Culture Swedes are justly proud of their achievements and are fond of pointing them out to newcomers and others alike. In recent times the economics of the country have put something of a dent in national pride and the feeling of total security. Crime There has been an increase in racially motivated attacks by a growing number of organised neo-nazis et al. They still make the news so they can't be that common. Muggings are still relatively rare.
Burglaries are a royal pain in parts of the bigger cities.
The apartment block I live in has had the basement done about a dozen times in 24 months. I have also been the victim of another popular past time- bicycle theft. Most crimes seem to be of the economic kind so Sweden is still a pretty safe country to live in. Visas European citizens do not need a visa or work permit. As with all EU member states a residence permit is a necessity.