
Scott Monaco
American expat in Sweden
About me
American
Speaks English, Chinese (Mandarin), Swedish, Spanish.
Registration: 21 October 2025
Articles written or translated by Scott Monaco

Sweden does not issue work visas; instead, anyone who plans to work in Sweden for more than a short temporary stay must apply for a residence permit for work. This permit grants both the right to live in Sweden and the right to work for a specific employer or within a defined occupation. This article explains how work-related residence permits function in Sweden, who needs one, and how the application process works. It is intended for expats and prospective workers who are planning to relocate to Sweden and need a clear, practical overview of the rules, requirements, and various steps.
27 March 2026
For families moving to Sweden with children, childcare is often one of the main considerations. Sweden's high taxation becomes easier to understand when you look at how childcare is funded. The country offers some of the most comprehensive family support systems in the world, including long paid parental leave that is shared between both parents, a monthly child allowance, free healthcare for children, and free or heavily subsidised public transport for young people.
27 March 2026
Mobile and internet access are essential for daily life in Sweden. This article explains the available options and how to get connected.
27 March 2026
This article provides a list of useful contacts that may be helpful once you have settled in Sweden.
27 March 2026
Sweden has traditionally emphasised simplicity and practicality in its food culture, but the dining scene has expanded in recent years. Dining out is now a common part of urban life, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, cafes, and fika spots vying for your attention.
27 March 2026
When moving abroad, leisure quickly becomes an important part of daily life. Below are some of the leisure activities you can enjoy in Sweden. Swedes take work/life balance seriously, and leisure is treated as a normal part of everyday life. Time spent with family, outdoors, or pursuing personal interests is widely valued and supported by easy access to nature and a strong cultural environment.
27 March 2026
If you are moving to Sweden with a pet, bringing animals from another EU country is straightforward, provided the requirements are met. This article outlines what you need to know before traveling with your pet.
27 March 2026
Relocation is a key part of moving to Sweden, and planning it well can make settling in much easier. The guidelines below outline the main practical steps and considerations to help you prepare for life in Sweden and avoid common pitfalls during the transition.
27 March 2026
Housing conditions in Sweden vary widely by location. In major cities, long waiting times and limited availability can make renting difficult, so it may sometimes prove easier to find a property to buy than to find a rental. Outside the cities, housing is generally easier to find, and property prices are significantly lower. As a result, some newcomers choose to buy rather than rent. This section outlines what to consider if you are exploring that option.
27 March 2026
Finding accommodation in Sweden can take a lot of time, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with the housing system. Availability, pricing, and competition vary widely depending on location, housing type, and lease type. This guide outlines how the Swedish housing market works, what to expect when searching for a home, and the key rules around renting.
27 March 2026
Planning to study in Sweden involves more than choosing just a university or field of study. International students must also consider visa requirements, tuition fees, health insurance, and how the Swedish system is structured. This article outlines the key information and considerations to help you prepare for studying in Sweden.
27 March 2026
Wondering what healthcare access for expats looks like in Sweden? This article explains how the system works, who is covered, and what you can expect.
27 March 2026
Wondering how taxes work in Sweden? This article explains the essentials of the Swedish tax system and what you need to know as a resident or newcomer.
27 March 2026
Opening a bank account is a necessity for those who relocate to Sweden. This article explains who can open one, what documents are required and what to expect from the process.
27 March 2026
Sweden is known for its efficient systems and a high quality of life. It consistently ranks highly in global happiness and livability indexes, and its infrastructure and digital connectivity make it a practical option for remote work. This article explains what digital nomads should know before choosing Sweden as a temporary place to live and work.
03 March 2026
Sweden is very welcoming towards students and trainees. Moving here offers the chance to gain experience working in an egalitarian work culture, work in an international hub of professionals, and work with advanced technology and modern tools. Non-EU and non-Nordic citizens must obtain a permit to intern in Sweden.
03 March 2026
Every year, Sweden attracts many people looking to start a business or work independently. The process is straightforward for EU/EEA and Nordic nationals, while third-country nationals face additional requirements and approvals before they can operate a business in Sweden.
03 March 2026
Sweden is a popular destination for expats, famous for great working conditions, a strong emphasis on gender equality, and a healthy work-life balance. If you are planning to live and work in Sweden, it helps to understand how the labor market works in practice, which sectors are hiring, and what rules apply based on your nationality. EU/EEA nationals generally find it easier to enter the job market, but there are also clear processes and resources in place to help third-country nationals navigate working in Sweden.
03 March 2026
Whether you can drive in Sweden depends on where your driver's license was issued and how long you plan to stay. This article explains when your existing license is valid and when you may need to replace it with a Swedish one.
03 March 2026
If you are planning to move to Sweden, you may be wondering whether you need a visa or a resident permit. The article explains the requirements and how they apply to different nationalities.
03 March 2026
Sweden's Working Holiday programme allows young people from certain countries to live in Sweden for up to one year while working alongside their travels to support their stay. This article explains who can apply, what the permit allows, and what to consider before moving.
03 March 2026
Staying in Sweden for more than 90 days can be simple or more complex, depending on your nationality and circumstances. In general, for EU/EAA and Nordic citizens, long-term residence is generally simpler, but you must be able to prove that you are working, studying, and financially self-sufficient. Third-country nationals need to apply for a residence permit in advance. The process involves application fees and, in many cases, long processing times.
03 March 2026
If you are planning to move to Sweden, it is important to understand whether you need a visa to enter the country and what allows you to stay beyond 90 days. The rules depend on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. While EU/EEA, Nordic, and Swiss citizens benefit from freedom of movement, most other nationals must apply for a visa to enter Sweden and a residence permit to stay long-term. In all cases, it is worth planning well ahead. Even when no visa is required, administrative steps such as registration, identity numbers, and access to services often take time after arrival.
03 March 2026