CV Sweden: Guide and Template 2026
Swedish CV Conventions
The Swedish CV reflects the country values of equality, simplicity and professionalism. Photos are not included on Swedish CVs, as discrimination-free hiring is a strong cultural norm. CVs are typically one to two pages and should be clean, well-structured and easy to scan. Swedish employers value substance over style, so avoid flashy designs. The tone should be confident but not boastful, reflecting the cultural concept of lagom (not too much, not too little). English-language CVs are widely accepted, especially in tech and international companies.
Format and Structure
A Swedish CV begins with contact information, followed by a brief personal profile (personligt brev is the separate cover letter), work experience, education, skills and languages. Use reverse-chronological order for both work experience and education. Include precise dates (month and year) for each position. Swedish CVs use a single-column or clean two-column layout with generous white space. Section headings should be clear and standardised. A separate personal letter (personligt brev) is always expected alongside the CV and is considered equally important.
What to Include and What to Omit
Include your full contact details but omit your date of birth, marital status, nationality and photo. Language skills should be listed clearly, with Swedish and English being the minimum expectation for most roles. Technical skills and software proficiencies should be specific and relevant. Volunteer work and association memberships are viewed positively and demonstrate social engagement. Do not include personal identification numbers (personnummer). References are typically listed at the bottom with two to three contacts, or noted as available upon request.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Including a photo is the most common mistake made by international applicants and may cause your CV to be set aside. Avoid overly self-promotional language, as Swedish work culture values humility and teamwork. Do not use a generic cover letter; Swedish employers expect a personalised personligt brev for each application. Failing to mention relevant volunteer work or side projects is a missed opportunity, as these are valued in Sweden. Keep the design professional and avoid using multiple colours, decorative fonts or unnecessary graphic elements.
Tips for Standing Out
Emphasise collaborative achievements and team contributions, as Swedish employers value consensus-driven work styles. Highlight any experience with agile methodologies, flat organisational structures or cross-functional teamwork. If you speak Swedish, even at a basic level, mention it prominently as it demonstrates commitment to integration. Reference sustainability initiatives or social responsibility projects you have contributed to, as these resonate strongly with Swedish employers. Use LinkedIn actively, as Sweden has one of the highest per-capita LinkedIn usage rates globally.