Find a job
Finding a job as an international can be tricky, if you don’t know where to look. Here we have gathered some tips on how you search for jobs relevant to you.
Register with employment services
If you are an EU/EEA-citizen, you don’t need a work-permit to work in Sweden. In order to help you look for work in Sweden, Arbetsförmedlingen, Swedish Public Services, has compiled practical information at: Find your new job in Sweden. They also offer Sweden’s largest and most visited employment site. There, you’ll find vacancies in many different sectors and get advice and support concerning you job search.
To find jobs that match your skills, education and experience, you are welcome to submit your CV and create a jobseeker profile in a candidate bank, accessible for registered employers only.
Create a profile on Swedish Public Employment Agency
Recognise your education
If you have a diploma or degree from another country, it is important to get it recognised in Sweden. This can help employers understand your qualifications better.
Apply for recognition on the Swedish Council for Higher Education’s website.
Adapt your CV
To find a job in Sweden, having a clear and well-structured CV is essential. Your CV should be concise, relevant, and tailored to each job you apply for.
Key guidelines:
- Keep your CV 1–2 pages maximum
- Include your name and contact information on every page, and number the pages
- Start with a short summary (bullet points) highlighting your key skills and experience
- Try to adapt your CV for each job, do not use one general CV for all applications
In Sweden it’s common to provide references from previous employers. When asked during a recruitment process, be ready to provide contact details to your references.
Educational resources
Why not participate in a webinar? Arbetsförmedlingen offers a series of podcasts and webinars on how things work with jobs and education in Sweden, how to complete a good job application and how to prepare for a job interview?
Swedish Public Employment Agency information pages.
Do you want to become more confident in using digital services in everyday life? Google Digitalakademin and the Swedish Public Employment Service offer free courses that will build your digital knowledge needed in the Swedish society.
Digitala jag– Your training in everyday digital skills.
Learn Swedish
Finding a job without speaking Swedish is possible as many international companies use English as the working language, and if you are a specialist in your field a company may be willing to hire you based on your skills. At the same time, knowing Swedish will greatly improve your employment prospects.
Contact employers directly
It’s estimated that more than half of all jobs in Sweden are filled in other ways than via an advertisement. Don’t hesitate to contact employers – particularly smaller organisations – directly and market your skills. This method is frequently used in Sweden. Even if there is nothing immediately, it may lead to something in the future.
Build your network
Network, both in person and online, and not only with other internationals but with Swedes as well. Market your skills and let people know you are looking for work. Head along to job fairs and social meetups, join a club or group and chat with your neighbours or classmates. Again, even if it’s not fruitful immediately, it may lead to something in the future.
