Glossary
In Swedish grammar the article is added at the end of the word. For example –en/–et means “the”, and –or/–ar makes it plural. Also, there are three extra letters in the Swedish alphabet: å, ä, ö. As you will note in this alphabetized glossary, these three letters come at the end of the 26 letter Latin alphabet.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q
R S T U V W
X
Y
Z
Å
Ä
Ö
The official emergency number within most European countries, including Sweden.
back to topThe phone number of the Swedish emergency information call-center, where you can ask questions about recent accidents and other emergencies.
back to topThe phone number used to reach the Swedish police in non-emergency matters.
back to topA Swedish lawyer who is bound by stricter ethical rules, has more qualifications and has a higher level of liability to their clients.
back to topThe Swedish Bar Association, which has been given the right to regulate the professional behavior of their members. Only members of this organization are allowed to use the title Advokat.
back to topUnemployment insurance fund. Short for
Arbetslöshetskassa. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 9.1.
back to topA Swedish limited company.
back to topShareholder’s agreement, through which two or more shareholders can agree on terms with regards to how they are to manage their shares in the company and cooperate to mutual benefit. In many smaller limited companies all shareholders have also signed an aktieägaravtal.
back to topA shareholder contribution, through which one or more shareholders transfers assets to the company to improve its finances. A distinction is made between a villkorat aktieägartillskott (conditional contribution), which comes with repayment terms, and an ovillkorat akteägartillskott (unconditional contribution), which is not repaid.
back to topAccident and emergency department at a hospital.
back to topThe Press Ombudsman, shortened PO. A committee which evaluates complaints made against Swedish newspapers. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topThe National Inheritance Fund, a government controlled foundation which supports non-profit organizations and other voluntary associations to help improve the lives of children. If a person dies without legal heirs, and their estate falls under the Swedish laws of inheritance, all the deceased’s assets are transferred to the National Inheritance Fund.
back to topNational public pension. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.1.
back to topThe National Board for Consumer Disputes, shortened ARN. A Swedish governmental authority which arbitrates in disputes between consumers and businesses. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topSpecial benefit which limits the number of karensdagar (unpaid sick days) an employee must bear under a given year. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.2.1.
back to topAcquisition cost. The total cost of acquiring company shares or other assets, including unconditional shareholder contributions. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 7.
back to topThe concept of “piercing the corporate veil”, when a shareholder may be held liable for the actions of their company. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 2.2.
back to topDanish job market contribution tax. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 5.2.
back to topThe Labor Court, the second tier of the labor court system.
back to topThe public employment agency.
back to topEmployer’s contribution. A type of socialavgift (social fee) which is calculated based on the gross salaries of employees and paid by their employer. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 2.1.
back to topThe Work Environment Authority. It is the administrative authority for issues relating to the working environment. Its principle aim is to protect the right to a healthy and safe working environment. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 11.
back to topThe basic criteria an unemployed person must fulfil to be eligible for Swedish unemployment benefits. Generally deemed to be fulfilled if the applicant has spent at least six months working for a Swedish employer. For more information see Chapter 8, Section 9.1.
back to topA document issued by Skatteverket that determines the tax table of an individual who is an employee only (who does not have a business on the side). The letter “ A” stands for “anställd” which means “employee”.
back to topAuditor authorized by
Revisorsnämnden (the supervisory board of public accountants).
back to topThe Swedish word for a subdivision. In larger Swedish legislative documents, the word is used for numbered subdivisions, but the word is seldom used in legal references since the chapter numbers form a more coherent system of reference.
back to topA fee.
back to topThe process through which Skatteverket collects membership dues on the behalf of certain religious denominations.
back to topTreaty of intent. A type of Social Security Agreement (SSA) which is only applicable to situations where the assignment of a posted employee is not intended to exceed the maximum insurance period stated in the agreement. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 2.3.
back to topA company balance sheet.
back to topLegal code. A somewhat archaic term which is sometimes used in the name of major Swedish legal codes to indicate their importance. Since some of these codes have been overshadowed by later legislation the word balk is no longer a guarantee for a law’s present importance.
back to topBank certificate, showing the amount that has been deposited.
back to topSweden’s leading network of ATMs (automatic teller machine) and CDMs (cash deposit machine) in Sweden and is jointly owned by the five largest banks in Sweden (DanskeBank, Handelsbanken, Nordea, SEB and Swedbank (including Sparbankerna). Due to the networks strong market position, the company name Bankomat is used by many Swedes as a generic word for any cash machine. Bankomat does not charge transaction fees unless instructed to do so by one of the banks involved in the transaction.
back to topThe Children’s and Pupil’s Ombudsman, shortened BEO. A Swedish governmental authority which represents the rights of schoolchildren. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topThe Children’s Ombudsman, shortened BO. A Swedish governmental authority which represents the rights of children living in Sweden. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topAn association of private organizations and public authorities who develop BAS products such as the “BAS accounting plan”. The operations of the organization are carried out by its subsidiary, BAS-kontogruppen I Stockholm AB. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 9.
back to topThe assigned authority of an agent, employee or manager. Its extent depends on the instructions given by the possessor’s principal. For more information see Chapter 6, Section 1.2.1.
back to topCompetence, the actual legal powers invested in an agent, employee or manager, which are generally more extensive than their befogenhet (assigned authority). For more information see Chapter 6, Section 1.2.1.
back to topInspection clause in a contract to buy a property. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3.1.
back to topA property surveyor.
back to topRecord of defaulted debt. For more information see Chapter 11, Section 4.
back to topInjunction to pay. Can be issued by a court of law or, during certain circumstances, by Kronofogden (the Enforcement and Collection Agency). For more information see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.1.
back to topAn alternative form of work permit available to highly skilled professionals from outside the EEA. The Blue Card is an initiative of the EU. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 2.2.3.
back to topA company’s articles of association.
back to topAn shareholders’ general meeting.
back to topThe Swedish Companies Registration Office.
