# Living and working in Sweden

**Source**: https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about-university/work-us/living-and-working-sweden
**Parent**: https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/applying-studies-when-apply

Sweden consistently ranks as one of the top countries globally in areas such as equality, democracy, transparency and quality of life. These values are deeply embedded in Swedish society and influence both workplaces and public institutions.

Sweden is a parliamentary monarchy with a strong democratic foundation, where civil liberties, political rights and the rule of law are firmly upheld. Freedom of expression and the press are protected by law, including the Freedom of the Press Act.

The welfare system promotes equal opportunities through legally guaranteed parental leave, free education for children aged 6–16 and tuition-free higher education for EU/EEA and Swiss citizens.\

Photo: Plattform/Scandinav/imagebank.sweden.se.

## Working in Sweden

Working in Sweden means becoming part of a society that values innovation, equality and work–life balance. Workplaces tend to be open and collaborative, with flat hierarchies and a strong focus on teamwork.

English is widely spoken in Sweden. Many workplaces, particularly in academia and research, also use English as their working language. This makes the transition smoother for international professionals.

### Strong work–life balance and generous leave

Sweden places great importance on work–life balance, recognising that it is essential for wellbeing and gender equality. Full-time employees are entitled to at least 25 days of paid holiday each year, in addition to public holidays.

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### Tax relief for foreign key personnel

Some foreign citizens working in Sweden on highly qualified tasks, or with a salary above a certain level, may qualify for tax relief. This relief allows 25% of your income to be exempt from taxation for up to seven years. Approval is required from the Taxation of Research Workers Board.

[The Taxation of Research Workers Board – forskarskattenamnden.se](https://forskarskattenamnden.se/andra-sprak/taxation-of-research-workers-board)

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### National public pension for all residents

Everyone who lives or works legally in Sweden is entitled to the national public retirement pension, regardless of nationality. The pension system is managed by the Swedish Pensions Agency (Pensionsmyndigheten) and is intended to provide long‑term financial security after retirement.

[National public pension – pensionsmyndigheten.se](https://www.pensionsmyndigheten.se/other-languages/english-engelska/english-engelska/national-public-pension)

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## Get support and practical tips

The EURAXESS centres offer free and personalised support to researchers relocating to Sweden, as well as to their families. On the EURAXESS website, you can find reliable information about living and working in Sweden. This is especially useful if you are considering a research career here.

[EURAXESS website](https://www.euraxess.se/)

## Benefits beyond the Swedish standard

Working at Lund University means enjoying benefits that go well beyond the Swedish norm. Employees receive:

- generous annual leave (up to 35 days, depending on age)
- paid parental leave with additional university compensation
- flexible leave options for events such as moving house, sitting exams or attending medical appointments.

The University actively promotes health and wellbeing. Employees are offered one hour of paid exercise time per week and an annual wellness allowance that can be used for many types of health and wellness activities. They also receive reimbursement for prescription medication and may visit their doctor during working hours.

Lund University is more than just a workplace. It offers rich cultural and recreational opportunities, making it easier to balance a fulfilling career with a high quality of life.

## Living and working in Lund

Located at the heart of the Greater Copenhagen region, Lund is one of the most globally connected university cities in northern Europe. From here, you have quick access to major cities across Scandinavia and continental Europe, making it an ideal base for international research and a high quality of life.

### Regional and European proximity

Click on the image to enlarge (new tab).

#### Malmö

**20 minutes by train**\
Malmö, Sweden's third-largest city, is a vibrant hub for culture, business and innovation. With its young population, diverse communities and coastal location, Malmö complements Lund's academic atmosphere with urban energy and creativity.

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#### Copenhagen and Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

**45 minutes by train**\
Denmark's capital Copenhagen is a global leader in design, sustainability and culture. With world-class museums, architecture, the Copenhagen Opera House and thriving creative industries, it is a key destination for work and leisure.

Many Lund University staff commute daily via the Öresund Bridge. Open borders mean there are no routine ID checks, making travel smooth and efficient. Copenhagen Airport, the region's main international hub, offers direct flights to over 160 destinations in Europe, Asia and North America. This makes international travel easy and efficient.

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#### Berlin

**Around 6.5 hours by train or 1-hour flight**\
As a major centre for politics, history and innovation, Berlin plays a key role in European decision-making and cultural exchange.

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#### Hamburg

**5 hours by train or car**\
As Germany's second-largest city and a major port, Hamburg is a key European centre for trade, logistics, and culture. Its museums, music venues, and maritime character make it a valuable link for both business and research.

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#### Brussels

**1.5-hour flight**\
As the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels plays a crucial role in international relations, research policy and collaboration within EU programmes.

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#### London

**1.5-hour flight**\
London is one of the world's foremost global cities and remains a hub for finance, education, media and science. With daily direct flights from Copenhagen, the city is easily accessible for conferences, partnerships and career development.

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### Live in the region, work in Lund

Lund is a very attractive place to live, which means housing demand is high and centrally located, low‑rent apartments are extremely rare. At the same time, Lund's excellent transport connections give you flexibility. Commuting is simple, and you can choose from a wider range of housing options across the region. This also gives you access to the cultural life and urban experiences of two larger cities, while still enjoying Lund's charm and convenience.

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### Career support for spouses and partners

Moving to Sweden often involves the whole family, and support is available for spouses and partners seeking employment. The International Citizen Hub in Lund offers guidance, networking opportunities and Kick-Start Programmes to help newcomers enter the labour market.

Lund University also welcomes highly qualified staff and advertises all vacancies openly.

[International Citizen Hub Lund website](https://internationalcitizenhub.com/)

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### Culture, science and creativity

Lund combines a rich history with a vibrant cultural and research environment. Discover landmarks such as the medieval Lund Cathedral, the Lund University Historical Museum and the Museum of Artistic Process and Public Art (Skissernas).

As a hub for science and innovation, Lund is home to world‑class facilities such as the MAX IV Laboratory and the European Spallation Source. Public lectures and exhibitions at Lund University make research accessible to all.

The city's creative scene is shaped by students and international residents and includes music, theatre, galleries and maker spaces. The nearby cities of Malmö and Copenhagen offer even more to explore.

[Cultural and public centres](https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about-university/visit-lund-university/cultural-and-public-centres)

[Welcome to Lund – visitlund.se](https://visitlund.se/en)

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## Our researchers share their experiences

Watch the videos below to find out what it's like for international researchers to live and work in Lund.

## Moving to Lund

### Living in Lund

### Working in Lund