Arrival in Karlstad as a new student

Insurance
You will receive an insurance certificate with your name, validity period, and coverage details.

Health Insurance
If you are an International Program Student required to pay tuition fees, you are covered by Kammarkollegiet’s Insurance  FAS+ —provided your tuition fees for the semester are paid in full.
Insurance Terms and Conditions: Kammarkollegiet – FAS+ Terms and conditions.

Healthcare in Sweden
Sweden has an excellent healthcare system. If you are studying for more than one year, you are entitled to public healthcare services. Additionally: 
There are no vaccination requirements for entering Sweden or traveling within the EU.
Most doctors, nurses, and dentists speak English (and sometimes other languages).
Emergency number:  112 (for ambulance, police, or fire services).
Healthcare advice:  1177 (24/7 service where a nurse will assess your condition and direct you to the appropriate care facility)

Family Members
Karlstad University does not provide insurance for family members accompanying you. Ensure they have adequate insurance before leaving their home country.

Financial Matters:

Budgeting & Cost of Living
Studying abroad is an exciting experience, but it’s important to plan your finances before arriving in Karlstad.

Things to consider:
Living costs – The cost of living in Sweden depends on your lifestyle and habits. For reference, check the estimated expenses for Study in Sweden. (Accommodation & budget - Study in Sweden)

Payments in Sweden – Sweden is largely cashless. Most shops, restaurants, and public transport only accept card payments. Ensure you have a VISA/Mastercard with sufficient funds in your home bank account.

Students requiring a residence permit - You must show proof of at least SEK 10,584 per month to cover living expenses (as per Swedish Migration Agency regulations). Read more here (vår sida Residence Permit)

Opening a Swedish Bank Account
Having a Swedish bank account can be useful for paying bills and receiving income. However, depending on your home bank’s currency exchange rates, it may be cheaper to continue using your home account instead of opening a Swedish one.

Short-Term Students (Less than 12 months)
Not eligible for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer).
Limited access to banking services – You cannot open a full Swedish bank account.
Recommended: Use your home bank card for transactions and ATM withdrawals.

Long-Term Students (More than 12 months)
Eligible for a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer).
Can open a full Swedish bank account (after receiving the personal identity number).
Can apply for a Swedish ID card, making transactions easier.

Processing time for a personal identity number: Several weeks—apply early!

Required Documents for Opening a Bank Account
Checklist:
Valid passport (only international-standard passports are accepted).
Residence permit (if applicable).
Proof of admission (confirming your study duration).
Proof of address in Sweden.
Birth certificate (if you have a personal identity number, obtain an extract from the Swedish Tax Agency).

Banking Tips
•    Inform your bank if you change your address, phone number, or email.
•    Close your Swedish bank account before leaving Sweden (this must be done in person at the branch where you opened it).
•    Withdrawal limits apply—plan accordingly when closing your account.

Working in Sweden
EU/EEA Citizens: No work permit is required.
Non-EU/EEA Citizens: You can work only during your residence permit’s validity period.
Important: Do not rely on finding part-time work to support yourself. Part-time jobs are limited, and many employers require:
Swedish language skills, a Swedish personal identity number, full-time availability (which may conflict with studies)
For job opportunities, check Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service).

Wonder how to get to get to Karlstad University? Here you can find out how!