Hey! So you moved to Sweden, wow, great decision! Now you’re enjoying Fika, watching four seasons a day, and maybe even starting to understand the Swedish language a little.
But honestly, living here, while wonderful, can sometimes feel a little expensive. It’s normal to feel a little stressed about managing money.
Imagine Earning Extra from Skills You Already Have
Imagine if the skills you already have, which you yourself consider normal, could bring you extra money, more financial freedom, and maybe even a new career?
You don’t need to be a tech genius. Whether you’re an expert at tumbling, good at organizing, good at writing, or even a little bit of coding, Sweden has a way to monetize them all.
I’ve been observing the freelance and side-hustle scene here for quite some time, and I’ll explain it step-by-step in simple language, without confusing jargon.
Let’s turn your competencies (skills) into cash!
Essential Legal Steps: Registering for F-Skatt or FA-Skatt in Sweden
First, a little boring, but important, note: legal matters. You’ll need to take care of some paperwork before you can dream of income. Don’t worry, I’ll explain it simply.
- Understanding Sweden’s System: F-skatt and FA-skatt
If you’re earning money independently, you’re more likely to be considered a freelancer. This requires registering with Skatteverket (the Swedish Tax Agency).
1. F-skatt (Tax Certificate for Entrepreneurs)
This is usually obtained by freelancers and sole traders.
This allows you to,
- Invoice your clients, including VAT (MOMS), which you then report and pay to Skatteverket.
- Deduct business-related expenses (such as a new laptop, rent for a portion of your home if using a home office, or even a deal with a client, sometimes).
When to choose: If you plan to earn well or run a proper business, go for F-Skat.
2. FA-Skat (Special Income Tax for Employers)
This is a bit simple but restrictive. You can’t deduct expenses or charge VAT. It’s usually for small, occasional jobs.
When to choose: If you’re just trying out, planning to take on a few small, one-off gigs, FA-Skat is fine.
My honest suggestion: If you’re seriously looking to monetize your skills, go for F-Skat. It’s more flexible in the long term and offers financial benefits.
Registration is online and can be a bit daunting, but Skatteverket’s website is quite clear, even in English. You’ll do it!
Practical Side Hustle Ideas That Work in Sweden
Now the fun part, real ideas that work in Sweden.
1. Digital Freelancer Path in Sweden
If you know writing, graphic design, programming, social media management, or translation, this is perfect.
Where to Find Clients for Digital Freelancing:
- Local Platforms: Start with Facebook groups. Search “Freelancer in Stockholm/Göteborg/Malmö” or “Freelance Writers Sweden.” Local opportunities are available.
- International Platforms: Sites like Upwork and Fiverr are also good, but there’s more global competition. What’s your unique point? You’re in Sweden, understand the local culture and business, which will appeal to those targeting the Nordic market.
Example: Anna, a British expat, loved to write. She joined the “Freelance Writers in Stockholm” group and provided English website content to a Swedish startup that felt natural, not translated. She charged 350 SEK/hour and built a portfolio.
2. Crafty & Creative Path: Selling Handmade Goods in Sweden
If you’re into handcrafting, there’s a good demand for handmade items in Sweden.
What Can You Sell:
Homemade candles, pottery, knitwear (stickat), jewelry, or specialty baked goods.
Where to Sell Handmade Items:
- Etsy: Create a shop and target the Swedish market. Use keywords like “Swedish design,” “handmade in Sweden,” “Scandinavian home decor.”
- Local Markets (Loppis or Markets): Markets like Hornstulls Markets (Stockholm) or Saluhallen (Gothenburg) offer direct customer service. They create a good community vibe.
- Instagram & TikTok: Showcase your creation’s story on visual platforms. A short video of you making a ceramic mug is very effective.
3. Service-Based Path: Local Gigs Using Your Time and Skills
This utilizes your time and physical presence, earn money by helping others.
Skill Ideas for Service-Based Side Hustles:
- Personal Assistant: Help busy expats or locals with errands, admin, or IKEA furniture assembly.
- Dog Walking (hundreds) or Pet Sitting: Pets are in demand in Sweden.
- Cleaning or Home Organization: Offer eco-friendly cleaning or decluttering services.
- Private Tutoring: Teaching your native language, instrument, or school subjects.
Practical tip: Make simple flyers and put them up in the common area of your apartment building or at local supermarkets. Word-of-mouth works wonders, do good work, and your reputation will grow.
Mindset and Money Management for Freelancers in Sweden
Monetizing skills isn’t just about logistics; mindset is also important.
- Pricing Yourself Confidently
This is the hardest part for beginners. Research what others are charging. Don’t undervalue yourself. Your price should reflect your skills, time, and value. A good way to start is to calculate your desired hourly rate.
- Accept the Side Hustle Rollercoaster
Some months will be booming, some quiet. This is normal. In quiet times, improve your skills, update your portfolio, or take a break.
- Learn to Say No
When offers start coming in, it’s tempting to take every low-paying or wrong-fit project. Rejecting projects that don’t match your goals or rate is a professional trait, not a weakness.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: You Will Succeed in Monetizing Skills in Sweden
You will do it!
Starting something new can feel scary. It’s normal to have imposter feelings, “Who am I to charge?”, but everyone feels that way in the beginning.
Your skills are valuable. Your unique perspective from living in Sweden is also valuable. These steps will not only earn you extra money but also build your confidence, create a safety net, and become more involved in your new community.
You don’t need to quit your day job just yet. Start small. Apply for F-Skat. Build a listing. Reach out to a potential client.
Final Tip and Action Steps to Start Your Side Hustle Today
Next step? Open your phone or paper and write down the answers to these 3 questions,
- What is one skill I love to do and people compliment me on?
- Who is one person I could turn to for advice or feedback this week?
- What could be one small, actionable step in the next 48 hours? (Like “Browse the Skatteverket website for 15 minutes” or “Join a relevant Facebook group.”)
Take one small step. You’ve already shown great courage by moving to a new country. This is the next exciting chapter in that journey.
Read: How to Find International Angel Investment Opportunities in 2026
