From Foreign Licensure to Work in Sweden: A Guide for Doctors and Nurses

Do you dream of working as a doctor or nurse in Sweden but have your license from a country outside the EU/EEA? The process can seem complicated, but it is entirely feasible. Here is a step-by-step guide explaining what is required, from language skills to knowledge tests and practical training.

Step 1: Language Skills – Master Swedish at the Right Level

The first and most crucial step is to learn the Swedish language. To work in healthcare and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, you are required to have a high level of proficiency. The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) requires a minimum level of C1 in Swedish, according to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

How do I prove my language skills? The most common way is to take an official language test. The most recognized exams are:

• TISUS (Test in Swedish for University and Higher Education Studies).

• Swedex at level C1.

If you have studied Swedish at a university or have a high school diploma with a particular grade in Swedish, this may also be considered sufficient. Still, it's best to contact the National Board of Health and Welfare to confirm what applies in your specific case.

Step 2: Knowledge Tests – Prove Your Medical Skills

Even if your education is of high quality, you must pass a knowledge test to ensure that your medical skills meet the Swedish requirements. These tests are designed to assess your theoretical and practical knowledge in your professional field.

For Doctors:

You must pass a theoretical knowledge test administered by Umeå University. The test covers various medical subjects, including internal medicine, surgery, psychiatry, and general medicine.

• This is followed by a practical test that assesses your ability to act in real clinical situations.

For Nurses:

• Nurses take a knowledge test organized by the Karolinska Institute. The test assesses your knowledge in areas including nursing, medicine, and social sciences.

  
  

Step 3: Practical Service – Experience Swedish Healthcare

Once you have passed the knowledge test, the next step is a practical service, often referred to as a clinical placement or internship. The purpose of the internship is to give you an introduction to the Swedish healthcare system, learn to apply your knowledge in a Swedish context, and demonstrate that you can work independently and safely.

The internship is usually paid and typically lasts six months for both doctors and nurses. You will have a supervisor who supports you during the period, and after a successful internship, you will receive a certificate.

Step 4: Law and Safety – Understand the Swedish Regulations

Before you can apply for your license, you must also pass a test in Swedish regulatory knowledge. This test assesses your understanding of the laws and regulations governing healthcare in Sweden, including patient safety, confidentiality, and professional ethical guidelines.

Step 5: Application for Licensure

Once you have completed all the steps – language test, knowledge test, internship, and regulatory knowledge test – you are ready to submit your complete application for licensure to the National Board of Health and Welfare. Your application will be reviewed, and if everything is in order, you will receive your Swedish license.

The process may take time, but every step you take is a step closer to working with what you are passionate about in Sweden. Good luck with your journey!