Internships in Sweden

Welcome to the land that brought you the almighty powerhouses known as H&M, IKEA, Spotify, and even ABBA! The Kingdom of Sweden is made up of 200,000+ islands and is located in Northern Europe alongside Norway and Finland. Modern Sweden has one of the highest living standards in the world along with one of the longest life expectancies amongst its citizens. Interning in Sweden may just give you a few extra years on this planet (aka more time to go abroad)!

Stockholm. Known as the “Venice of the North”, Stockholm is a city built around water with 12 islands and 42 bridges. Reigning as Sweden’s capital, this city is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, royal artitecture, and Swedish pop—with a dash of hipster culture . Also nicknamed as the well-earned “Capital of Scandinavia,” Stockholm is equipped with trendy clubs, ethnic diversity, and a wholesome lifestyle that encourages city bike systems and healthy meals. Norrmalm and Kista are the districts in Stockholm where innovation and an urban lifestyle thrive, making them ideal for internships. Walking through this dynamic cityscape, you may even notice the refreshing effects of paternity leave as men dominate the sidewalks with their babies and take-out coffee (#Ca-yute)! 

Gothenburg. Also referred to as “little London” by the locals, Sweden’s second-largest city boasts Michelin-star restaurants, buzzing cafe culture, fresh seafood, and serves as the birthplace of Volvo. Gothenburg’s enviable portfolio of scuzzy beer dens and under the radar hangouts are partly due to the central university located in town. The cities toy-town charm and abundant number of parks allows visitors to escape the hectic tourist crowds in Stockholm at a lower cost. Its flourishing contemporary arts scene and heavy metal industry will be perfect for interns looking to gain experience in the arts and construction. Or maybe you’re just looking for an excuse to eat a cinnamon bun bigger than your face? That’s acceptable too!

Ever wanted to intern as a Viking? Well, you may be a millennium too late… However, Sweden still offers multiple internships that will make your resume as sweet as lingonberries! Nothing as cool as forging axes—but helping discover the next scientific breakthrough still sounds pretty great! 

Technology. Where in the world would we be (quite literally) without the Global Position System (GPS). Or how would 187/195 countries measure their temperature without the Celsius Scale? We have to thank the Swedes for revolutionizing many initiatives that have become critical in today's age. Internships in Sweden can vary from automotive and transportation to sustainable green technology movements. Sweden produces about 40 percent of its own power, which has resulted in billion dollar revenues and countless job opportunities. Major companies like General Electric and Volvo are waiting for driven interns like yourself!

Communications. Let’s talk communications and thank L.M Ericsson for making the telephone handset a reality back in the late 1800’s. His work contributed to major innovation in telecommunications and caused the company Ericsson to become a forefront in communications technology. Communication internships in Sweden will allow you to learn more about the country’s knowledge-based economy, which emphasizes human resources. Marketing communication interns are also wanted for Swedish-retailers H&M and IKEA. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to Skype your grandma with the good news! Did we mention a Swede co-founded that too? Yupp.

If Sweden’s high standard of living has your wallet coughing up dust bunnies, fear not! Most internships or traineeships in Sweden are paid. Interns will receive a salary to cover their cost of living—especially if the internship takes place via a placement programme for higher education. Students could be entitled to a living allowance that covers food, accommodation, and travel. Food can be expensive with street options starting at $3 and restaurant meals averaging $20. It’s best to grocery shop each week—and cut down on meat and cheese—to save even further! Buying a metrocard will be the best mode of transportation as they include busses, trams, subways, and boats. Prices vary for each region so be sure to inquire! Check out FundMyTravel and our killer scholarship directory for ideas on promoting your internship in Sweden! Who knows, that Skype call you had with grandma earlier may just result into some extra pocket change. 

Most often, the organizations that handle training/internship placements will help interns find accommodation and even arrange it for them. Interns or trainees can also search for rental flats on the open market, but student housing is the more affordable option. Monthly rent will vary depending on location, size, and type. However, the average student accommodation can range from $400-$800 per room.

Residence permit regulations for internships vary based on your country of citizenship and internship programme. Most Non-EU citizens will have to show proof of a paid employment offer prior to their arrival in Sweden. Interns will need to apply for a work permit or a residence permit (for stays over three months). Most of the time, your organization will help you arrange the visa details, but it’s always ideal to double check with them first. For more info about visas, visit GoAbroad’s embassy directory!

While winters can be long and dark, there are still many moments to celebrate all year long! Midsummer’s Eve is one of the important days of the year—even rivaling christmas— that ignites festive spirit, traditions, and feasting (smörgåsbord FTW)! There will be a plethora of options to explore on your days off. Rooted in Viking traditions, Sweden’s ruins will make life seem like a walk through history, but with a modern twist. 

Your internship in Sweden will equate to a higher quality of living and experience. With strong egalitarian views, the overarching principle in Sweden is that everyone, regardless of gender, has the right to work and support themselves, while balancing their career and family life. This ideal is what continuously ranks Sweden as one of the most equal places to live and what will contribute to your overall experience as an intern. Choose your program and go be THAT dancing queen (or king) that ABBA would be proud of.