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Work & jobs in Sweden
Work rules in Sweden depend on your nationality and residence status. EU/EEA citizens can usually work freely; non-EU citizens should confirm that their permit allows the job before signing.
Employment offices in Sweden
Arbetsförmedlingen: Public employment service, etableringsprogrammet. Phone: 0771-416 416.
Job-search and permit steps
Get a personal number (personnummer): Required for healthcare, banking, work and most contracts. Apply at Skatteverket once you have a residence permit valid 12+ months. Book a visit at Skatteverket — Bring passport, residence-permit card, marriage/birth certificates (translated to Swedish or English) and a rental contract. Register your address (folkbokföring) — You must be living at the address — Skatteverket can check. Update within a week if you move. Receive your number by post — Takes 2–8 weeks. With it you can apply for BankID and open a bank account. Free Swedish classes (SFI): Every adult resident is entitled to free Swedish lessons. Register with your kommun — You need a personnummer. Classes are daytime or evening, in-person or online. Combine with Etableringsprogrammet — Arbetsförmedlingen pays a daily allowance while you study + look for work — for refugees and family reunification arrivals in the first 2 years. Your rights: You're protected by Swedish law from your first day, regardless of permit type. Discrimination — Report to Diskrimineringsombudsmannen (DO.se) — free. Domestic violence — Call 112 in danger; 020-50 50 50 (Kvinnofridslinjen) for free anonymous support in many languages. Workplace abuse — Contact a union (LO, TCO, SACO) — many offer free help even if you're not a member yet.
Contracts and worker rights
Ask for a written contract before the first shift. It should show working hours, salary, probation, holiday, sick leave and notice period. Keep payslips and messages from the employer in case you need help from a union or labour office.
Diplomas and regulated professions
Doctors, nurses, teachers, drivers, electricians and other regulated workers usually need formal recognition before working independently. Start recognition early because it can take months.
Frequently asked questions
Where do newcomers look for jobs in Sweden?
Start with Arbetsförmedlingen, recognised employers, local job portals and municipal integration offices.
Which office should I contact first in Sweden?
Start with Arbetsförmedlingen. For broader newcomer help, also check Migrationsverket, Skatteverket, Försäkringskassan.
What language will offices use in Sweden?
The main administrative language is Swedish. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need to speak the local language to work?
Not always — many international employers work in English. But for public-sector roles and most customer-facing jobs, local language is expected.
What is the minimum wage?
It varies widely across the EU. Your national employment authority publishes current rates.