BEST SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRIES TO MOVE AND WHY
When contemplating an international move, Scandinavia emerges as an alluring choice. This enchanting region, comprising Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, boasts a beguiling blend of natural beauty and progressive societies. These countries are a testament to perplexity in governance and burstiness in innovation. Let’s have a closer look at the best Scandinavian countries to move to and why they make excellent destinations for expats and global nomads.
Sweden
Sweden, with its commitment to sustainable living and renewable energy, epitomizes a green utopia. Burstiness in environmental policies has led to remarkable advancements in clean technology and eco-friendly practices. It’s no wonder Sweden beckons those with a penchant for green living.
Quality of Life
Stockholm’s beautiful canals and archipelagos are a sight to behold. You can explore them by boat or just wander the streets and bridges, taking in views of the glistening waterways that give the city its nickname. Sweden, as a whole, is ideal for those who love the outdoors. There are vast forests, hiking trails, crystal clear lakes, and over 96,000 islands along its extensive coastline.
Beyond the abundant natural beauty, Sweden is appealing for its relaxed and cultured vibe. Work-life balance is valued, so you can expect generous vacation time. Raising a family is supported, too, with 480 days of paid parental leave to divide between parents. Sweden’s social support programs also help create a very high standard of living.
Education
Education is another major plus. Sweden offers free education at public universities for all students, including international ones. Educational standards are high, with creative programs that encourage students to think critically rather than just memorize.
Healthcare
Healthcare is mainly publicly funded, creating a system that’s affordable for all. You’ll only pay a maximum yearly fee of around $150 for doctor visits and $250 for prescription medications.
Business Opportunities
For entrepreneurs and businesses, Sweden has a robust, diversified economy and ranks high for ease of doing business. Major international companies like Spotify, Skype, IKEA, and H&M started in Sweden across industries like tech, retail, and telecommunications. There are ample business opportunities in this progressive, innovation-driven economy.
Norway
Norway is renowned for its breathtaking fjords, midnight sun during summer, Northern Lights, and pristine wilderness. It’s one of the happiest and most prosperous countries in the world.
Quality of Life
Thanks to its oil wealth, Norway has a very high GDP per capita. Norwegians enjoy an outstanding work-life balance and access to nature. Pollution rates are low in the cities. Norway offers expats a relaxed pace of life.
Healthcare
Norway has universal healthcare that’s free for legal residents. The system is high quality with short wait times for treatment.
Education
Education is free at public universities in Norway, including for international students. Academic standards are high, particularly in science and technology programs.
Job Opportunities
The job market is strong in Norway, with abundant opportunities in industries like oil and gas, renewable energy, fishing, and shipping. Unemployment rates are low. Note that you’ll need to get a work visa sponsorship from an employer in Norway.
Iceland
Iceland’s geothermal wonders and rugged terrain epitomize the perplexity of nature. Burstiness in adventure awaits those who dare to explore its volcanic landscapes and glaciers. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Quality of Life
Iceland ranks high on quality of life indices. Icelandic culture emphasizes gender equality, work-life balance, and protecting nature. Pollution is low and clean, and renewable energy is abundant.
Natural Wonders
Iceland has breathtaking natural scenery, from glaciers to hot springs to thundering waterfalls. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with national parks and hiking trails that show off the volcanic landscape.
Healthcare
Iceland has universal healthcare that’s primarily funded through taxes. There are also private insurance options. The system provides high-quality medical services with low wait times.
Business Opportunities
Key industries in Iceland include aluminum smelting, geothermal power, and fishing. Iceland’s small, educated population makes it easy to network and find job opportunities, especially in Reykjavik.
Iceland makes a great choice for those who want proximity to stunning nature and an excellent quality of life. Be prepared for rapidly changing and unpredictable weather!
Denmark
Denmark is repeatedly ranked as the happiest country in the world. The Danes enjoy a very high quality of life, job satisfaction, and work-life balance.
Quality of Life
Denmark is a socially progressive country with strong gender equality. Danes value family and hygge, a culture of coziness. There’s excellent infrastructure for bicycling. Denmark also has thriving cultural scenes in Copenhagen and Aarhus.
Business Opportunities
Denmark has a dynamic, modern market economy and ranks high for ease of doing business. Key industries include renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, shipping, furniture design and LEGO. Unemployment rates are low.
Healthcare
Denmark has universal healthcare that’s mainly tax-funded. You pay little to nothing for hospital and doctor visits. Prescription medications are subsidized.
Education
The public university is free in Denmark, including for international students. Educational standards are high and aimed at creativity and independence.
Finland
Finland’s perplexing landscapes, characterized by pristine lakes and dense forests, provide a serene backdrop for the burstiness of its education system.
Quality of Life
Finland regularly ranks among the best countries for quality of life. Finnish culture values equality, nature, cooperation, and honesty. Work-life balance is highly prized.
Education
Finland has a top-rated education system. The public university is free for international students. The schools focus on creativity and collaboration rather than standardized testing.
Business Opportunities
The top industries in Finland include electronics, metals, machinery, and forestry. Major international companies like Nokia and Supercell started in Finland. There are abundant STEM and manufacturing jobs.
Healthcare
Finland has universal healthcare that ranks among the world’s best. Private medical and dental care are also affordable. Finland has one of the world’s most inferior infant mortality rates.
Relocating Tips
- Get your visas in order – Make sure you have the proper work, residence, and/or study permits lined up well in advance.
- Learn some of the language – The Scandinavian languages are Germanic, like English, but picking up a little vocabulary shows your interest in integrating.
- Rent first – Get familiar with the areas and your commute before committing to a purchase. Rental markets are accessible in Scandinavian cities.
- Bring warm clothes – The Scandinavian winters are cold, dark, and long, so bring your warmest jackets, boots, hats, and mittens.
- Connect with expats – Join expat groups and international associations to meet new people and find tips for adapting abroad.
With their high quality of life, progressive values, and abundant nature, the Scandinavian countries make excellent destinations for relocation. Do plenty of research to decide on the country and city that are right for your goals and preferences.
PMR specializes in helping people move internationally. Their global network of moving companies can assist with packing and moving your belongings. They’ll coordinate customs docs and ensure your items arrive safely in your new Scandinavian home. Contact PMR today to get a free quote!
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