Swedish personal identity number
A personal identifier is essential for everyday life in Sweden, from opening a bank account to accessing healthcare. Depending on the length of your stay, you will need either a Swedish personal identity number (“personnummer”) or a coordination number (“samordningsnummer”).
This section explains what these numbers are, who needs them, and how to apply.
Swedish Personal Identity Number (personnummer)
If you are staying in Sweden for longer than one year, you need to apply for a Swedish personal identity number (“personnummer”) through the Swedish Tax Agency. This number consists of your date of birth followed by four unique digits (YYMMDD-XXXX) and serves as your official identifier in Sweden.
You will use your personal identity number when dealing with government authorities, healthcare, banks, and many private companies. The application can be submitted online or in person at a Tax Agency (Skatteverket) office, but the documents required vary depending on your citizenship. Please note that you will need to visit a Tax Agency office in person for an identity check.
Coordination number (samordningsnummer)
If your stay in Sweden is shorter than one year but you still need a personal identifier, you can apply for a coordination number (samordningsnummer). This is issued by the Swedish Tax Agency and functions in a similar way to the personal identity number.
The application can be made online or in person at a Tax Agency (Skatteverket) office. The required documents vary depending on your citizenship, and you will need to visit a Tax Agency office in person to verify your identity.
How to apply
You can apply either online or by visiting a Tax Agency (Skatteverket) office in person. We recommend using the e-service called “Move to Sweden” to make the process faster. Even if you apply online, you must still book an appointment and go to a Tax Agency office for an identity check. To use the e-service, you need to log in with Freja, an identification app that works with foreign IDs.
Apply for a Swedish personal identity number
Apply for a Swedish coordination number
Required documents
The documents you need to present at the Tax Agency office may depend on your citizenship and whether you are moving alone, with a family member, or to join a family member already in Sweden. Below is an overview of the types of documents that may be required:
- Valid passport
- Notification of Selection result/Admission letter (download from www.universityadmissions.se)
- Residence permit card and decision letter (non-EU/EEA and Swiss students)
- Marriage certificate and/or birth certificate for children (if you are moving with family members)
The exact documents can vary depending on your personal situation. It’s always best to refer to the Swedish Tax Agency’s website.
Swedish Tax Agency’s Moving to Sweden Guide
Obligation to report change of address
If you have a Swedish personal identity number (“personnummer”), you are legally required to report any change of address within Sweden to the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket). This ensures that your details are up to date in the population register. Reporting a new address is free of charge and can easily be done through the Tax Agency’s online e-service.