back to topA creditor.
back to topCrimes against creditors, often in the form of bankruptcy fraud.
back to topAccommodation waiting list in a municipality or with a private real estate company. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.2.
back to topLiterally a right to inhabit a specific apartment, which can be bought and sold on the open market. Does not give the buyer any direct ownership in any part of the actual building, but is in most cases treated like a condominium. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3.2.
back to topA cooperative housing association, where private individuals can acquire apartments (bostadsrätter) by buying shares in the association which owns the building. When a Swede is taking about buying an apartment they are in most cases taking about buying a bostadsrätt. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3.2.
back to topInventory of a deceased person’s assets and debts. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 10.7.1.
back to topLiterally “good financial situation”, often used in advertising for apartments to indicate the financial status of the housing association. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3.2.
back to topLegal principle according to which the rent for an apartment cannot exceed the worth of its actual standard. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.2.
back to topLiterally “day-mother”. A private individual who takes care of a group of 1-5 year olds professionally.
back to topCertificate showing that a posted employee remains covered by the social security system of their home country. In Sweden this type of document is issued by Försäkringskassan. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 2.3.2.
back to topA certificate issued by a governmental authority, which shows that a company or individual is duly registered within their jurisdiction. The Swedish authorities generally also expect such a certificate to certify the recipient’s tax compliance. Swedish certificates of this type are issued in English by Bolagsverket. The Swedish term for this type of document is intyg om god ekonomisk ställning.
back to topAbbreviation for “Corporate Income Tax”.
back to topAbbreviation for “Controlled Foreign Corporation”. This is an international legal term for companies which fall under a country’s so-called CFC-rules, which are designed to limit artificial deferral of tax by imposing corporate income tax on dividends from low-taxed offshore entities. For more information about the Swedish CFC rules, see Chapter 10, Section 1.4.
back to topThe governmental Data Inspection Board which regulates the private collection of sensitive information. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.
back to topService of process, the process through which an individual or legal entity is informed that someone has filed a legal claim against them. Generally sent by post, but if necessary given out by government employed service agents.
back to topDivision of a company, also known as fission.
back to topThe discrimination ombudsman, shortened DO. A Swedish governmental authority which works against discrimination. For more information, see chapter 1, Section 2.2.1 and Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topCourt verdict.
back to topThe civil and criminal courts.
back to topA subsidiary company.
back to topThe entity holding the estate of a deceased person.
back to topPersonal contributions. A type of socialavgift (social fee) for the self-employed, paid by sole traders and the individual partners of a partnership. For more information, see Chapter 7, Section 1.1.
back to topOwner payout from a sole proprietorship or partnership. For more information, see Chapter 7, Section 1.1.
back to topThe Swedish Economic Crime Authority, responsible for the prosecution of individuals and companies suspected of financial crimes.
back to topA type of association or cooperative enterprise that in some way caters to the economic interests of its members. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.2.
back to topThe financial right to, for example, a piece of intellectual property. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 6.2.1.
back to topThe financial right to, for example, a piece of intellectual property. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 6.2.1.
back to topOne-time amount paid out to a private individual. For more information about how such incomes are taxed, see Chapter 10, Section 2.2.2.
back to topA type of highly simplified partnership. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.5.
back to topPrivate firm or sole proprietor/trader. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.1.
back to topA private company which has been hired to collect Swedish congestion charges from foreign vehicles which pass through the Swedish cities of Stockholm and Göteborg that are not preregistered to be billed for the fee. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.3.
back to top"European company", a type of limited company which all the EU member states have in common. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.6.
back to topA type of cooperative company which all the EU member states have in common. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.2.
back to topThe official information agency of the EU Commission.
back to topEU directive, a legislative act of the European Union which is to be implemented through the national legislation of the member states.
back to topEU regulation, a legislative act of the European Union (EU) which is to be directly applicable in all its member states from the day on which it takes effect. An EU regulation has the effect of being an immediate law.
back to topA convention meant to guarantee the human rights within Europe, drafted by the Council of Europe and signed in Rome in 1950. The rights set out in the Convention are enforced by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.
back to topStarted in 1994, it was an area which united the 12 existing members of the European Community (EC) with the six European Free Trade Area (EFTA) states. Its purpose was to extend the application of the EU Internal Market to the 3 remaining EFTA states who had not joined the EU(namely Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway). It now consists of the existing 28 EU member states and Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Switzerland failed to ratify it and therefore retains “observer status”.
back to topAn international organization created by the Treaty of Rome of 1957 but renamed the European Community (EC) upon the entry into force of the Maastricht Treaty in 1993. This treaty also founded the EU and the treaty became one of its three pillars. The EC existed in this form until it was abolished by the Treaty of Lisbon in 2009, which merged the EU’s former pillars, effectively replacing the EC with the EU.
back to topA standardized system of third-party traffic insurance, which all owners of registered motor vehicles within the European Union are required to comply with. The insurance policies are, as a rule, generally sold by private companies, which upon request can issue the green insurance card needed to prove compliance. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.2.
back to topAn EU agency which process complaints against EU authorities. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topApolitical and economic union based on policies of free movement (of people, goods, services and capital). To do this, it enacts legislation, maintains common policies (particularly regarding trade, agriculture, fisheries, etc.) and has introduced a single currency to much of Europe. The EU currently comprises (eff. 2016): Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rumania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. EU-Swiss relations are based on a number of bi-lateral agreements.
back to topLabor union. The labor unions in Sweden act as the link between the employees and the employers, and are there primarily to defend employees against employers. The Swedish labor unions have a strong influence on the labor relationships as well as in the political and legislative fields. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 2.2.
back to topFamily counseling.
back to topCommonly used abbreviation for Föreningen Auktoriserade Revisorer (the Association of Authorized Auditors), which functions as a regulatory body for Sweden’s auditors (in accounting and finance).
back to topA piece of real estate.
back to topAnnual real estate fee, which is paid by the registered owner of the property. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3.3.
