Sweden, known for its high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and robust welfare system, is an attractive destination for many considering relocation. If you’re a Nigerian looking to move to Sweden, understanding the various types of visas and the application process is crucial. This guide provides detailed information on the types of relocation visas available in Sweden, how to apply for each one, and why relocating to Sweden from Nigeria can be a rewarding decision. 

Why Relocate to Sweden from Nigeria? 

Quality of Life 

Sweden consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices. The country offers excellent healthcare, education, and welfare systems, ensuring a high standard of living for its residents. 

Economic Opportunities 

Sweden has a strong economy with numerous opportunities for professionals in various fields, especially in technology, engineering, healthcare, and research. 

Social Welfare System

The Swedish social welfare system is one of the most comprehensive in the world, providing benefits like free education, subsidized healthcare, and extensive parental leave. 

Safety and Security 

Sweden is known for its low crime rates and high levels of personal safety, making it an ideal place to raise a family. 

Environmental Quality 

Sweden is a leader in environmental sustainability and offers a clean, green living environment with plenty of outdoor activities. 

Multicultural Society 

Sweden is a multicultural country with a welcoming attitude towards immigrants. The diverse society makes it easier for newcomers to integrate and feel at home. 

Cost of Living 

While the cost of living in Sweden is relatively high compared to Nigeria, the high wages and comprehensive social benefits can offset this. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly costs in Sweden: 

• Rent: SEK 7,000 – 12,000 (which is approximately 320,000 Naira to 600000 Naira) for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. 
• Groceries: SEK 2,500 – 3,500 (which is approximately 115,000 Naira to 160,000 Naira). 
• Public Transport: SEK 860 (which is approximately 40,000 Naira) for a monthly pass. 
• Utilities: SEK 600 – 1,000 (which is approximately 27,000 Naira to 45,000 Naira). 
• Healthcare: Nominal fees for public healthcare services. 

Types of Relocation Visas in Sweden 

Work Visa

Types of Work Visas: 

• Work Permit: For individuals who have received a job offer from a Swedish employer. 
• EU Blue Card: For highly skilled workers with a high level of education and/or professional experience. 
• Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit: For employees transferring within the same company from outside the EU. 
• Self-Employed Visa: For those intending to start or run their own business in Sweden. 

How to Apply: 

Work Permit: 

1. Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a Swedish employer. 
2. Employer’s Application: The employer applies for a work permit on your behalf through the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket). 
3. Submit Documents: Provide required documents such as a valid passport, job offer, proof of accommodation, and insurance. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 2,000). 
5. Wait for Decision: The processing time can take a few months. 
6. Receive Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card. 

EU Blue Card: 

1. Job Offer: Secure a job offer with a salary meeting the threshold (currently SEK 51,900 per month). 
2. Application: Apply through the Swedish Migration Agency. 
3. Submit Documents: Provide proof of qualifications, employment contract, passport, and health insurance. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 2,000). 
5. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary. 
6. Receive Permit: Upon approval, you will receive a residence permit card. 

ICT Permit: 

1. Company Application: The company applies for the ICT permit. 
2. Submit Documents: Provide proof of employment, assignment details, passport, and health insurance. 
3. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 2,000). 
4. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary. 
5. Receive Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card. 

Self-Employed Visa: 

1. Business Plan: Develop a detailed business plan. 
2. Financial Proof: Show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your business. 
3. Application: Apply through the Swedish Migration Agency. 
4. Submit Documents: Provide a passport, business plan, proof of funds, and health insurance. 
5. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 2,000). 
6. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary. 
7. Receive Permit: Upon approval, you will receive a residence permit card. 

Study Visa

How to Apply: 

1. University Admission: Gain admission to a Swedish university. 
2. Application: Apply for a residence permit for studies through the Swedish Migration Agency. 
3. Submit Documents: Provide a passport, university admission letter, proof of funds (approx. SEK 8,514 per month), and health insurance. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 1,500). 
5. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary. 
6. Receive Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card. 

Family Reunification Visa

How to Apply: 

1. Family Member in Sweden: Ensure that a close family member (spouse, registered partner, or child) is a resident in Sweden. 
2. Application: Apply for a residence permit for family reunification through the Swedish Migration Agency. 
3. Submit Documents: Provide proof of relationship, passport, and your family member’s residence permit. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 1,500). 
5. Wait for Decision: Processing times can take several months. 
6. Receive Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card. 

Asylum Visa

How to Apply: 

1. Arrival in Sweden: Arrive in Sweden and immediately inform the authorities that you are seeking asylum. 
2. Application: Apply for asylum at the Swedish Migration Agency. 
3. Interview: Attend an interview where you explain your reasons for seeking asylum. 
4. Submit Documents: Provide identification documents, if available. 
5. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary depending on the complexity of your case. 
6. Receive Permit: If granted asylum, you will receive a residence permit. 

Residence Permit for Researchers

How to Apply: 

1. Research Position: Secure a research position at a Swedish institution. 
2. Application: Apply for a residence permit for researchers through the Swedish Migration Agency. 
3. Submit Documents: Provide a passport, research contract, proof of funds, and health insurance. 
4. Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (approx. SEK 1,500). 
5. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary. 
6. Receive Permit: Once approved, you will receive a residence permit card. 

Relocating to Sweden from Nigeria can be a life-changing decision, offering numerous benefits including a high quality of life, economic opportunities, and a robust social welfare system. Understanding the types of visas available and the application process is crucial to making your move successful. Whether you are moving for work, study, or to join family, Sweden provides a welcoming and supportive environment for immigrants.