Move to Sweden- one of the world’s innovative nations

Sweden is known for its beautiful lakes, coastal islands, mountains, and forests. People from other countries are willing to settle here not only for the country’s scenic beauty but also because it is one of the safest places to live.

The current population of Sweden is 10.2 million and its GDP is 53,400 USD.

Sweden’s economy is highly dependent on foreign trade. The major industries in Sweden are:

• Iron and steel
• Motor vehicles
• Precision equipment
• Processed foods

Every year Sweden releases a job shortages list. These vacancies are usually for sectors as engineering, teaching, and the IT industry. Those looking for an overseas career in Sweden should refer to the list to see if their profession is in demand.

The country has job openings in the following sectors:

• Construction
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• IT

Work permit

The country offers good working conditions for foreign workers. Overseas workers get work permits which is valid for two years which can be extended for another two years. After four years of working under a work permit, they can apply for permanent residency if they intend to settle in Sweden.

In the two years that the work permit is valid, if the individual gets a job with a new employer in Sweden, he should apply for a new permit. After the validity of the work permit is over, he can change his job and apply for an extension.

Individuals on a work permit can bring their spouse/registered partner and children up to age 21 (as well as children over 21 who are financially dependent on them) to Sweden. They should apply for residence permits, either as part of their  application or as a separate application.

Residence permit

The first thing you should do before you come to work or study here is to apply for a residence permit. This is compulsory if you are planning to stay in the country for more than three months. Residence permits are given on various grounds either for work, study or family ties.

People belonging to European Union nations are exempted from having a residence permit.  Countries that have agreements with Sweden which allow their citizens to come and stay in the country are also exempted from residence permits.

There are two types of resident permits:

Temporary resident permit

 Permanent resident permit

The temporary resident permit is valid for two years which can later be made permanent. The permanent resident permit is valid for a maximum of five years.

If you have a permanent resident permit you can travel in and out of Sweden, but you must have a valid passport. With your residence permit you can be away from Sweden for one year without affecting the validity of your residence permit.

Permanent residency

Citizens of EU will automatically get a permanent residency after five years of continuous stay in Sweden. Non-EU citizens must meet the following requirements to get permanent residency:

• They must have been living continuously in Sweden for five years.
• They should have a valid residency permit for a duration of five years.
• They must have the funds to support themselves and their families.

Permanent residency means you have the right, for the time specified, to live and work freely in Sweden. It also indicates that you are entitled to student loans and grants.

You may be entitled to basic social security through the various social insurance programs while you live and work in Sweden. You are entitled to even more benefits if you are protected by a collective agreement.