Reader questions
We do our best to answer our members’ questions. If you have queries about anything to do with Sweden please email us at news@thelocal.se.
How long will you have to live in Sweden to be eligible for citizenship after June 6th?
Sweden is rolling out tougher citizenship laws, including increasing the time you have to live in Sweden before you're eligible for citizenship. But the exact time depends on your residency permit. Here's a rundown of what it means for everyone, from work permit holders to children.
EXPLAINED: What do you need to do to retire to Sweden?
Although Sweden may be a less popular retirement destination than other European countries like Spain or Portugal, there are many pensioners who plan on retiring in the Nordic country. What are the rules for foreigners?
Can I get a Swedish mortgage without permanent residency?
The Swedish rental market is notoriously difficult for immigrants to break into, so many consider buying a property instead. But can you get a Swedish mortgage without a permanent residence permit?
Your questions answered on Sweden's proposed permanent residency changes
The Local Sweden's editorial team held a live Q&A with members about Sweden's proposed changes to permanent residency status. We've pulled out some of the key questions and our team's responses.
Members Q&A on what's happening to Swedish permanent residency
Sweden is changing some of its permanent residency rules and putting other changes on hold. The Local's journalists have responded to your comments and questions about what's actually going on.
GUIDE: Travelling through Copenhagen airport with kids
Flying with children can be stressful at the best of times, so here are The Local’s best tips for departing from Copenhagen airport with your kids in tow.
How to grow your own fruits and vegetables in Sweden
Whether you were a keen gardener or not before you moved to Sweden, growing in the Nordic climate might not be quite what you're used to. The Local spoke to master gardener John Taylor for his tips on growing veg in Sweden.
When are you eligible for a Swedish pension?
Sweden's system for determining pension age changes this year. What are the rules and how can you get your pension when the time comes?
Who can study for free in Sweden?
Applications for Sweden's university autumn semester open on March 16th, and did you know that tuition-free degrees and shorter courses are available to a lot of foreign residents in the country, too?
Will you need to leave Sweden if your citizenship application is denied?
Are you worried about your Swedish citizenship application being denied, despite you meeting all the requirements at the time of application? Here are your next steps, as well as how to appeal if you think the Migration Agency has made a mistake.
How to influence political decisions on Sweden's new citizenship rules
A number of The Local's readers have reached out since more details of the planned changes to Swedish citizenship rules were unveiled in February asking how they can share their opinions with decision-makers. Here are a few ways to do so.
How to get your money back if you've been paying too much rent in Sweden
The cost of sublets in Sweden has soared over the past decade, so what should you do if you think you've been overcharged?
How to lower the monthly cost of your Swedish mortgage
The mortgage makes up the biggest chunk of a lot of home owners' monthly bills. But did you know there’s a way you can lower your mortgage cost?
What are my rights while I wait for my Swedish residence permit to be extended?
Many foreigners living in Sweden need to have a residence permit to live in the country legally. Permits are generally issued for two years at a time and can be renewed 30 days before expiry, at the earliest. But just what are your rights while you wait to hear back?
How does Sweden's 'track change' repeal affect work permit holders?
Sweden is revoking the so-called track changes ('spårbyte') immigration path, which means that thousands of foreign workers may have to leave the country. The Local has looked into the nitty-gritty of who is affected and what their chances of staying are.
A guide to how to dress for the cold weather like a Swede
Dress warm for the cold season... but how can we do it like the Swedes do? Fear not, here's our handy guide.
When can I start counting my residency in Sweden towards citizenship?
Applicants for Swedish citizenship need to have been living in Sweden for a certain amount of time in order to qualify. At what point does your time spent in Sweden start to count towards citizenship?
When do you start saying Merry Christmas in Sweden?
There are a surprising number of unwritten rules when it comes to greeting people throughout the Christmas season. So when should you say god jul, and when is it better to wish someone a 'good continuation' or a 'good end' instead?
What do you legally need to carry in your car in Sweden?
Whether you’re driving in Sweden as a resident or a tourist, it’s worth knowing what you legally need to have with you when you’re out on the roads.
Do foreigners in Sweden have to carry their residence cards?
Foreign residents in Sweden who are granted residence permits are issued with a residence card or 'uppehållstillstånd'. Who does this apply to and are they obliged to carry the card all the time?
Why is it so hard to find fresh fish at supermarkets in Sweden?
Despite Sweden boasting a quarter of a million islands, fresh fish can be surprisingly hard to get hold of. When one of The Local's readers asked why, we tried to find the answer.
Can I take my child out of their Swedish school during term time?
Are you planning a trip abroad later in the year with school-age kids? It's good to be aware of the rules for taking them out of classes so you're not hit with a painful fine once you get home.
Do children born in Sweden automatically get Swedish citizenship?
A Swedish passport comes with many benefits, and the country allows dual citizenship. But what are the rules for the children of foreign nationals born in Sweden?