back to topThe Swedish Real Estate Agents Inspectorate.
back to topReal Estate Registry (Land Registry), the official record of ownership and details for all real estate titles submitted to Lantmäteriet (e.g. title ownership, title transfer and mortgage holder details). For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 2.3
back to top“Confirmation certificate”, a special certificate printed on the annual financial statements, with a certification by the directors and CEO that the income statement and balance sheet have been approved at the annual general meeting. It should include information regarding the annual general meetings decision regarding how the company is to handle the year’s financial result. For more information, see Chapter 5, Section 9.2.
back to topFA-tax Certificate, a document issued by Skatteverket that shows that an individual is both an employee and self-employed. The letters “FA” are the combination of företag (company), and anställd (employee).
back to topThis is a break when colleagues meet for a cup of coffee or tea in the morning and/or the afternoon.
back to topA branch of a foreign registered company.
back to topThe Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority, which regulates financial institutions including banking, securities and insurance.
back to topThe Financial Intelligence Unit of the police, responsible for money laundering investigations etc.
back to topIndividual with a registered right to sign on the behalf of a specific legal entity. Such signatories are generally members of the company’s board of directors.
back to topDuty-free relocation of personal possessions when moving to Sweden from a country outside EU. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 1.2.
back to topThe population register, administrated by
Skatteverket.
back to top"The home of the people", a central social democratic ideal based around the idea that the Swedish people should be like one big family which takes care of each other through public welfare.
back to topSchool which offers complementary courses on a secondary level and certain types of vocational training.
back to topThe public dentist practice, Sweden’s largest provider of dental healthcare.
back to topThe Taxation of Research Workers Board, a governmental authority under the Ministry of Finance which makes decisions on each individual case for tax incentives for foreign experts, researchers and other key people working temporarily in Sweden. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 6.1.
back to topPreliminary tax certificate from the Danish tax authority. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 5.2.
back to topThe obligation for Swedish labor unions, employers and employers’ associations to abstain from strikes and other types of industrial action as long as there is a valid kollektivavtal (collective agreement) followed by all parties. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 1.2.
back to topPreventive healthcare. Can be provided by a Swedish employer as a tax-free employment benefit (e.g. a gym membership). For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 3.4.
back to topVoluntary liquidation of a company. For more information, see Chapter 13.
back to topCertificate which proves that an organization is responsible for paying its own taxes to Skatteverket. The letter “F” stands for "företag" which means company. Also known as an F-tax certificate. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 1.1.
back to topPower of attorney or grant of authority, generally a document empowering an individual or legal entity to act on the behalf of someone else. During certain circumstances a power of attorney can be said to be implied, for example in an employment situation. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topThe principal of another party, either through contract or a signed power of attorney. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topAgent, an individual or legal entity empowered to act on the behalf of someone else. An agent is empowered through a fullmakt (power of attorney). For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topA company merger.
back to topNatural person, the legal term for a human being.
back to topA limited company which is controlled by a close circle of partners. The term is generally translated as "Close company" (alternatively “Close Company”) and is a designation issued by Skatteverket. Such an entity must follow a special set of rules to ensure that the owners do not take unfair advantage of their position in terms a balance between salary and dividends. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 6 and Chapter 10, Section 7.
back to topA partnership which is controlled by a close circle of partners. Such partnerships are subjected to certain parts of the close company rules. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 6.
back to topCompensation for lost income due to caring for a sick child.
back to topAn umbrella term for prop. (law proposals) and SOUs (the Governments Official Reports). These do not bind the courts, and are more of a soft law suggestion, that is nonetheless often looked to for guidance. Literally means “a work of preparation” (as in, a work of non-fiction) and can include all the different stages of legislation. They are quite important in the Swedish legal system, but have become less so with the coming of the EU.
back to topA private association or club.
back to topMortgage loan taken out with a company as collateral. For more information, see Chapter 11, section 3.2.2.
back to topCompany mortgage deed. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 3.2.2.
back to topReconstruction of a failing company following negotiations with its creditors. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.5.
back to topOne-year pre-school/kindergarten for six year olds.
back to topThe Social Insurance Office, which co-ordinates the payment of social benefits and allowances such as sick pay and parental leave compensation. It is also responsible for issuing the Swedish A1 certificates.
back to topA Swedish legal principle which states that a contract is to be interpreted according to the expectations the parties had when the deal was struck. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topDirectors’ report.
back to topThe first tier of the administrative court system.
back to topThe first tier of the administrative court system.
back to topLiterally “guaranteed benefit” in context with sickness benefits. Minimum level sick pay, provided for people with low or nonexistent income. For more information, see Chapter 7, Section 1.2 and Chapter 8, Section 8.2.
back to topLiterally “guaranteed retirement” in context with state social pension. Minimum pension provided to elderly individuals who have worked in Sweden but lack a sufficient pension. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.1.
back to topCommon abbreviation for the General Data Protection Regulation, which is legislation meant to provide the European Union with a more comprehensive protection for personal data. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.5.
back to topGood reporting practices, a Swedish legal term for such standard practices which are recognized by Swedish and international associations of auditors and accountants, often referred to as GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) in the US and UK. The main source of god redovisningssed is REKO, which is a common reporting standard issued by the Swedish trade associations FAR and SRF. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 9.
back to topAn approved (licensed) auditor.
back to topBasic tax deduction made automatically from the income tax of private individuals, to a greater or lesser extent depending on age, income and residential status.
back to topThe four fundamental or basic laws that form part of the Swedish constitution.
back to topCompulsory primary school for children aged 7 to 16, also known as
allmän skola (public school).
back to topBlock exemption from certain aspects of the competition laws of Sweden and EU. Each such exemption covers a specific industry. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.2.
back to topThe cross border rule, regarding the personal income tax of an individual who lives in one Nordic country and works in another Nordic country. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 5.2.1.
back to topSenior high school for children aged 16 to 19.
back to topA debtor.
