There is no specific retirement visa for Sweden, as people interested in retiring to this country must follow the usual immigration pathways. The first step is to check the relocation procedure based on the state of origin.
Below, our immigration lawyers in Sweden explain how to obtain a visa for retirees based on different scenarios. They are also at the service of applicants with specialized relocation services.
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Retirement to Sweden as a citizen of an EU country
The simplest scenario that implies moving directly, therefore not even needing a retirement visa for Sweden, is when the retiree is a citizen of an EU country. In this case, all one needs to do is move here and register with the local authorities. Of course, there are a few aspects to consider before relocating to Sweden, such as:
- signing a lease contract for the house or apartment in which one intends to live;
- ensure one has sufficient money to sustain his or her stay here;
- procure valid health insurance.
It is also possible to immigrate to Sweden as a couple by considering the same process.
How to retire to Sweden from a non-EU country
In the case of non-EU citizens moving to Sweden, there are two scenarios that apply:
- in the first one, the applicants come from an EU country, a case in which they only need their EU residence permit or Schengen visa;
- in the second one, the applicants enter the EU for the first time, and they need to apply for an entry visa and a temporary residence permit for Sweden.
As such, the temporary residence card will serve as a Swedish retirement visa. They also need to make the same living arrangements as in the previous case.
Our immigration law firm in Sweden can help you apply for a residence permit if you want to retire here as a non-EU citizen.
Documents required when retiring to Sweden
Since there is no retirement visa for Sweden, the documents one needs to gather are for applying for a temporary residence permit. They entail:
- a valid passport;
- proof of accommodation;
- valid health insurance;
- proof of self-sustenance for the duration of stay.
Temporary residence permits are usually valid for periods of up to 2 years, so you may want to consider this time frame in terms of finances. According to the Swedish Migration Office, sufficient funds mean having a sum of money that can ensure you live for at least one year without filing for state benefits. From this point of view, please note that if the Migration Office decides you are eligible for temporary residency, you will be listed in the Population Register and declared a resident of this country.
Our Swedish immigration lawyers are at your disposal with information about how to calculate your budget if you want to retire here.
Alternatives to a retirement visa for Sweden
Considering there is no special visa to allow foreign citizens to retire to Sweden, those looking for another option could be interested in the Golden Visa or residency by investment scheme. Under this program, one must prepare:
- at least SEK 200,000 (approx. EUR 17,500) for the main applicant;
- an additional SEK 100,000 for the spouse;
- SEK 50,000, if the couple moves with their children.
If you are considering this option, you can rely on our local law firm. This is also a good alternative if you are interested in citizenship in Sweden.
How many senior citizens live in Sweden?
If you want to move to Sweden and want to know about the opportunities to connect with other people close to your age, you should know that approximately 2,6 million people are over 60 years old, according to the Statistics Office.
If you are interested in an alternative to the retirement visa for Sweden, contact us. Our lawyers will help you make the right choice.
