Living and working in Sweden
Sweden consistently ranks among 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 supports 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.
Working in Sweden
Working in Sweden means joining a society that values innovation, equality and balance. The workplace is open and collaborative, with flat hierarchies and a strong focus on teamwork.
English is widely spoken in Sweden, and many workplaces, particularly in academia and research, operate fluently in English, making the transition smoother for international professionals.
Sweden places great importance on work–life balance, recognising it as essential for both wellbeing and gender equality. Full-time employees are entitled to at least 25 days of paid holiday each year, in addition to public holidays.
Foreign citizens working in Sweden on highly qualified tasks, or with a salary above a set level, may be eligible for tax relief, 25% of income 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
Everyone who lives or works legally in Sweden is entitled to a national public retirement pension, regardless of nationality. The system is administered by the Swedish Pensions Agency (Pensionsmyndigheten) and is designed to provide long-term financial security after retirement.
Get support and practical tips
The EURAXESS centres provide free, personalised support to researchers relocating to Sweden, as well as to their families. On their website, you will find reliable information about living and working in Sweden, especially useful if you are considering a research career here.
Benefits at Lund University – beyond the Swedish standard
Working at Lund University means enjoying exceptional 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, and flexible leave options for events such as moving house, sitting exams, or attending medical appointments.
The University actively promotes health and wellbeing, offering paid time for exercise (one hour per week) and reimbursement for gym memberships and prescription medication. You may also visit your 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 Öresund region, it is one of the most globally connected university cities in the Nordic countries. From here, you have quick access to major cities across Scandinavia and continental Europe, an ideal setting for international research, regional collaboration and a high quality of life.
- Malmö – 20 minutes by train.
Sweden’s third-largest city, Malmö 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. - Copenhagen and Copenhagen Airport (CPH) – 45 minutes by train.
Denmark’s capital is a global leader in design, sustainability, and culture. With world-class museums, architecture, the Copenhagen Opera House, and thriving creative industries, it’s a key destination for work and leisure. Many Lund University staff commute daily via the Öresund Bridge, open borders make travel smooth and passport-free. The Nordic region’s main international hub offers direct flights to over 160 destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America, making international travel easy and efficient. - Berlin ~ 6.5 hours by train or 1-hour flight.
A major capital for politics, history, and innovation, Berlin is a centre for European decision-making and cultural exchange. - Brussels – 1.5-hour flight.
The de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels is crucial for international relations, research policy, and collaboration within EU programmes. - Hamburg – 5 hours by train or car.
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. - London – 1.5-hour flight.
One of the world’s foremost global cities, London remains a hub for finance, education, media, and science. With daily direct flights from Copenhagen, it’s easily within reach for conferences, partnerships, and career development.
Lund is a very attractive place to live, which means housing demand is high and centrally located apartments at a low rent are extremely rare. At the same time, Lund’s excellent transport connections give you flexibility. This makes commuting simple and gives you access to a wider range of housing options, as well as the cultural life and urban experiences of two larger cities, while still enjoying the charm and convenience of Lund.
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 and Kick-Start Programmes to help newcomers enter the labour market.
Lund University also welcomes highly qualified staff, with all vacancies advertised openly.
Lund combines a rich history with a vibrant cultural and research environment. Discover landmarks like the medieval Lund Cathedral, the Lund University Historical Museum, and Museum of Artistic Process and Public Art.
As a hub for science and innovation, Lund is home to world-class facilities such as MAX IV 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, with music, theatre, galleries and maker spaces. Nearby Malmö and Copenhagen offer even more to explore.
Our researchers share their experiences
Moving to Lund
International researchers share their experiences of moving to Lund
Living in Lund
Why Lund feels like home – voices from international researchers
Working in Lund
Three international scholars on building a career in Lund