's allemansrätten (right of public access) to explore the countryside. Stockholm boasts over 50 museums and 400 parks, providing ample opportunities for cultural and recreational experiences.

Conclusion

Moving to Stockholm for studies can be a life-changing experience. By following these steps and using Hemavi to find your ideal accommodation, you'll set yourself up for a successful and memorable time in this vibrant city.

With Hemavi, you can focus on your studies and enjoy Stockholm to the fullest, knowing that you have a safe and compatible living arrangement. Sign up today and take the first step toward an unforgettable experience in Stockholm!