Arrival in Karlstad as a new student

Health Insurance

If you are an International programme student required to pay tuition fees, you are covered by Kammarkollegiet’s insurance  FAS+ —provided your tuition fees for the semester are paid in full. Insurance Terms and Conditions: Kammarkollegiet – FAS+ Terms and conditions. 

• Karlstad University does not provide insurance for family members accompanying you. Ensure they have adequate insurance before leaving their home country.

Healthcare in Sweden

Sweden has an excellent healthcare system and as a student staying for more than one year, you are entitled to access public healthcare services. There are no vaccination requirements for entering Sweden or traveling within the EU. Most doctors, nurses and dentists speak English.

• Emergency number:  112 (for ambulance, police, or fire services).
• Healthcare advice:  1177 (24/7 service where a nurse will assess your condition and direct you to the appropriate care facility)

Living costs 

The cost of living in Sweden depends on your lifestyle and habits. For reference, check the estimated expenses for Study in Sweden. (Accommodation & budget - Study in Sweden)

Payments in Sweden

Sweden is largely cashless. Most shops, restaurants, and public transport only accept card payments. Ensure you have a VISA/Mastercard with sufficient funds in your home bank account.

Students requiring a residence permit 

You must show proof of at least SEK 10,584 per month to cover living expenses (as per Swedish Migration Agency regulations). Read more here 

Opening a Swedish Bank Account

Having a Swedish bank account can be useful for paying bills and receiving income. However, depending on your home bank’s currency exchange rates, it may be cheaper to continue using your home account instead of opening a Swedish one.

Short-Term Students (Less than 12 months)

• Not eligible for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer)
• Limited access to banking services – You cannot open a full Swedish bank account
• Recommended: Use your home bank card for transactions and ATM withdrawals

Long-Term Students (More than 12 months)

• Eligible for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer)
• Can open a full Swedish bank account (after receiving the personal identity number)
• Can apply for a Swedish ID card, making transactions easier
• Processing time for a personal identity number: Several weeks—apply early!

Required Documents for Opening a Bank Account

Before and after your studies in Sweden, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Use the checklist below to make sure you have all the essential documents in order, and don’t forget the key steps for managing your bank account while you're here—and before you leave.

Checklist:

• Valid passport (only international-standard passports are accepted).
• Residence permit (if applicable).
• Proof of admission (confirming your study duration).
• Proof of address in Sweden.
• Birth certificate (if you have a personal identity number, obtain an extract from the Swedish Tax Agency).

Banking tips:

• Inform your bank if you change your address, phone number, or email.
• Close your Swedish bank account before leaving Sweden (this must be done in person at the branch where you opened it).
• Withdrawal limits apply—plan accordingly when closing your account.

Working in Sweden

Your ability to work during your studies depends on your citizenship and residence status. Here's what you need to know:

EU/EEA Citizens 

No work permit is required.

Non-EU/EEA Citizens 

You can work only during your residence permit’s validity period. Do not rely on finding part-time work to support yourself. Part-time jobs are limited, and many employers require Swedish language skills, a Swedish personal identity number, full-time availability (which may conflict with studies). For job opportunities, check Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service).