12 Things to Know Before Moving to Sweden as an Indian

2. Language: Bilingual Landscape

Swedish is the official language of Sweden and while most Swedes speak English, learning Swedish can help you interact better with the locals. Swedish grammar and pronunciation can be tricky, but there are many language schools and online resources available to help you learn and ace the language.

3. Economic & Professional Outlook

Sweden is a powerhouse of innovation and is actively investing in the future. The Sweden government is growing towards a massive Green Transition and digitalisation drive. High-demand roles include: 

• AI and Machine Learning Specialists
• Cyber Security Experts and Cloud Engineers
• Automation and Electrical Engineers (especially in renewable energy and battery production)
• UX/UI Designers and Data Analysts  

4. Weather: Cold Climate

If you are planning to moving to Sweden, it is crucial to know about the climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The early onset of darkness and the extreme cold, along with heavy snowfall, can be charming initially, but it can become tedious after two weeks. However, with time, especially by one's third winter, the frigid climate starts to grow on you, and you come to admire it.

Another crucial factor is that since the locals are accustomed to such conditions, the public transportation system operates smoothly, and the roads are adequately maintained. When it comes to winter wear, It's important to dress in layers and invest in warm clothing such as a good winter coat and boots.

5. Efficient Transportation System

Public transportation in Sweden is reliable and efficient, with trains, buses, and trams connecting most major cities and towns. It's also easy to bike or walk in many areas, and many people use cars for longer journeys.

However, owning a car may not be necessary for Stockholm or Gothenburg. It is advisable to investigate the availability and cost of public transportation. For instance, in Stockholm, a single underground ticket is valid for 75 minutes and priced at 44 SEK (£3.54). Additionally, parents accompanied by a stroller can travel on any of Stockholm's buses at no cost.

6. Cost of Living: Penny Pinching in Paradise

Sweden has a high cost of living, with everything from food and transportation to housing and taxes being more expensive than in many other countries. To manage your expenses, it's important to budget carefully and prioritize your spending. The cost of living in Sweden is less when compared to the cost of living in Canada.

7. Work Culture: Collaborative Workplace

Swedish work culture places a strong emphasis on work-life balance, with flexible working hours and ample vacation time. Employers value collaboration and teamwork, and it's important to be punctual and respectful in the workplace. If you’re planning on moving to Sweden, you can also expect to receive an average of 35 days of paid annual leave.

8. Unique Social Customs

Swedes value equality, respect, and punctuality, and it's important to be aware of cultural customs such as removing shoes when entering a home. Swedes tend to be reserved and private, but they are also welcoming and friendly to newcomers.

9. Healthcare: Best Health System

The major advantage of living in Sweden is its universal healthcare system that is highly regarded, with most services being free or low-cost. You'll need to register with a healthcare provider to access these services, and you may need to pay a small fee for appointments and prescriptions.

In terms of healthcare, Sweden's system is considered one of the best in the world, with universal healthcare that is financed by taxes. The high tax rates in Sweden might not seem so bad when considering the excellent healthcare provided.

10. Education: World-Class

Education in Sweden is free for citizens and permanent residents, with many courses being taught in English. The education system places a strong emphasis on independent thinking and creativity, and students are encouraged to participate actively in their learning.

In Sweden, mandatory education is divided into four stages: förskoleklass, which is equivalent to the preschool year or year 0, followed by lågstadiet covering years 1-3, mellanstadiet covering years 4-6, and finally högstadiet covering years 7-9. In addition, children aged between six and thirteen are provided with out-of-school care services before and after regular school hours.

11. Housing: Finding Home Sweet Home

Housing can be difficult to find in major cities like Stockholm, with high demand and limited supply driving up prices. It's important to start your housing search early and consider alternative options like subletting or shared housing to find an affordable place to live.

In the past five years alone, the number of people living in Stockholm has risen by 8%, with an increasing number coming from India.

12. Wonders of Nature

Sweden is renowned for its natural beauty, with forests, lakes, and mountains to explore. Outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing are popular, and many Swedes have a deep connection to nature and the environment.

Sweden's top 4 attractions are as follows:

1. Abisko National Park – The northern lights are one of the most other-worldly gifts that Earth has to offer.
2. Fulufjället National Park – Expect gorgeous wetlands dotted with waterfalls and forests.
3. Söderåsen – This leafy delight is perfect all year round, whether you’re up for an autumnal trail, or just a simple summer picnic.
4. Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve – Take a hiking trip around the winding rivers and towering mountains of Vindelfjällen.

Ready to Move to Sweden? Let GetGIS Help You 

Moving to Sweden offers an exciting opportunity amid its cultural richness, strong economy, and high quality of life, yet demands preparation for language barriers, harsh winters, and elevated living costs. Key factors like mastering basic Swedish, budgeting effectively, and securing employment shape a successful transition.​

GetGIS global immigration experts streamline your Sweden journey, from visa applications and document preparation to job market connections in high-demand sectors. Our proven guidance boosts approval rates and eases relocation challenges for Indian professionals. 

Book a free consultation to speak to our experts today!