How to find an apartment in Sweden as a foreigner

Housing is one of the hardest parts of relocating to Sweden, especially in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Understanding the rental market saves months of frustration.

First-hand vs second-hand (andra hand)

First-hand (första hand) means you rent directly from the property owner, usually through a housing queue (bostadskö). Wait times in major cities can be years.

Second-hand (andra hand) is a sublet from someone who holds the first-hand contract. This is how most newcomers find their first place — but contracts are often shorter and require more caution.

Where to search

• Blocket Bostad — largest classifieds site
• Facebook groups for expats and sublets (verify carefully)
• University housing offices if you are a student
• Employer relocation support, if offered

What landlords expect

• Proof of income (employment contract or payslips)
• Passport and residence permit
• References or credit check (personnummer helps)
• Deposit — typically one month's rent, held per contract terms
• Home insurance (hemförsäkring) before move-in

Avoid scams

• Never pay a deposit before signing a contract and seeing the flat.
• Insist on viewing in person or via live video with verifiable address.
• Verify the landlord's right to sublet with the housing association if possible.
• Be wary of prices far below market rate in central locations.

Registering your address

Your personnummer application requires a registered address. Confirm with your landlord that they will report your move-in to Skatteverket — this is a common blocker for newcomers in informal sublets.