A Reality Check for New Students
Many people dream of coming to Sweden for study, work, or a better life. It’s easy to fall in love with the idea of peaceful streets, strong education, good healthcare, and high quality of life. But before you make a big decision, I want to share my experience. Not to stop you, but to help you understand the reality. I came to Sweden with hope and ambition. I have a good job, a work permit, and I’ve worked hard to build a life here. But even with all that, things have not been simple. I applied for an extension of my work permit in 2021, and it has been taken over 16 months get final decision.
During this long wait, I couldn’t leave the country. If I travel to visit my family, I might not be able to return. It feels like being stuck in a place where I have no control. It’s stressful and tiring. Sadly, this is not just my story many others are in the same situation. Some have waited even longer. Now, new rules are being planned that will make it harder for people to stay in Sweden after their studies. The government is thinking of increasing the salary requirement for work permits every year. It may become three times more than it is now. This will make things very difficult for international students and new graduates who hope to find jobs and stay in the country.
Finding a job in Sweden is already not easy, especially if you are from outside the EU. Many students struggle to get work in their field. I have seen many smart and hardworking people end up with jobs just to survive, not grow. It’s heartbreaking to see dreams slowly fade under pressure. So, if you’re planning to come to Sweden as a student, please do proper research. Don’t rely only on social media or shiny YouTube videos. Talk to people who live here. Understand the laws, the job market, and how things are changing. Sweden is not a perfect place, and the road to success here is not always smooth. Still, I have deep respect for all the brave students and workers who come here and keep fighting for a better future. It takes courage, and I salute everyone who is doing their best.
My only advice: come prepared with strong plans, realistic expectations, and an open heart. Sweden is a country full of opportunities, but only if you know how to face the challenges that come with it. Wishing all new students and dreamers the very best.