Stockholm, with its mix of tech start-ups and creative jobs, is full of job opportunities, whether you’re looking for something part-time while you study or a full-time role after you graduate.

The great thing is, even if you don’t speak Swedish, you can still find good jobs here, especially if you speak English.

Now, finding a job in this city isn’t always easy – it can be pretty tough. But don’t worry, this article is here to help.

I’ll guide you through it, giving you all the tips and tricks you need to land a great job in Stockholm. Let’s begin.

Preparations to Find a Job in Stockholm

Before starting to look for a job with a good salary (hopefully) in Stockholm you should make sure you got all the paperwork, like:

Swedish Residence Permit & Tax ID (Personnummer)

Securing your residence permit and Swedish tax ID (a.k.a. Personnummer) is essential to get a job (with its amazing benefits) and earn a salary in Stockholm as its is what will allow to to stay legally in the country.

• For Non-EU/EEA Nationals: You must bring along proof of your Swedish residence permit. It’s an essential document that proves you’re legally allowed to stay and work in Stockholm. EEU/EEA nationals do not need to do this.
• Application Process: Once you land in Stockholm, make a line to the local Swedish Tax Agency. It’s crucial to do this promptly as it sets the stage for everything else.
• Requirements: You need to show that you’re in Stockholm for the long haul – a year or more – and provide a local address (along with your residence permit, if you’re a foreigner).

You might be interested in: How to get a Residence Permit in Sweden?

Work Visa

One of the most common ways to find a job in Stockholm as a foreigner (or anywhere in Sweden, for that matter) legally starts with obtaining a work visa as it’s what will give you residence permit and personnummer (which will allow you to stay in Sweden and look for work legally).

You might be interested in: How to get a work visa in Sweden?

What Documents Should You Bring?

Along with your online application, you need to submit a few critical documents, such as:

• job contract (make sure it’s signed!)
• passport copies
• other relevant documents that prove your professional prowess

Work Visa: Step-by-Step Guide

First off, you need to apply online before you even think about setting foot in Stockholm.

1. Start by visiting the Swedish Migration Agency’s website. This is your portal to the Swedish job market. Here’s the link to get you started: Swedish Migration Agency.
2. Fill out the application form. It’s straightforward, but don’t rush it. Accuracy is key.
3. Pay the application fee.

Additional requirements for non EU/EEA citizens

Now, here’s a crucial part: ensure that the job you’re eyeing was advertised in the EU/EEA for at least ten days.

This isn’t just a formality. It’s a way to ensure fair play in the job market and that the position is genuinely open to both locals and internationals.

For more detailed information and to ensure you’ve got everything covered, I highly recommend visiting The Swedish Migration Agency’s Checklist or check my article on work visas in Sweden.

Getting a work visa is not the only way to get a residence permit to live and work in Sweden as a foreigner. In fact, there are other visas to get it (i.e. with an EU Blue card). If you’re interested in learning more about it you can read my article about all the available residence permits in Sweden or just got to Migrationsverket’s website and take a look around.

Health Insurance

In Stockholm, having health insurance isn’t just a safety net; it’s often a prerequisite for securing a job as it’s what’s going to cover you when you’re sick.

Once you have your Personnummer in hand, registering for health insurance is next on your list.

Find a local healthcare center, or “Vårdcentral,” in your neighborhood in Stockholm. These centers are your primary point of contact for most health-related services.

It’s important to choose one that’s conveniently located, as it will be your go-to place for medical consultations.

Remember, being registered at a Vårdcentral is essential for accessing Sweden’s healthcare system and is often a requirement for employment.

Oh, and remember, health insurance is not only important to make sure you’re covered in case something bad happens but also is a requirement for many visas in Sweden (i.e. work visa, self employed visa, etc).

The good news?

You’ll not only be avoiding going broke in case something bad happens to you, but you’ll also still be enjoying coverage even if you decide to quit and change jobs.

Background Check

I always say that starting background checks early in your job search in Stockholm is a nice idea as they’re particularly common for big and international companies.

• First Step: Reach out to your potential employer in Stockholm to understand their specific requirements for a background check. Different companies might have varying criteria.
• Local Police Involvement: You may need to contact the local police authority for a background record check. They can guide you through their specific procedures and tell you what documents you’ll need to provide.
• Gathering Documents: Be prepared to gather and present personal identification documents, potentially including your Personnummer, to facilitate the background check process.

Swedish Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Stockholm is a vital step, especially if you’re gearing up to receive that first paycheck.

• Necessary Documents: You’ll need your passport, residence permit, job contract, Personnummer, and a Swedish ID to get started.
• In-Person Registration: Thanks to Sweden’s banking regulations, you’ll likely need to pop into a bank branch to open your account.

