# Rent apartment Lund immigrant: Step-by-step guide 2025

*Valter Strömberg*
*3 augusti 2026*

> Renting an apartment in Lund as an immigrant requires understanding Swedish regulations, ID requirements, and housing queues. This practical guide walks you through each step and shows how to navigate the rental market without Swedish history.

Renting an apartment in Lund as an immigrant can feel overwhelming. You face language barriers, unfamiliar documentation requirements, ID complications, and a rental market that works completely differently from your home country. But with the right information and strategy, finding a home in Lund is entirely possible. This guide walks you through each step of the process and addresses the unique challenges that newly arrived and established immigrants face.

## Rent apartment Lund immigrant: A practical process

The housing search in Sweden follows a system that differs significantly from many other countries. To succeed, you must understand both the formal requirements and the unwritten norms that govern the rental market. Below is a step-by-step guide tailored to your needs.

### Step 1: Obtain a personal number or coordination number

The first and most important step when you rent an apartment in Lund is to get a personal number (personnummer) or coordination number (samordningsnummer). Most landlords require this to enter into a rental contract. If you are newly arrived, you can apply for a coordination number from the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket), even if you don't have a permanent personal number yet.

The coordination number serves as a temporary ID and is accepted by many landlords. The process typically takes 1–2 weeks. Without any number, it becomes nearly impossible to sign a formal lease, so this should be your first priority.

### Step 2: Gather necessary documentation

When you search for housing without Swedish history, you need to present a strong documentation profile. Collect the following documents:

- **Employment certificate or work contract** – shows you have stable income
- **Salary statement** – from your employer or recent payslip
- **Bank reference** – from your bank, preferably in Swedish or English
- **Personal reference** – from previous landlords, employers, or other people who can confirm your reliability
- **Identity document** – passport or equivalent
- **Previous rental contract** – if you have one

Many immigrants lack Swedish credit history, which can make landlords cautious. By presenting this documentation, you show that you are a serious tenant.

### Step 3: Register in housing queues

One of the most effective strategies for housing search as an immigrant in Lund is to register in official housing queues. Two main options exist:

**AF Bostäder (Employment Agency Housing)** – offers apartments for job seekers and newly arrived immigrants. Registration is free and can give you access to a large selection of housing.

**LKF (Lund Municipality Properties)** – is the municipality's own housing company and manages many apartments in Lund. They often have a queue, but prioritize newly arrived immigrants and people with low incomes.

Registration in these queues takes time – often several months before you receive an offer – but it is a stable path forward. Many immigrants combine queue registration with private housing search.

### Step 4: Search private rental apartments

Private landlords and housing companies advertise on platforms such as Blocket, Hemnet, and Facebook groups. Here are some tips:

- **Read the ad carefully** – many landlords already state what requirements they have
- **Respond quickly** – competition is fierce, especially for affordable apartments
- **Present yourself professionally** – write a personal message in Swedish (or English) explaining your situation
- **Be honest about your background** – many landlords appreciate transparency
- **Offer security** – suggest paying two months' rent in advance if possible

### Step 5: Prepare for viewings and interviews

When you get a viewing, it's important to make a good impression. Landlords want to see that you are responsible and respectful. Arrive on time, dress presentably, and show genuine interest in the apartment. Be prepared to answer questions about:

- Your employment and income
- How long you plan to live in Lund
- Your housing history
- Your references

### Step 6: Understand the rental agreement

When you receive an offer, it's critical to understand the rental agreement before signing. If you're not entirely confident in Swedish, you can:

- Ask the landlord for an English version
- Use a translation service
- Contact the Swedish Tenants' Association for help interpreting the terms

Specifically check:
- Rent amount and payment date
- What is included (heating, water, furniture)
- Notice period
- Damage and deposits
- Terms for furniture and pets

### Step 7: Register as a tenant and establish yourself

Once you have signed the rental agreement, it's important to:

- **Update your address** with the Tax Agency and other authorities
- **Register with the population register** – this is mandatory and important for obtaining a personal number
- **Register with your new doctor** and dentist
- **Join the Swedish Tenants' Association** – for protection and advice

## Important rights and protections

As a tenant in Sweden, you have rights regardless of your origin. According to Swedish law, a landlord cannot discriminate against you based on ethnicity, nationality, or religion. If you experience discrimination, you can contact the Swedish Tenants' Association or the Equality Ombudsman.

You also have the right to:
- A written rental contract
- Reasonable notice period (usually 3 months)
- Get your deposit back when you move
- Live in a safe and well-maintained apartment

## Common questions

### Can I rent an apartment without a personal number?

It is very difficult to rent an apartment without a personal number or coordination number. Most landlords require this to conduct a credit check and sign a formal agreement. Your first step should be to obtain a coordination number from the Tax Agency.

### How long does it take to find housing in Lund as an immigrant?

The time varies greatly. Private housing search can be quick – sometimes a few weeks – but queues with AF Bostäder and LKF can take several months or years. Many immigrants combine both strategies to increase their chances.

### What do I do if I experience discrimination when searching for housing?

Discrimination is illegal. Document what happened, save all communication, and contact the Swedish Tenants' Association or the Equality Ombudsman. You can also report to the police if you believe it is serious.

## Summary

Renting an apartment in Lund as an immigrant requires planning, patience, and knowledge of Swedish regulations. By following these steps – from obtaining a personal number to gathering documentation, registering in queues, and actively searching the private market – you increase your chances of finding a home. Remember that you have rights as a tenant and that organizations can provide you with support and guidance. With persistence and the right strategy, you will succeed.