Work Permits: International citizens wishing to work in Sweden typically need a work permit. EU/EEA citizens enjoy more relaxed rules due to freedom of movement within the EU. Non-EU/EEA citizens may need to secure a job offer before applying for a work permit. Companies hiring international candidates often assist in the work permit process.
Language: While English is widely spoken in Sweden, knowledge of the Swedish language can be an advantage, especially in the legal and compliance sector. Many roles may require fluency in both English and Swedish.
Competition: The job market in Sweden can be competitive, especially in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. Networking, having relevant experience, and understanding Swedish business culture can enhance your chances of securing a job.
Qualifications and Certifications: Ensure your qualifications and certifications are recognized in Sweden. Some professions might require additional accreditation or exams.
Networking: Building a professional network can be helpful in finding job opportunities. Attend industry events, join online forums, and use professional networking platforms.
Legal and Compliance Roles: Legal and compliance roles in Sweden can vary, ranging from corporate lawyers, compliance officers, legal advisors, to regulatory specialists, and more. Depending on your expertise and experience, you may find opportunities in various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and more.
| Job Profile | Average Salary Range (SEK per year) |
|---|---|
| Legal Counsel | 500,000 - 900,000 |
| Compliance Officer | 450,000 - 750,000 |
| Contract Manager | 450,000 - 700,000 |
| Corporate Paralegal | 400,000 - 600,000 |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | 500,000 - 800,000 |
| Data Protection Officer | 550,000 - 900,000 |
| Intellectual Property Specialist | 550,000 - 800,000 |
| Risk Management Analyst | 500,000 - 800,000 |
| Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Analyst | 400,000 - 650,000 |
| Legal Advisor | 450,000 - 700,000 |
| Compliance Manager | 600,000 - 1,000,000 |
| Privacy Officer | 550,000 - 900,000 |
| Corporate Secretary | 500,000 - 800,000 |
| Ethics and Compliance Officer | 600,000 - 900,000 |
| Legal Operations Manager | 700,000 - 1,200,000 |
| Compliance Analyst | 400,000 - 650,000 |
| Employment Law Specialist | 500,000 - 800,000 |
| Internal Auditor | 500,000 - 800,000 |
| Environmental Compliance Specialist | 550,000 - 800,000 |
| General Counsel | 800,000 - 1,500,000 |
Work Permit: If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need a work permit to work in Sweden. EU/EEA citizens generally have the right to work in Sweden without a permit. However, citizens from certain EU/EEA countries may still need to register with the Swedish Migration Agency upon arrival. Non-EU/EEA citizens must secure a job offer before applying for a work permit.
Job Offer: To obtain a work permit, you must first have a job offer from a Swedish employer. The employer needs to demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a qualified candidate from within the EU/EEA or a Swedish citizen.
Qualifications and Experience: The legal and compliance industry, like any other profession, requires relevant qualifications and experience. Depending on the job role, you may need to hold a law degree, certifications in compliance, or relevant experience in legal and regulatory matters.
Language Skills: While English is widely spoken in Sweden, especially in business settings, having a working knowledge of Swedish can be beneficial, particularly for certain roles that involve interactions with local authorities and clients.
Recognition of Qualifications: If you have qualifications from outside Sweden, it's essential to ensure that they are recognized and accredited by the relevant Swedish authorities. This process may involve validation or additional examinations.
Networking and Job Search: Utilize online job portals, professional networking platforms, and industry events to find job opportunities in the legal and compliance sector in Sweden. Networking can be especially helpful in connecting with potential employers.
Employer Support: Some companies in Sweden actively hire international talent and may provide support with the work permit application process and relocation assistance. It's worth exploring such opportunities.
Compliance with Swedish Labor Laws: Ensure that you are aware of and comply with Swedish labor laws, including regulations related to working hours, employee rights, and benefits.