When it comes to choosing a bank in Stockholm, here are some popular choices among expats and locals:

• N26: Known for its user-friendly English services and no-fee policies.
• Revolut: Offers a seamless digital banking experience with various perks.
• Swedbank: A local favorite with comprehensive banking services.
• Nordea: Widely used, offering a range of financial services.
• Handelsbanken

Each of these banks caters to different needs, so consider what’s most important for you – be it digital convenience, English-speaking customer service, or a wide range of banking products

Prepare a CV and Cover Letter

If you’re not planning on starting a new business and you’re thinking of getting a job in Sweden so you can stop being unemployed, then you’ll need both a great CV and cover letter.

In Stockholm’s competitive job market, these documents are more than just formalities; they’re your ticket to standing out in a sea of applicants.

Let’s start with the CV:

1. Keep it Concise: Swedes appreciate brevity. Aim for one page, two at the most. This isn’t the place for your autobiography.
2. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Roles: Swedish employers love to see what you’ve actually accomplished (whether that is actual work experience or volunteer work). Instead of just listing your job duties, highlight specific achievements and how they’ve impacted your previous workplaces.
3. Include a Personal Touch: Add a short section about your hobbies or interests. It gives a glimpse into who you are outside work and can be a conversation starter.
4. Languages are a Plus: If you speak Swedish, fantastic! If not, any other languages you know can be a big asset, especially in international companies.
5. Tailor It to the Job: This is crucial. Customize your CV for each job application. Show how your skills and experience make you the perfect fit for the specific role. Also, if the job you’re applying for normally involves overtime hours, you can show your willingness to do overtime work in your cover letter.

You might be interested in: How to write a CV in Sweden?

The cover letter is where you can let your personality shine. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Keep It Short and Sweet: Aim for half a page. Grab their attention quickly and maintain it.
2. Connect with the Company: Show that you’ve done your homework. Mention something specific about the company that excites you and align it with your experience or skills.
3. Be Personal and Professional: Strike a balance. Show enthusiasm and personality, but keep it professional. This isn’t a text to a friend.
4. Highlight Why You’re a Great Fit: Link your skills and experiences directly to what the job ad is asking for. Make it easy for them to see why you’re the candidate they’ve been searching for.
5. End with a Call to Action: Something simple like, “I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team” can be effective.

You might be interested in: How to write a cover letter in Sweden?

How and Where to Find a Job in Stockholm

With your CV and cover letter ready to impress, let’s zero in on the best places to hunt for jobs in Stockholm.

Start your search with these popular sites:

• Arbetsförmedlingen: Think of it as the IKEA of job sites – comprehensive and user-friendly.
• The Local: This is a goldmine for English-speaking jobs, perfect if your Swedish is still a work in progress.
• Jobbsafari: This is a treasure trove for job seekers, offering a wide range of opportunities in the Stockholm area.
• StepStone Sweden: Tailored for professional roles, it’s a hotspot for those looking for mid to high-level positions.
• Monster Sweden: Another great resource, Monster offers a variety of job listings in Stockholm, from tech startups to established corporations.

Besides job boards, here is a list of potential types of gig economy platforms that might be popular in Stockholm which could allow you to easily get a job as a freelancer:

1. Ride-Sharing Apps: Services such as Uber and Bolt, providing opportunities for individuals to earn income by transporting passengers around the city.
2. Delivery Services: Platforms like Foodora, where individuals can sign up to deliver food and other items.
3. Task-Based Services: Apps such as TaskRunnerx, where individuals can find short-term tasks or errands that need doing, like furniture assembly or handyman work.

You might be interested in: How to decline a job offer in Sweden?

Interview Preparation

Now, it’s time to prepare and make a lasting impression.

Here’s how you can ace that interview:

1. Research the Company: Understand the company’s values, culture, and recent achievements. Swedes appreciate when you show genuine interest and knowledge about their company.
2. Understand Swedish Work Culture: Familiarize yourself with Swedish workplace norms. For example, punctuality during working hours is highly valued, and there’s a strong emphasis on work-life balance and equality.
3. Practice Your Responses: While you can’t predict every question, preparing for common interview questions is crucial. Focus on clear, concise answers that highlight your skills and experiences relevant to the job.
4. Mind the Language: If the interview is in Swedish and you’re not fluent, it’s okay to ask if you can answer in English. Many Swedes speak excellent English, and this request is often accommodated.
5. Prepare Your Own Questions: Interviews in Stockholm are often seen as two-way streets. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team, or company. It shows your enthusiasm and engagement.

You might be interested in: HR interview questions in Sweden?