back to topCommon abbreviation of
Högsta Domstolen, the Swedish supreme court.
back to topIce-driving/slippery surface driving test.
back to topGeneral partnership. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.3.
back to topGeneral power of attorney issued by a company or self-employed person. Also known as a
prokura. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topJudicial assistance with enforcing a legal claim, generally based on a court verdict. Exclusively provided by Kronofogden (the Enforcement and Collection Authority). For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.3.
back to topHomeowner’s insurance.
back to topSince 2015 an official non-gender specific pronoun of the Swedish language.
back to topAn elevator.
back to topThe second tier of the civil and criminal court system.
back to topFamily doctor.
back to topFamily doctor’s surgery.
back to topThe principal of another party, either through contract or a signed power of attorney. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topSwedish Union of Tenants.
back to topThe Rent Tribunal, which tries certain types of legal conflicts between a tenant and their landlord.
back to topAn agreement though which an employer and a labor union agree to apply a preexisting kollektivavtal to relationship between the employer and their employees. The word itself translates as “hanging agreement”, since it hangs on the terms already agreed to between the labor union and an employer association(s).
back to topA set of legal limits for how much a private individual can be made to pay each year for medical treatment and certain related services.
back to topCollege which offers courses and performs research within a limited number of scientific fields.
back to topThe Supreme Court of Sweden, and thus, the third and last tier of the civil and criminal court system. Its name is often shortened HD.
back to topThe Supreme Administrative Court of Sweden, the last tier of the administrative court system (previously named Regeringsrätten).
back to topInternational Financial Reporting Standards, an international standard for accounting and financial reporting issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
back to topIdeological right, the right to decide for what purposes a piece of intellectual property can be used. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 6.2.1.
back to topA collection agency.
back to topDebt collection. Often shortened to Inkasso. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.2.
back to topThe income base amount. This is a reference sum determined by Skatteverket each year to calculate thresholds, ceilings and other limits applicable to pension benefits. It is meant to reflect the changes in the average Swedish salary. The income base amount for 2016 is SEK 59,300.
back to topIncome based pension, a part of the Swedish pension system. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.1.
back to topTemporary decision made by a court of law or governmental authority. Such a decision only stands until the actual verdict has been finalized.
back to topAn EU regulatory system managed by Eurostat for compiling data regarding the trade of goods between the EU member states, to which all businesses with a large involvement in such trade have a legal obligation to report. In Sweden these reports are sent in to Statistiska centralbyrån. For more information, see Chapter 5, Section 9.5.
back to topA monthly report showing what goods a company has imported or exported during the last month with member states of the EU (services are excluded). For more information, see Chapter 5, Section 9.5.
back to topThe year during which a taxable income was earned.
back to topCertificate of Good Standing, a document issued by a governmental authority which certifies that the company for which the certificate is issued is not subject to any tax litigation nor is in a situation of bankruptcy. There are several different types of certificates of good standing, each with their own more or less specific use. In Sweden certificates of this type are issued by both Bolagsverket and Kronofogden. Many countries and jurisdictions (including some states within the US) do not have a Certificate of Good Standing that meets the same requirements as the Swedish certificate.
back to topOne of Sweden’s largest retirement funds (only available to an employee when the employer has a collective agreement in place). For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.2.
back to topAn idea of ten rules governing the Scandinavian societies, created by author Aksel Sandemose in his book “En flyktning krysser silt spor” (A fugitive crosses his tracks) (1933) Tilden, Oslo. The basic premise is that “you are not to think you are anyone special or that you are better than us”. Often used as a metaphor for the unwritten rules of Swedish society. For more information, see Chapter 1, Section 2.2.3.
back to topGovernmental program meant to help the long-term unemployed. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 9.4.
back to topThe Swedish Board of Agriculture.
back to topLegal person, for example a company or other legal entity.
back to topA Swedish lawyer; someone with some sort of law degree who advises clients on legal matters.
back to topThe Swedish Union of University Graduates of Law, Business Administration and Economics, Computer and Systems Science, Personnel Management and Social Science.
back to topThe chancellor of Justice, shortened JK. A Swedish governmental authority which, among other things, processes complaints against Swedish governmental authorities. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.2.
back to topThe Parliamentary Ombudsmen, shortened JO. A Swedish governmental authority which, among other things, processes complaints against Swedish governmental authorities. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3
back to topJudges of the
Högsta Domstolen. Supreme Court judges.
back to topAn equality bonus earned by parents who split their parental leave equally. Has as of 2017 been discontinued. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.4.1.
back to topThe second tier of the administrative court system.
back to topDay of unpaid sick leave. Employees must generally take one day of unpaid sick leave before they have a right to receive sick pay from their employer. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.2.
back to topCash flow / funds flow statement.
back to topCollective agreement, a written agreement between an employers' association or employer and a trade union on employees' terms and conditions of employment or on other aspects of employer/employee relations, pursuant to the Co-determination in the Workplace Act of 1976. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 1.
back to topLimited partnership. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.4.
back to topA limited partner in a
Kommanditbolag (limited partnership).
back to top The National Board of Trade.
back to topA situation where an independent commercial agent buys or sells goods on the behalf of someone else. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topA commercial factor. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topA person or company who has hired a kommissionär (commercial agent). For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topLocal municipality.
back to topAn unlimited partner in a limited partnership. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.4.
back to topCorporate group consisting of a parent company and its subsidiaries.
back to topConsolidated financial statements of a corporate group.
back to topA physical action or inaction which by itself creates an unwritten legal action. For an example, see Chapter 8, Section 6.
back to topAn administrative penalty from the Competition Authority.
back to topThe Competition Authority. Upholds the antitrust laws.
back to topThe bankruptcy of an individual or company.
back to topCertificate of solvency, which is issued by a governmental authority to certify that a given individual or company is not currently in a state of bankruptcy. In Sweden this information is public and the certificates can be ordered from Bolagsverket for a small fee.
