Work & taxes
Collective agreements and unions
Much of Swedish working life is regulated by collective agreements between unions and employers. Joining a union is voluntary — and often worth it.
Collective agreements
A collective agreement (kollektivavtal) sets minimum pay, overtime and unsocial-hours pay, extra holiday, occupational pension and insurance for a whole sector. Ask a new employer: “Har ni kollektivavtal?” Sweden has no general statutory minimum wage — collective agreements fill that role.
Joining a union
Unions are organised by sector and education. The three confederations are LO (mainly blue-collar), TCO (professional employees) and Saco (graduates). Membership costs a monthly fee and gives you advice, legal help in disputes, salary statistics and often income insurance. Many unions are linked to an unemployment fund — see a-kassa.
Official sources
Rules and fees change. Always confirm on the official page before you apply or pay. Last checked 14 Oct 2026.