Personal Number & Housing
What does it mean?
The personal number (personnummer) is the key to the Swedish housing market. The vast majority of landlords, housing queues, and digital platforms require a personal number for you to apply for housing. It is used to run credit checks (UC), verify your identity, and create lease agreements. Without one, many doors are closed — but alternatives exist.
To get a personal number, you must be registered as a resident in Sweden (folkbokförd), which requires planning to live here for at least one year. The process typically takes 2–8 weeks via the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket). In the meantime, you can use a coordination number or search for housing through private landlords and platforms that don't require a personal number.
Key Points
- Required by most housing queues (e.g., Stockholm Housing Agency) and public housing companies
- Used for credit checks (UC/Creditsafe) that landlords commonly request
- Registration at Skatteverket required — planned stay of at least 12 months
- Processing time typically 2–8 weeks after complete application
- Private landlords and digital platforms like Bofrid may offer alternatives
Practical Tip
Apply for population registration at Skatteverket as soon as you have a residence permit or EU citizenship. Bring your passport, employment contract, or proof of studies. While waiting, look for furnished apartments and sublets via platforms that don't require a personal number.