back to topAn estate of bankruptcy, is regarded as a separate legal entity.
back to topThe Consumer Ombudsman, shortened KO. A governmental authority which represent the interests of the consumers. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topConsumer price index.
back to topThe Swedish governmental Consumer Agency, which upholds consumer rights.
back to topLiterally “the cash principle”. A Swedish legal principle stating that an income or benefit is to be taxed when the recipient is able to cash it out or in any other way benefit from it. For more information about the taxation of benefits, see Chapter 10, Section 4.
back to topControl Information, often shortened KU. A term used by the Swedish tax authority for annual personal income statements reported by using one of the tax authority’s KU forms.
back to topThe Enforcement and Collection Authority, is a governmental authority responsible for collecting debts, maintaining credit history and supervising bankruptcy. Every individual or organization having an unpaid liability with Kronofogden is recorded, and since the information maintained by Kronofogden is public, all such entries tend have a significant impact on personal and organization credit ratings. For more information, see Chapter 11, Sections 4.1 and 5.3.
back to topSwedish tax authority form used by employers to declare the yearly income of an employee.
back to topSwedish tax authority form used by an employer to declare the salary and other income of an employee who has been given the right to be taxed as a non-resident (SINK-taxation).
back to topSwedish tax authority form used to declare dividends that have been paid out to individuals who own shares in a Swedish legal entity. The form is filed by the entity paying the dividend.
back to topQualified share. A share in a company controlled by a close circle of owners, in Sweden known as a fåmansbolag. The sale of such shares are subjected to special tax rules. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 6 and Chapter 10, Section 7.
back to topSequestration of property.
back to topSwedes usually have an outdoor Crayfish Party during the month of August. This tradition comes from the fact that crayfish fishing was once limited to a couple of months in the autumn (starting in August), thus making the crayfish a delicacy tied to that time of the year.
back to topA bill of sale in relation to property purchases.
back to topPurchase contract in relation to property purchases.
back to topDriver’s license.
back to topLearner’s permit, for an individual who wishes to train for a Swedish driver’s license.
back to topAn abbreviation commonly used for Lag om anställningsskydd (SFS 1982:80), the Swedish Employment Protection Act. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 1.1.
back to topThe Swedish word for a legal act (literal translation: law).
back to topThe concept of a registered title for real estate/property in Sweden, issued by the Swedish Real Estate Authority.
back to topThe minimum right of inheritance shared by the children of a deceased person. Consists of 50% of the estates assets. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 10.7.2 and 10.6.3.
back to topA Swedish concept meaning “just right” or “with moderation”.
back to topThe Mapping, Cadastral and Land Registration Authority, which registers the titles of real estate, handles land surveying, produces official maps and makes decisions about real estate plot boundaries and related matters.
back to topPrivate organization website which allows the public to search for specific individuals or companies in the Swedish court records.
back to topLatin for “higher law”, a legal principle which states that a piece of legislation can be superseded by legislation introduced by a higher authority. Swedish laws can, for example, be nullified by EU förordningar. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 1.1.
back to topLiquidator, handles the liquidation of a specific company.
back to topMild duress, a concept within Swedish contract law. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topAn EU treaty regarding the international recognition of university degrees and similar qualifications. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 9.7.
back to topThe National Food Agency.
back to topThe largest national cooperation organization for Swedish labor unions. Specializes in bluecollar professions. Short for Landsorganisationen (the “National Organization”, known in English as the Swedish Trade Union Confederation).
back to topA celebration procession that is headed by one girl wearing a crown of candles (or lights), while others in the procession generally hold a single candle each. Lucia is celebrated on 13 December each year, and is traditionally seen as closely related to Christmas.
back to topPromissory note issued by a lender in relation to a mortgage.
back to topApartment register. Kept by all cooperative housing associations and includes records of rights and mortgages connected with the association’s apartments.
back to topCounty Administrative Board of Stockholm.
back to topCounty Administrative Board.
back to topSalary based space. A figure calculated on the total salaries of a company, which is used when calculating the taxation of individual shareholders in a fåmansbolag. The exact formula used has been known to vary from one year to another. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 7.
back to topThe first tier of the land and environment court system.
back to topThe second tier of the land and environment court system.
back to topThe court that deals with marketing ethics, market infringement and antitrust/competition issues.
back to topIs an abbreviation of Lag om Medbestämmande i Arbetslivet (SFS 1976:580), the Swedish Co-Determination in the Workplace Act. Regulates the relationship between the labor unions and the employers. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 1.2. Note that the hyphenation in codetermination is how the translation to English is applied by the Swedish government.
back to topCo-helpers (i.e. spouse and/or children) in a sole proprietorship.
back to topLegal mediation, generally aided by a judge or a professional mediator. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.1.
back to topMiddle name. By Swedish law only the surnames of close relatives can be taken as a middle name, such as for example a mother’s maiden name. Most of the names Swedes casually refer to as Mellannamn are, from a legal perspective, secondary first names (personal names which are not normally used when addressing the bearer). For more information about names, see Chapter 3, Section 9.10.
back to topThe midsummer celebration is an ancestral Scandinavian celebration that takes place around the summer solstice (usually the third Friday of June). This celebration marks the beginning of the summer in Sweden.
back to topThe Migration Court, the first court that processes immigration and refugee matters.
back to topThe second tier court of the immigration and refugee system. It is part of Kammarrätten (the administrative court of appeal) of Stockholm.
back to topThe Swedish Immigration Authority.
back to topThe environment.
back to topParent company.
back to topThe Swedish name for Value Added Tax (VAT). Short for
mervärdesskatt.
back to topLegal case.
back to topAuthority regulations. A legal document enacted by a Swedish governmental authority, based on the authority delegated to them by the Riksdagen and Regeringen. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 1.1.
back to topA pattern. Can be registered as intellectual property. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 6.3.
back to topA national authority charged with the evaluation of foreign degrees by the European Union, often shortened NARIC. In Sweden this role is fulfilled by Universitets- och högskolerådet. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 9.7.
