(A Reality Check for Aspiring Students)
Let’s answer this question step by step.
First, let me say this: Few countries in the world offer the quality of life that Sweden does — a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle with minimal stress. After completing just 30 credits as a student, you can apply for a work permit in as little as 4 weeks. Work for four years, and you’re eligible for permanent residency, and after five years, you can apply for Swedish citizenship.
On top of that, Sweden offers:
Visa options for your entire family
Free education for children
Full working rights for your spouse
But here’s the catch — not everyone will benefit equally from these advantages.
Let’s break down who should consider studying in Sweden, and who probably shouldn’t.
1. You Have a Scholarship: If you’ve secured a scholarship, absolutely go for it. With proper focus on your studies, you can comfortably stay in Sweden for at least 3 years (2 years of study + 1 year of job search permit). If you or your spouse manage to get part-time work, you can cover your basic living costs. And if you can build the right skills during this time, there’s a chance you can secure a work permit. It’s tough, but not impossible.
2. You Can Afford Full Tuition: If you can pay the full tuition fees from your home country without relying on working in Sweden, then it’s worth considering. Like scholarship students, you’ll have 2–3 years to study, and your spouse can work to support you both. Again, use this time wisely to prepare for a real job that leads to a work permit.
3. You Plan to Work in Sweden to Pay Tuition: If your plan is to come to Sweden and manage tuition fees by working, either alone or with your spouse — reconsider. Given the current laws and economic situation, this is highly risky. In most cases, you won’t survive financially, and your studies will suffer. It’s better to consider other countries.
Some Realistic Advice:
4. Want to Earn Some Extra Cash?: Go ahead and start working in restaurants, cleaning, hotels, or elderly care. These jobs are great for survival. But remember: they usually don’t lead to work permits because the salary is low and long-term prospects are limited. Use these jobs only as a side hustle, not a long-term career.
5. Invest in Learning the Language: Whether you’re studying or working, learn Swedish. It’s not easy to balance with everything else, but it’s essential. Without Swedish, you’re at a big disadvantage — especially in smaller cities where most jobs require it. Learning the language increases your chances of landing a proper job.
6. Concerned About Delays in Family Visas? Some female students decided not to come to Sweden because they heard their husbands’ visas might be delayed by 3 months.
Honestly, if this waiting period seems unbearable, Sweden may not be for you. You should look into countries that offer joint visas. Please, don’t apply to Sweden again — leave the seat for someone truly committed.
7. Planning to Bring a Small Child? If you get a student visa, your child will also get a visa at the same time. However, finding daycare can take up to 90 days after arrival.
Luckily, most universities only require in-person attendance 2–3 days per week, so attending classes with your child is possible if needed.
8. Sweden Has High-Paying Jobs Yes — salaries in many fields range between 70,000 and 100,000 SEK per month. Of course, not everyone qualifies, but if you’re skilled, it’s achievable. Even during your student period, if you land such a job and work just 50%, you could be eligible for a work permit — and then you won’t need to pay tuition anymore.
9. Don’t Compare with the Past: Forget what others did in the past — rules were different then. Focus on today’s law and the future, and make informed decisions based on that. Your life is your responsibility. A wise decision will make it easier, a wrong one can make it miserable.
10. Sweden is a Land of Unlimited Opportunities — But Not for Everyone
If you’re a good match for Sweden, things will go smoothly.
But if you’re not prepared or not the right fit, Sweden will feel like a nightmare. In that case, the sooner you leave, the better.