It's typically possible to initiate the relocation process concurrently, as my wife and I did. During this process, you may be required to demonstrate that you won't be a financial burden, which could be achieved by showcasing substantial savings or a job offer, along with securing a residence, such as a family summer house or a room within a relative's apartment or house. However, please be aware that the visa application process can be rather time-consuming; in my case, it extended to approximately 12 months coming from the United States.
Reddit: Moving to Sweden from USA
Ben from SanFrancisko says: "I moved to Sweden in April 2021 as an American citizen after marrying a Swede. During our application process, which lasted over a year, my spouse and I were based in the United States. I agree with the comments below, which highlight that as a non-EU citizen without immediate Swedish family ties, moving to Sweden typically requires a direct job offer. It's a common misconception among Americans that they can easily relocate to the EU. When I informed acquaintances about my move to Sweden, I often heard responses like, 'Oh, that's nice, my wife and I plan to move to Italy/France or anywhere in the EU in a couple of years!' The reality is that moving to the EU is not that straightforward. So, if you're genuinely interested in moving to Sweden, your best option is to begin job applications and networking. This is generally the primary pathway for non-EU citizens, unless specific circumstances like seeking refuge apply."
Olga from New York says: "Unless you have a specific reason to move to Sweden, the prospects of relocating here are highly unlikely, if not close to impossible. It's essential to adjust your expectations accordingly. In this individual's case, the only reason for their presence in Sweden is their marriage to a Swedish citizen. Moreover, job hunting in Sweden proved to be far more challenging than anticipated. Despite possessing substantial experience, including over 20 years in IT and 10 years in sales, it took them nearly a year to secure employment, even while being in the country legally with a valid work permit. It's important to acknowledge these difficulties and be realistic about your prospects when considering a move to Sweden."
Moving to Sweden from United States with remote job
The situation at hand primarily revolves around the conditions of your residency in Sweden, and it's crucial to understand the rules governing your ability to work in the country. To determine whether you have the authorization to work in Sweden, you should seek guidance from the Swedish immigration authorities.
For instance, if you were a foreign student in the United States, you'd be subject to certain restrictions. Students on an F-1 visa, for instance, are typically limited to working specific jobs on the university campus, and their work hours are generally capped at 20 hours per week.
In all likelihood, if you are not permitted to work for an employer physically based in Sweden, it's reasonable to assume that you may also face limitations on remote work for a foreign company while residing in Sweden. It's essential to comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth and legal transition to working from Sweden.