back to topNotes, for example to an annual report.
back to topLay judges. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 1.5.
back to topLocal emergency center.
back to topAn individual ban on preforming business activities assigned by a court of law.
back to topCompany or self-employed person.
back to topBusiness activities.
back to topUsury, a contractual situation where the considerations of one party is obviously and unacceptably disproportionate. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topThe Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development which promotes policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world.
back to topA public advocate. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.3.
back to topUnreasonable, a defense within the field of contract law which can cause contracts to become void. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topMortgage deed.
back to topThe Swedish word for section, commonly used to indicate parts of a law or a legal contract. Often indicated by the symbol “§”.
back to topParking disc, used to indicate at what time a vehicle was parked to allow its owner to take advantage of time-restricted free parking. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.1.1.
back to topA passport.
back to topSwedish Patent and Registration Office.
back to topThe Patent Settlement Court which deals with patents and other intellectual property issues.
back to topThe Swedish Pension Agency.
back to topAn individual or legal entity which determine the purpose and means for the processing of a given piece of personal data, and who for this reason is to carry the main responsibility for upholding the applicable personal data protection legislation. The Swedish term for this position is Personuppgiftsansvvarig. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.
back to topAn extract from an individual’s file in the Swedish census records. There are a large number of different types of Personbevis, each with its own specified use. These types of documents can be ordered by the individual from Skatteverket.
back to topPolitically exposed person, often shortened PEP. Typically, a high ranking politician or civil servant, but it can also be an executive of a multinational company or non-profit organization. For more information, see Chapter 5, Section 7.3.
back to topA personal identification number issued by Skatteverket and used in many facets of life in Sweden, particularly tax. Also known as a Swedish social security number.
back to topPersonal data controller, the individual or legal entity responsible for a specific set of personal data. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.
back to topPersonal data deputy, an individual processing a specific set of personal data on the behalf of a Personuppgiftsansvvarig (personal data controller). For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.2.
back to topPersonal Data Protection Officer, an individual taking a limited responsibility for a specific set of personal data on the behalf of a Personuppgiftsansvvarig (personal data controller). For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.2.
back to topA Swedish website that lists all jobs that are available through the governmental employment agency.
back to topEnglish communications without the use of complex or technical terms. A legal definition and standard for English language use in Sweden.
back to topThe official newspaper of Sweden, founded in 1645 and is at present almost exclusively used for official proclamations. Any document or message which has been published in this newspaper it is from a legal perspective considered to be public knowledge.
back to topThe Post- and Telecom authority.
back to topPremium pension, the part of the public pension which is invested in different types of investments funds. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.1.
back to topAn act or event which resets the time limit set by the Swedish statutes of limitation. Especially common with regards to debts. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.7.
back to topPeriod of limitation for a specific crime or debt, set by the relevant Statutes of limitation.
back to topThe price-indexed base amount. This sum is a reference determined by Skatteverket every year to calculate thresholds, ceilings and other limits. This rate reflects the inflation and is also used by insurance companies. The price-indexed base amount for 2016 is SEK 44,300.
back to topA governance process regulated by EU law under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and resulting from a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for how to legally transfer personal data from the EU to the USA. Privacy Shield is a replacement for Safe Harbor. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.6.
back to topPrivate limited company, a type of company in which shares cannot be traded on the open market.
back to topPrivate school, autonomous, privately funded and not as tightly regulated by the Swedish government.
back to topGeneral agent for a registered party such as a sole proprietor or partnership.
back to topThe government’s final draft of a proposed law, with commentary. Written “prop. year/next year:XX”, for instance: “prop. 1988/89:94”.
back to topProbationary employment, can last for up to six months.
back to topPublic limited company, a type of company in which shares can be traded on the open market.
back to topCommonly used abbreviation for Personuppgiftslag (SFS 1998:204), the Swedish Personnel Data Protection Act. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 12.
back to topTown house, a type of private house where the outer walls of several houses are connected to each other.
back to topThe Swedish national cabinet and highest executive authority in national government.
back to topThe previous name of the
Högsta Förvaltningsdomstolen. The name was changed in 2011.
back to topData subject. Natural person whose personal data has been collected.
back to topA registration certificate, which shows that a company is registered in the applicable jurisdiction. In Sweden certificates of this type are issued by Bolagsverket and contain additional information such as the names of the company’s officers.
back to topAlso known as Svensk standard för redovisningstjänster (the Swedish Standard for Accounting Services). Sweden’s main standard for accounting and financial reporting, issued by the trade organizations FAR and SRF and the main source for god redovisningssed.
back to topThe right of a company or tradesman to keep goods they have performed work on until such time as the owner of the goods pay their bills. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 3.1.1.
back to topAuditor’s report.
back to topThe Supervisory Board of Public Accountants.
back to topThe Swedish national parliament.
back to topA type of income tax deduction of up to 50% of the cost of construction work and renovations performed by a professional contractor in a private home. ROT is an acronym of the Swedish words Renovering, Ombyggnad and Tillbyggnad, which translates as renovation, refurbishment and the building of house extensions. These are the three main types of services for which ROT can be made. For more information see Chapter 2, Section 3.
back to topInterest difference compensation, a fee which credit institutes are allowed to take out if one of their customers wishes to pay back a fixed interest loan prematurely. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 1.1.4.
back to topRed day, a Swedish public holiday. The word comes from the fact that such dates by tradition are written in red in Swedish almanacs.
back to topA national cooperation organization for Swedish labor unions. Specializes in university educated professionals.
back to topTax certificate issued to partners in Swedish registered partnerships, to employees of non-permanently established companies and certain other categories of taxpayers. Allow the recipient to be taxed as either a self-employed individual or as an employee, depending on the source of their income. Is an alternative to either an F-skatt sedel or A-skatt sedel.
back to topThe Swedish term for non-married partners who share a home, by reference to the Cohabitee Act or
Sambolagen. Short for
Samboende (cohabitee).
