Getting started
What to do on your first day
From the airport to your bed: a working phone, the right transport ticket, your address checked, and your documents safe.
At a glance
- Most urgent
- Phone, transport ticket, getting home
- Before bed
- Name on the mailbox, documents in a safe place
- Emergency
- 112 · Healthcare advice 1177
From the airport to your city
Airports are connected by train, airport coaches and regional buses. Download your region’s transport app before you land if you can, and buy the ticket there — buses rarely take cash. Trains from Arlanda charge an extra airport passage fee on top of a normal ticket. Taxis are available but expensive; read the price sticker before you get in.
Choose your city to see its transport operator and ticket prices.
Buying and registering a SIM card
A prepaid SIM card (kontantkort) is sold at supermarkets, kiosks and phone shops. Since 2022 every prepaid card must be registered before you can top it up. Without BankID, you register in a shop that offers it, showing valid ID such as your passport. You need the card’s phone number and its 20-digit ICC code (printed on the SIM card). A monthly contract (abonnemang) usually needs a personnummer and a credit check, so most newcomers start with prepaid.
Your accommodation and address
- On the door, mailbox or rental contract. Skatteverket needs it.
- Letters from authorities are addressed to you — without your name they may be returned.
Groceries and paying
Supermarkets are open every day, often late. Sweden is largely cashless: use your bank card from home (check its foreign fees) or a mobile wallet. Some places do not take cash at all. See grocery shopping.
Documents and emergencies
Depending on why you came
Students
Check your university’s arrival instructions — some have welcome desks at the airport or station in August and January. See arriving as a student.
Workers
Message your employer that you have arrived and confirm your first day. See arriving to work.
Family members
Keep everyone’s passports, permit cards and family certificates together — you will need them all at the identity check. See arriving as a family member.
Official sources
Rules and fees change. Always confirm on the official page before you apply or pay. Last checked 14 Oct 2026.