Posted by Dionne on November 11, 1997 at 10:37:02:
In Reply to: Re: Jobs/living in Sweden posted by Dionne on November 11, 1997 at 10:17:11:
OK, so copying your message wasn't a good start to
helping you!!!
Its been quite long since you wrote your plea for help, so I don't know if you will want advice now - but here it comes anyway.
I have been living in Sweden and job huntinf for three months now, so I can tell you first of all Jon, you will really need that Swedish!!! You will find that there are jobs that advertise in English, but these tend to be highly specialised jobs for which you will require good experience and lots of qualifications. But, the majority of jobs here want a person with good knowledge in both Swedish and English. And, as most people in Sweden are taught a high standard of English, you are at a disadvantage unless your Swedish is up to scratch.
Also, in your line of work there is a large demand! Lucky you, as there are companies here that deal with English speaking companies around the world, so you should be able to get something.
You will also find that most people in Sweden are very helpful and speak English to you, this can become annoying when you are trying desperately to learn Swedish, but you will survive.
I do know that you can speak for permission to stay in Sweden if you are in a relationship with a national, but it is not as long as permission you will receive if you have a contract for employment. If your contract is permanent you will have to continue to reapply for permission I think in five yearly intervals, if it is only for a limited period you will receive permission for that period. If you apply as part of couple with a national, you will receive sixmonths permission minimum.
Make sure you have a big nest egg to take with you to support you, or it is possible to query with social services, I know that in the UK we can apply to take unemployment benefit with us, but we are in the EU so it may be different for you. Or better still find a job there before you leave, the internet is a good place to search!
And LEARN swedish well and fast! I have quite good Swedish, but I still find it hard to find a job.
I hope this helps you or anyone else considering a similar move. You will really enjoy living in Sweden if you come, but find out as much as you can before you go AND be prepared!
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