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Job seeking in Sweden

To be eligible for benefits from the unemployment insurance fund, you need to be in Sweden, be unemployed, and actively seeking work. This means regularly applying for jobs and following the instructions from Arbetsförmedlingen. This is a basic requirement of the unemployment insurance and is important to ensure that your benefits are not affected.

What is required of you

You must:

  • Be registered with Arbetsförmedlingen as a jobseeker.

  • Be ready to accept a job immediately if offered one.

  • Actively apply for jobs every week and document your efforts.

  • Submit an activity report to Arbetsförmedlingen every month.

  • Participate in meetings, interviews, or programs offered by Arbetsförmedlingen.

What does it mean to "actively look for work"?

You should apply for jobs that match your education, experience, and work capacity – but also be open to other types of work. You need to show that you are making a real effort to find employment.

Examples of active job seeking include:

  • Applying for jobs in your field and in other areas where you are qualified to work.

  • Uploading or updating your profile and CV on job websites.

  • Contacting employers, including unsolicited applications.

  • Attending job fairs, interviews, or networking events that may lead to employment.

  • Following up on your job applications.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Failing to submit your activity report on time (no later than the 14th of each month).

  • Applying for only a few jobs.

  • Limiting yourself to only one type of job.

  • Declining job offers or programs from Arbetsförmedlingen without valid reasons.

Tips to show that you are actively seeking work

  • Set a goal for how many jobs you will apply for each week.

  • Save copies of your applications or note down dates and contact persons.

  • Stay informed about which sectors are hiring.

  • Ask Arbetsförmedlingen for support – they can help you plan your job search.