back to topCoordinating person number, for persons temporarily resident in Sweden.
back to topFixed amount, generally set by
Skatteverket. Can for example signify the basic deduction allowed for a certain type of expense. For examples, see Appendix III.
back to topA treaty signed on 14 June 1985 by five of the then ten member states of the EEC abolishing border checks to enable the free movement of persons and harmonization of visa policies. It was supplemented in 1990 by the Schengen Convention. The EU Amsterdam Treaty signed in 1997 incorporated the Schengen treaties and rules into EU law. The Schengen area now consists of 26 states: all of the EU member states (except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom) plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
back to topSwedish kronor (plural, the singular is krona), the currency of Sweden. Otherwise known as crowns.
back to topVacation salary accruing absence. Leave periods during which an employee still accrues paid vacation. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.3.3.
back to topVacation year, a year during which an employee take out vacation. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.3.
back to topEasement. A real estate related right which allows the owner of one real estate access to another, for example by allowing them to drive over it or fetch water from a well. When a servitut has been granted it is written into fastighetsregistret, and remains in effect until it is removed through a legal process administrated by Lantmäteriet.
back to topAbbreviation for Svensk författningssammling, a governmental publication which serves as the official source for all legislation adopted by the Riksdagen and Regeringen. Written “SFS [Year]:[chronological order]”. For instance: “SFS 2016:5” for the 5th legal act adopted during 2016. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 1.1.
back to topAn alternative form of income taxation for non-permanent residents with income from Sweden. SINK is an abbreviation of Särskild inkomstskatt för utomlands bosatta (Special Income Tax for Foreign Residents). For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 6.2.
back to topHospital.
back to topIncome base for sickness allowance is an amount calculated individually in order to determine the individual’s rights to certain social benefits, calculated as follows: yearly gross income multiplied by 0.97. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.4.1.
back to topThe healthcare advice line. Available through the telephone number 1177 and website: www.1177.se
back to topTax account held by the tax authorities in the name of a specific taxpayer.
back to topTax tables, issued by
Skatteverket to show how much income tax is to be paid at different levels of income.
back to topThe Swedish Tax Authority which is in charge of the tax collection as well as the population registration of Sweden.
back to topThe decision of a private arbitrator. For more information, see Chapter 12, Section 2.2.2.
back to topThe Swedish Inspectorate of Education.
back to topSchool voucher, an annual sum put aside by a child’s home municipality to finance that child’s education. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 9.
back to topPromissory note. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 1.2.
back to topSolvency certificate, a government issued document showing that a specific Swedish registered person or company does not have any Swedish debts in bad standing. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 4.1.
back to topDebt clearance, a process through which an individual can be freed of their personal debts. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.6.
back to topA job title regulated by Swedish law in the interest of safeguarding public trust. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 9.7.1.
back to topA type of short term loan often with high interest, which is generally applied for by sending a text message using a mobile phone. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 1.3.
back to topOtherwise known as snuff, a type of tobacco. It comes in little bags or as a moist powder, and is placed under the top lip for the absorption of nicotine.
back to topSocial fees. A set of taxes and fees which finances the Swedish system of social insurance and public pension on a national level. There exist two types of socialavgifter: arbetsgivaravgift (Employers contribution) and egenavgifter (personal contributions). For more information, see Chapter 7, Section 1.1. and Chapter 10, Section 2.1.
back to topAgreement on the social cost made between a foreign employer and an employee whereby the employee will be responsible for paying the social cost in Sweden. For more information, see Chapter 7, Section 2.3.2. and Chapter 10, Section 2.1.
back to topThe municipal Social Welfare Board.
back to topThe Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare.
back to topMunicipal Social Welfare Office.
back to topEuropean Company, a relatively new company form meant to simplify crossborder businesses within the European Union. For more information, see Chapter 6, Section 5.6.
back to topA network of governmental agencies throughout all of the EU member states. They offer free assistance in situations where national regulations clash with the right to free mobility within the EU. For more information, see Chapter 2, Section 1.1.
back to topAbbreviation for Statens offentliga utredningar (the Governments Official Reports), a type of governmental investigation which often results in one or more proposals for new legislation. The contents of a SOU is of great importance when interpreting the resulting legislation. Written “SOU year: XX, and then the title”, for instance: “SOU 1988:89, En Mer Human Invandrarpolitik”.
back to topSpecialist clinic.
back to topSpecialist healthcare.
back to topA week long school break in the early spring.
back to topCommonly used abbreviation for Sveriges Redovisningskonsulters Förbund (the Swedish Accounting Consultants Confederation), Sweden’s largest trade organization and regulatory body for accounting consultants.
back to topThe Swedish statistics agency, also known under the English name Statistics Sweden.
back to topAgency by position, a situation where, for example, a high ranking employee is able to legally represent their employer. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topThe process of replacing worn main pipes in a building, generally an apartment building. This type of renovation is costly, and can therefore effect the price and fee of the individual apartments in the building.
back to topStamp duty, a tax charged by Lantmäteriet on newly issued mortgage deeds. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 3.2.
back to topFounding shareholders/members of a limited company, or certain other types of legal entities.
back to topArticles of association of a limited company, in which the share capital will be added in the form of property.
back to topArticles of association of a limited company, in which the share capital will be added in the form of money.
back to topBoard of directors.
back to topDeputy board member.
back to topA type of contract fraud. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topThe Swedish Builders’ Workers Union.
back to topThe Swedish Electricians’ Union.
back to topSwedish for Immigrants, the free Swedish lessons provided by the Swedish government.
back to topThe Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, Sweden’s largest business confederation for employers.
back to topA professional service provider who to a certain extent can act on behalf of their client. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 3.4.
back to topGovernment owned company with monopoly on most of the Swedish alcohol retail market.
back to topLiterally "special company signatory". An individual with a registered right to sign contracts on behalf of the board of directors in a limited company.
