Work in Sweden

Sweden has one of the highest standards of living in the world with subsidised public services and Swedish laws protecting equality and tolerance. There is an open and accessible society and a rewarding work-life balance...

Job market in Sweden

Sweden is recognised for its good work conditions and practices. It combines a capitalist economy with a strong public sector and welfare system. The job market is among the strongest in the world. There is always a demand for skilled workers, especially in the IT, engineering, public health and education sectors. If you are a qualified and highly skilled worker, check out the Swedish Migration Board's Sweden - Labour Shortage List .

There are several multinational companies based in Sweden, namely AstraZeneca, IKEA, SAAB and H&M.   

Teaching English as a foreign language is one of the most accessible jobs for native English speakers living abroad. You don't need to be fluent in your host country's language to do this, as it is preferable to create a strictly English-speaking classroom environment. To begin looking for English teaching roles in Sweden, go to British Council - English Language Teaching Centres in Sweden . 

Job vacancies

For jobs in Sweden, search:

• EURES  
• Working in Sweden  
• The Local - Jobs in Sweden

Work experience and internships in Sweden

You can make speculative applications directly to individual companies and ask them about training opportunities. For contacts and resources, go to Export Radet - The Swedish Trade Council .

Internships and summer work placements for students can also be arranged by:

• AIESEC UK  - for students and recent graduates;
• IAESTE UK  - for science, engineering and applied arts students.

Volunteering in Sweden

Voluntary work is a great way to build your skill-set and learn a new language. It will help to have some money saved before you set off, as the vast majority of voluntary positions are unpaid. Volunteer positions look great on your CV and give you the chance to network and build contacts.

The European Voluntary Service (EVS) , funded by the European Commission, is a scheme aimed at people aged 18 to 30 wishing to volunteer abroad. It offers young people the chance to volunteer for up to 12 months in a number of European and non-European countries.

Opportunities vary from placements concerned with sport and culture to others focuses on social care and the environment. For successful applicants, accommodation, travel, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant and you even receive a personal allowance each month.

Make sure you thoroughly research all volunteering opportunities and always check the terms and conditions before committing yourself to a scheme.

Language requirements

On arriving in Sweden, you won't need much knowledge of the language, as English is widely spoken. Swedish people are taught English from a very young age and subsequently much of the population speak it fluently. However, learning Swedish will improve your chances of finding a job and it will also help you to settle in. It is worth learning some before you go.

There are Swedish language courses in the UK and many good websites exist to help you learn a language or improve your skills. To test and then sharpen your skills, visit BBC Languages - Swedish .

Swedish visas and immigration

According to the European Commission, European Union (EU) citizens have the right to:

• move to another EU country to work without a work permit;
• enjoy equal treatment with nationals in access to employment, working conditions and all other social and tax advantages;
• stay in the country even after employment has finished.

For more information and to check what conditions and restrictions apply, see:

• European Commission - Free Movement EU Nationals  
• Europa - Work-Related Rights  
• Europa - Workers and Pensioners  

As an EU national, you will adhere to the same rights and regulations as Swedish nationals. Non-European nationals must obtain a written offer of employment before they can apply for work and residential permits.