| Job Profile | General Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Legal Counsel | Providing legal advice and support to the organization; drafting and reviewing contracts and agreements; representing the company in legal matters. |
| Compliance Officer | Developing and implementing compliance policies and procedures; conducting internal audits and reviews; ensuring the company complies with relevant laws and regulations. |
| Contract Manager | Managing the lifecycle of contracts; negotiating terms and conditions; identifying risks and mitigations in contracts; ensuring compliance with contractual obligations. |
| Corporate Paralegal | Assisting lawyers with legal research and documentation; preparing legal documents; maintaining corporate records; providing support in legal matters. |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Monitoring and interpreting regulations; preparing regulatory submissions; ensuring compliance with industry-specific laws and standards. |
| Data Protection Officer | Overseeing data protection and privacy compliance; conducting data protection impact assessments; handling data subject requests and breach incidents. |
| Intellectual Property Specialist | Managing intellectual property assets; conducting trademark searches; filing patent applications; handling IP infringement matters. |
| Risk Management Analyst | Assessing and analyzing risks within the organization; developing risk management strategies and policies; implementing risk mitigation measures. |
| Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Analyst | Conducting AML investigations; identifying and reporting suspicious activities; ensuring compliance with AML regulations and reporting requirements. |
| Legal Advisor | Providing legal advice on various issues; analyzing legal risks; drafting legal documents and contracts; supporting decision-making processes. |
| Compliance Manager | Leading and managing the compliance team; developing compliance programs; overseeing compliance training; reporting to senior management and regulatory authorities. |
| Privacy Officer | Overseeing the organization's privacy program; ensuring compliance with data protection laws; handling privacy-related inquiries and complaints. |
| Corporate Secretary | Managing board meetings and company records; ensuring compliance with corporate governance regulations; advising on legal and regulatory matters. |
| Ethics and Compliance Officer | Promoting ethical conduct within the organization; developing and implementing compliance and ethics programs; conducting ethics training. |
| Legal Operations Manager | Managing legal operations; streamlining legal processes and workflows; overseeing budgeting and vendor management for legal services. |
| Compliance Analyst | Analyzing data and information to assess compliance risks; preparing compliance reports; assisting in the development and implementation of compliance initiatives. |
| Employment Law Specialist | Advising on employment law matters; handling employee contracts and disputes; ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. |
| Internal Auditor | Conducting internal audits to assess compliance and internal controls; identifying areas for improvement; recommending corrective actions. |
| Environmental Compliance Specialist | Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and permits; conducting environmental impact assessments; handling compliance reporting. |
| General Counsel | Serving as the top legal advisor for the organization; managing the legal department; representing the company in high-stakes legal matters. |
| Job Profile | General Job Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Legal Counsel | Law degree and relevant legal experience; Swedish or English language proficiency; Work permit (for non-EU/EEA citizens). |
| Compliance Officer | Relevant educational background (e.g., law, business); Compliance experience; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Contract Manager | Legal or business-related degree; Contract management experience; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Corporate Paralegal | Legal assistant or paralegal certification; Legal experience; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist | Relevant educational background (e.g., law, life sciences); Regulatory knowledge; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Data Protection Officer | Data protection and privacy expertise; Knowledge of GDPR; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Intellectual Property Specialist | Intellectual property experience; Trademark or patent knowledge; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Risk Management Analyst | Risk management experience; Analytical skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Analyst | AML and compliance knowledge; Investigative skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Legal Advisor | Law degree and legal expertise; Advisory experience; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Compliance Manager | Compliance and managerial experience; Leadership skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Privacy Officer | Data protection and privacy knowledge; GDPR understanding; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Corporate Secretary | Corporate governance knowledge; Organizational skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Ethics and Compliance Officer | Ethics and compliance experience; Training skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Legal Operations Manager | Legal operations expertise; Management skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Compliance Analyst | Compliance analysis capabilities; Reporting skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Employment Law Specialist | Employment law knowledge; Experience in HR/legal; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Internal Auditor | Internal audit experience; Analytical skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| Environmental Compliance Specialist | Environmental regulations knowledge; Compliance reporting skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
| General Counsel | Law degree and extensive legal experience; Leadership and advisory skills; Swedish or English language proficiency. |
Entry-Level Positions: For entry-level positions, such as compliance analysts or legal assistants, employers may seek candidates with little to no prior professional experience in the legal and compliance industry. These roles often provide on-the-job training and are suitable for recent graduates or individuals looking to make a career change.
Mid-Level Positions: Mid-level roles, such as compliance officers, contract managers, or paralegals, typically require a few years of experience in a related field or a combination of education and work experience. Candidates with specific experience in compliance, contracts, or legal support roles are often preferred.
Senior-Level Positions: Senior-level roles, such as legal counsel, compliance managers, or directors, usually demand extensive experience in the legal and compliance industry. Candidates for these positions are expected to have several years of relevant experience, often with a track record of leadership, decision-making, and strategic thinking.
Specialized Roles: Certain specialized roles, such as intellectual property specialists, data protection officers, or regulatory affairs experts, may require niche expertise and experience in their respective fields. Candidates for such roles might need specific certifications or demonstrated experience in similar positions.
