Checklist before and upon arrival

Is your passport valid? Make sure to extend your passport if it is about to expire – you cannot obtain a work/residence permit for longer than your passport's period of validity. This also applies to your family, if they accompany you.

Do you need a visa, a residence permit or work permit? Note that researchers from a non-EU country should apply for a residence permit for researchers (not a work permit). You will need to attach a hosting agreement signed by the host at the University. Read more at the Swedish Migration Agency. 

Check your insurance. Do you need to arrange a medical insurance? Do you have insurance that covers your personal property?

Your spouse/cohabitant and your children can accompany you to Sweden for the duration of your stay. They may also need to get a visa or a residence permit, depending on their citizenship and length of stay. More information at Swedish Migration Agency.

• During your stay in Sweden, you will need certain documents or information for administrative procedures. Make sure you arrive in Sweden with all the documents that you are likely to require. It will be easier to get hold of documents while you are still in your country than retrospectively to seek them once you are in Sweden. We recommend that you bring the following documents with you:

  • The original certificate of your highest qualification 

  • A proof of funding (work contract/ offer of employment letter – original documents and copies) 

  • Your birth certificate (original document and copies) for you and each accompanying family member. 

  • Your marriage certificate if your spouse accompanies you (original document and copies). 

  • Your children's school reports (if applicable) 

  • Vaccination certificates and medical records for you and your accompanying family 

  • A copy of your most recent tax return (if available) 

  • If you wish to drive in Sweden: your valid driving licence as well as international insurance certificate and vehicle registration document for your car.

Finding a place to stay will be one of the first issues to look into when you have decided to move to Sweden. Give yourself plenty of time to make all necessary arrangements before leaving your home country. Always check first with the university or company where you will do your research as some of them provide accommodation to their international researchers.

Read more about Accommodation

Plan your move. This website contains useful information and a 10-step guide from the official site of Sweden.

You will also fins useful information at workinginsweden.se/work