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 to respond to the consultation on a proposed new Swedish law
Sweden has an impressively thorough system for developing legislation, and this includes a 'remiss' consultation stage where anyone at all, even you, has the right to send in a submission outlining their views and proposing changes. Here's how to make a submission.
Ten key questions to help you plan your Swedish pension now
Pension-planning is an important part of keeping on top of your personal finances, and that's true whether you've moved to Sweden for the long haul, plan to stay for just a few years, or are choosing to retire to the Scandinavian country.
What happens to your Swedish work permit if you lose your job?
Losing your job is never ideal, but for those in Sweden on a work permit there's another layer of worry. Can you stay in Sweden to look for work? Can you change career? Here's what happens.
IN BRIEF: What we know about Sweden's citizenship tests so far
Sweden originally proposed language tests for citizenship over six years and two governments ago. Here’s a refresher on what those tests might look like.
What happens if your Swedish citizenship application is rejected?
Has your Swedish citizenship application been denied, despite you meeting all the requirements? Here are your next steps, as well as how to appeal if you think the Migration Agency has made a mistake.
What counts as salary under Sweden's work permit threshold?
People applying for work permits in Sweden must earn at least 28,480 kronor for their application to be accepted. But what exactly counts as salary, according to the Migration Agency?
How to influence political decisions on Sweden's new citizenship rules
A number of The Local's readers have reached out since the planned changes to Swedish citizenship rules were unveiled in mid-January asking how they can share their opinions with decision-makers. Here are a few ways to do so.
UPDATED: Readers' questions answered on Sweden's citizenship reforms
Will there still be Swedish language tests? What about the rules for children? Are there exceptions to the residence requirement for EU citizens? The Local's readers have had a lot of questions about the government's proposed changes to citizenship. Here are the answers.
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?
Your questions answered on UK's new entry fee for non-EU and EU travellers
Many non-EU tourists visiting the UK are now required to pay a £10 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in order to enter. EU nationals will also soon have to pay for an ETA. The Local answers your questions on the rules and exemptions.
Q&A: What Sweden's contentious citizenship slowdown means for foreigners
We asked The Local's readers for any questions they had about the government's plans for a citizenship slowdown. Here are our best answers based on what we know so far.
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?
When will the days start getting longer in Sweden again?
Temperatures have dropped, the clocks have gone back, and the nights are long and dark. Here’s when you can start looking forward to longer days in Sweden again.
What you need to know about winter tyres in Sweden
Have you changed to winter tyres yet? If not, you may be breaking Swedish law.
How likely is it that Sweden would put a moratorium on new citizenships?
Sweden's deputy prime minister argued the Migration Agency should slow down the processing of citizenships until new and tougher rules come into force, and the Sweden Democrats upped the ante to a total moratorium. But what does this mean for foreigners?
Wrap up warm: How to dress for the cold weather in Sweden
Dress warm for the cold season... but how can we do it like the Swedes do? Fear not, here's our handy guide.
What do foreigners in Sweden need to do when preparing for a war or crisis?
This week, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) started sending out five million copies of a new version of the famous booklet "If Crisis or War Comes". What should foreigners in particular bear in mind when preparing for a crisis?
'Funds are excellent': What's the best way to save for your children in Sweden?
Whether you've already started saving for your child or are considering doing so, deciding which type of account to use in Sweden and even which name to list it under can save you and your child a lot of money in the long term.
Can my Swedish boss force me to work over Christmas?
Sweden's labour laws are famously generous when it comes to holidays, but does that mean it's always OK to clock off over Christmas and New Year's?
Can you get Swedish citizenship through ancestry?
For Irish citizenship, it's enough to have a grandparent, for Greek, a great-grandparent, and for an Italian one all you need to do is prove descent from someone born since the country's foundation in 1861. So what's the situation in Sweden?
EXPLAINED: What happens when a foreigner gets arrested in Sweden?
It’s a situation nobody ever wants to be in, but what happens if you’re arrested in Sweden? What should you do, and what are your rights?
EXPLAINED: What's the best way to bring an ageing parent to Sweden?
Many people living and working in Sweden have one or more parents living back in their home country, often alone. What are the options if they need support or stop being able to care for themselves?
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.