Thursday, September 11 | 2025
Disclaimer: this guide was last updated in January 2024. Some information might be obsolete, as the legislation and regulations for asylum seekers have become more strict in Sweden. Make sure to check for the most recent updates at the Migration Agency website.
Refugees in Sweden, or asylum seeker as it is actually called, seeking asylum in Sweden? Then you’ve come to the right place. Here you find information about your rights and obligations. But – note that regulations change so you should always turn to the Swedish Migration Agency for the latest information if you are a refugee in Sweden or wanting to come to Sweden.
Once you arrive in Sweden you should apply for asylum a the Swedish Migration Agency. You can do this at the border or at any of the Migration Agency units in Gävle, Göteborg, Malmö, Märsta, Norrköping and Stockholm.
Keeping yourself occupied while waiting for a decision from the Swedish Migration Agency is not just a way to contribute to the Swedish society, it’s also good for your well being. Working, doing an internship or engaging in volunteer activities will increase your knowledge of Sweden and give you opportunities to practice your Swedish.
Housing for refugees in Sweden seeking asylum are a little limited unfortunately. You basically have two options when it comes to housing. You can either stay at a reception unit or arrange your own accomodation. Here is a breakdown of both these possibilities.
Can refugees in Sweden (asylum seekers) in Sweden get medical help? Well, to a degree. Your right to medical and dental care in Sweden as an asylum seeker depends on your age. Asylum seeking children (under the age of 18) have more or less the same rights to medical and dental care as any other child living in Sweden.
The Swedish language is in many aspects your key to your life in Sweden. We recommend that you start learning Swedish as soon as possible. Swedish for refugees is limited but you have three alternatives to learn Swedish while waiting for a decision from the Swedish Migration Board.
Connect with locals! Being new in a country can be quite lonely so it is important that you try to meet people who can help you make sense of your new country. Here we’ve gathered initiatives and organisations that brings newcomers and Swedes together.
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