back to topSpecial judicial assistance with enforcing a legal claim, based on a summary decision from
Kronofogden (the Enforcement and Collection Authority). For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.3.
back to topSpecial income tax for non-residents, otherwise known as the
SINK tax.
back to topSpecial high-risk protection. A special kind of benefit given mainly to the seriously ill and their employer. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.2.2.
back to topA dentist.
back to topDental care.
back to topTjänstemännens Centralorganisation (The Swedish Confederation of Professional Employees) is comprised from 14 Swedish affiliated trade unions, the members of which are white collar professional and qualified employees.
back to top A text based televised news and advertisement service available on all Swedish TVs.
back to topSupplementary Protection Certificate, extending the protection granted through a patent with up to 5 years. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 6.1.2.
back to topAdditional information, for example clarification notes or supplemental information included as part of an annual report.
back to topPermanent employment.
back to topThe first tier of the civil and criminal court system.
back to topAlternative pension solution available for highly paid professionals. Allows them to customize much of their retirement package. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.1.2.
back to topSwedish for “tradition”, but also the legal term for the physical transferal of possessions, for example when providing a creditor with collateral. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 3.1.
back to topTraffic insurance, a compulsory liability insurance all Swedish car owners must possess. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.2.
back to topSwedish Association of Motor Insurers. National organization representing all Swedish companies that sell various insurance products for motor vehicles. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.2.
back to topSwedish Transport Administration. Handles the planning and upkeep of the Swedish public transportation system and the driver tests necessary for getting a driver’s license.
back to topPer Diem, a type of allowance paid out by an employer to an employee to cover their increased living expenses during a business trip. The portion of a Per Diem which does not exceed a certain fixed sum is not subject to Swedish income and social tax. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 3.16 and Appendix III, Section 1.7.
back to topThe Swedish Transport Agency. Issues regulations regarding all means of transportation and handles, among other things, matters of vehicle registration.
back to topCongestion charges, a tax taken out on vehicle traffic in and out of Sweden’s two largest cities, Stockholm and Gothenburg. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 2.3.
back to topThird party.
back to topFaith and honor, a concept within Swedish contract law. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topThe Swedish Customs Authority.
back to topDuress, a concept within Swedish contract law. For more information, see Chapter 9, Section 1.3.
back to topCompulsory liquidation of a limited company. For more information, see Chapter 13, Section 2.2.
back to topLaundry room. Communal laundry rooms are very common in Swedish apartment buildings.
back to topLicense for Swedish state television, radio and text-TV services. It is to be paid by anyone in Sweden who has the equipment needed to access these programs. Until recently that included computers with Internet access. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 8.
back to topUniversity. The main difference between a university and a högskola (independent college) is that a university has a more general license to grant degrees. For more information, see Chapter 3, Section 9.6.
back to topThe Council for Higher Education, a governmental authority handling matters related to higher education.
back to topGovernmental seizure, meant to secure a claim against the seized property’s owner. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.2.
back to topSeizure proceeding, a process through which a civil servant investigates if there is any property which can be seized to secure a claim against its owner. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.2.
back to topSeized by the government, to secure a claim against the owner. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.2.
back to topThe Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
back to topA certificate of posting, also called a Certificate of Coverage (CoC). This type of document can be issued by a country’s social insurance office to show that a posted employee is covered by the social insurance of that country. For more information, see Chapter 4, Section 2.3.2.
back to topUnemployment benefit given mainly to young people who participate in certain government sponsored unemployment programs. For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 9.2.
back to topIs the contraction of vård av barn (care of child). A parent who is at home taking care of their child for which they are not paid but claim compensation from the Försäkringskassan. Can be used as a verb ("Vabba"). For more information, see Chapter 8, Section 8.4.2.
back to topVAT stands for “Value Added Tax” and is due on all goods and services purchased within each member state of the EU. The Swedish word for VAT is moms. Unless provided otherwise, the seller of the service claims the VAT to the purchaser, who in turn deducts the VAT. The balance of VAT due or refundable is calculated at a determined frequency. For more information, see Chapter 10, Section 1.2.
back to topLiterally “works”, a governmental agency.
back to topBeneficial owner, by the Swedish legal definition a natural person who directly or indirectly controls (or controlled) 25% or more of a business though ownership or similar set-ups. For more information, see Chapter 5, Section 7.3.
back to topWebsite hosted by the Swedish authorities, offering advice in both Swedish and English on how to run a company in Sweden. With an electronic identity card it is to a large extent possible to administrate a Swedish registered company online, provided that you are a registered board member or CEO.
back to topEquivalent of the Chief Executive Officer or CEO.
back to topEnforcement of verdict, a service offered by
Kronofogden (the Enforcement and Collection Authority).
back to topFixed-term employment.
back to topIs the contraction of vård av barn (care of child) and jobba (work), when used as a verb when a parent takes care of their child at the same time as they work part-time. In this situation they may receive compensation from both their employer and the Social Insurance Office for the same hours, something that the Swedish authorities strongly opposes and which might result in them demanding a refund from the employee.
back to topLocal health center.
back to topThe official guide to the Swedish healthcare system. Available through the telephone number 1177 and website: www.1177.se
back to topA child’s custodian.
back to topAnnual reports of a limited liability company.
back to topRepossessing goods from a customer due to their failure to pay. For more information, see Chapter 11, Section 5.3.5.
back to topA clause in a purchase contract allowing the seller to repossess the goods if the customer does not pay in accordance with the contract.
back to topAn apartment meant for private habitation which has been registered as a separate real estate. In other jurisdictions this type of housing is known as a condominium or “condo”. Ägarlägenheter is relatively rare in Sweden and bostadsrätter are regarded as a more traditional apartment solution.
back to topSocial welfare for the elderly.
back to topThe literal translation is “open pre-school”, but in practice it is more of a forum for parent supervised playdates.
back to topA geographical and economic region comprising Southern Sweden and Eastern Denmark.
back to topNon-profit organization or club.
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