Everyone in Sweden possesses fundamental legal rights, including protection under the law and access to emergency services.
However, your specific access to primary healthcare, social benefits, and employment pathways depends heavily on your residency and immigration status.
Understanding your rights is the foundation of feeling secure and empowered in a new country. Whether you need to navigate the healthcare system, interact with authorities, or secure education for your children, Sweden’s legal framework provides protections regardless of your background.
We have broken down these rights by your legal status to help you understand what you are entitled to and how to access it.
residents
If you are registered in Sweden with a personnummer, you are considered a resident and have broad access to public services.
This includes:
- access to public healthcare at standard patient fees
- access to schooling and education
- access to work and housing systems (depending on your situation)
- the right to receive legal representation in court cases when eligible
- the right to appeal decisions made by public authorities
Healthcare is still subsidised, not fully free, and you usually pay a set fee per visit until you reach the yearly cost cap.
EU/EEA visitors
If you are visiting Sweden from an EU/EEA country, you can access care using a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
This typically includes:
- medically necessary healthcare during your stay
- treatment at the same patient fees as residents
Important limits:
- EHIC does not cover planned treatment or long-term care
- access to work and study depends on your stay length and registration status
You are still protected under Swedish law and have access to emergency services if needed.
asylum seekers and people with temporary protection (TPD)
Asylum seekers and people with temporary protection (TPD) have access to essential public services while their case is being processed.
This includes:
- subsidised healthcare and emergency care
- interpreter support in healthcare and authorities
- access to schooling for children
- basic housing support through the Migration Agency system
- in some cases, access to legal assistance depending on the situation
Children under 18 generally have broader healthcare access, often at very low or no cost.
undocumented migrants
Undocumented migrants in Sweden still have access to certain essential rights, especially in urgent situations.
This includes:
- emergency healthcare
- maternity care and abortion services
- healthcare for children under 18 (often at the same level as residents)
Access to other services may be limited and can vary depending on region and individual circumstances. Emergency care is always provided when needed.
real-world example
If you are under temporary protection and receive a fine or incorrect charge at a clinic, you can:
- request an interpreter to understand the decision
- contact 1177 Vårdguiden for guidance
- ask the clinic to review or correct billing
- seek legal advice if needed
Sweden’s system allows you to challenge decisions and correct administrative errors through formal channels, even while your status is being processed.
- Always carry ID
- Know the emergency numbers (112 / 114 14)
- Documentation matters
- Healthcare, emergency services, education and legal support are rights for everyone
- Rights vary by legal status
- Always carry ID and legal documents
- Use interpreters when needed
The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax, employment, or professional advice. While we aim to keep content accurate and up to date, information may change over time. Please consult official sources or qualified professionals before making decisions based on this information.
↗ Migrationsverket
↗ Legal aid
↗ European e-Justice Portal
↗ 1177 Vårdguiden
do i have rights even if I’m not a resident of sweden?
Yes. Everyone in Sweden has basic legal rights, including access to emergency healthcare, police protection and the legal system.
can i contact the police even if I’m undocumented?
Yes. You can report crimes, ask for help and receive protection regardless of immigration status.
what healthcare can EU/EEA visitors get?
With a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can access medically necessary healthcare during your stay.
do asylum seekers and people under temporary protection have healthcare rights?
Yes. They have access to subsidised healthcare, school for children, housing support and interpreter services.
can i get an interpreter when dealing with healthcare or authorities?
Yes. You have the right to request an interpreter. For healthcare, you can contact 1177 Vårdguiden for guidance and support.
what rights do undocumented migrants have?
They have the right to emergency healthcare, maternity and abortion care, and free healthcare for children under 18.
can i appeal decisions made by authorities?
Residents — and in many cases asylum seekers — have the right to appeal government decisions.
do children have the right to go to school?
Yes. Children living in Sweden have the right to education regardless of immigration status.
do i always need to carry identification?
You should carry ID and relevant documents whenever possible, especially when dealing with authorities or healthcare services.
can I contact the police if I am undocumented?
Yes. You can:
- report crimes
- ask for protection or help
- access emergency support
Your immigration status does not remove your right to report crimes or seek protection.