Industry-Specific Experience: In some cases, employers might prioritize candidates with experience in specific industries, especially for compliance roles. For example, candidates with compliance experience in the financial sector might be preferred for compliance positions in banks or financial institutions.
Language Skills: Proficiency in Swedish and/or English can also influence the experience required. International companies may value candidates with international experience and multilingual abilities.
Ericsson: A multinational networking and telecommunications company headquartered in Stockholm.
ABB: A leading technology company specializing in electrification, robotics, automation, and power technologies.
Spotify: A global music streaming service headquartered in Stockholm.
IKEA: A well-known Swedish multinational retail company that designs and sells ready-to-assemble furniture, appliances, and home accessories.
Volvo Group: A manufacturer of trucks, buses, construction equipment, and marine and industrial engines.
H&M: A multinational fashion retailer based in Stockholm, known for its clothing and accessories.
Skanska: A construction and development company operating worldwide.
SEB: A Swedish financial group offering banking, asset management, and other financial services.
Electrolux: A global home appliance manufacturer with headquarters in Stockholm.
Nordea: A Nordic financial services group offering banking, asset management, and insurance products.
Telia Company: A telecommunications company providing mobile and fixed-line services.
Scania: A manufacturer of trucks and buses, based in Södertälje, Sweden.
Handelsbanken: A Swedish bank with a strong international presence.
Autoliv: A company specializing in automotive safety systems.
Vattenfall: A leading European energy company, with a presence in electricity generation and distribution.
Assa Abloy: A global leader in door opening solutions, headquartered in Stockholm.
Securitas: A security services company operating worldwide.
Swedbank: A major Swedish bank offering banking and financial services.
Atlas Copco: A manufacturer of industrial tools and equipment.
Svenska Handelsbanken: Another prominent Swedish bank with an international presence.
1. Personal Information: Include your full name, contact information (phone number and email address), and, if applicable, your LinkedIn profile URL.
2. Professional Summary (Optional): A brief, compelling summary of your skills and experience can help catch the employer's attention. Focus on how your expertise aligns with the legal and compliance industry.
3. Work Experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order (starting with the most recent job). Include the following details for each position:
4. Education: Include your educational qualifications, starting with the highest degree achieved. Mention the institution's name, degree earned, and graduation year.
5. Certifications and Training: If you have relevant certifications or completed any specialized training programs related to legal and compliance, include them in a separate section.
6. Skills: Highlight your relevant skills, including legal expertise, compliance knowledge, language proficiency (Swedish and/or English), and any other relevant technical skills.
7. Language Proficiency: Indicate your language proficiency, especially if you are proficient in both Swedish and English.
8. Achievements and Awards: If you have received any awards or accolades related to your legal and compliance work, include them as a separate section.
9. Professional Memberships: If you are a member of any relevant professional associations or organizations, mention them.
10. References (Optional): It's not necessary to include references in your CV or resume, but you can mention that references are available upon request.
1. Research the Job Market: Start by researching the legal and compliance job market in Sweden. Look for companies, industries, and sectors that align with your expertise and career goals. Identify the companies you're interested in working for and check their websites for job openings.
2. Update Your CV or Resume: Tailor your CV or resume to highlight your relevant legal and compliance experience, skills, and education. Be sure to emphasize any international experience, language proficiency (especially in Swedish and English), and specific certifications or training related to legal and compliance.
3. Explore Job Portals: Search for legal and compliance job openings on Swedish job portals and international job platforms. Some popular job portals in Sweden include Arbetsförmedlingen (Swedish Public Employment Service), LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster.
4. Networking: Network with professionals in the legal and compliance industry. Attend industry events, webinars, and seminars, both online and in-person, to connect with potential employers and expand your professional network.
5. Company Websites: Visit the career sections of companies you're interested in. Many organizations in Sweden advertise job openings on their official websites.
6. Apply Online: Submit your CV or resume and a tailored cover letter for each job application. Mention your interest in working for the specific company and how your skills align with the position's requirements.
7. Follow Application Instructions: Carefully follow the application instructions provided by each employer. Some companies may request additional documents or require you to fill out an online application form.
8. Work Permit (for Non-EU/EEA Citizens): If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, ensure you have the necessary work permit to work legally in Sweden. Employers may assist you with the work permit process, but it's essential to understand the requirements and application process.
9. Prepare for Interviews: If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare for interviews by researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and being ready to discuss your legal and compliance experience in detail.
10. Follow Up: After submitting your application or attending an interview, consider sending a follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position.
11. Be Patient: Job hunting can take time, so be patient and persistent. Keep applying to relevant job openings and stay proactive in your job search.
