Working as a pharmacist in Sweden

In order to work as a pharmacist in the Swedish health care system, for example in pharmacies, hospital pharmacies and clinics, you are required to have a Swedish licence. Uppsala University organises training and tests for foreign pharmacists who wish to acquire a Swedish licence.

To work in the pharmaceutical industry and private companies, it is up to each employer to define what requirements are needed for the job. A Swedish licence is not always required.

If you want to apply for a Swedish licence, you first need to show that you have the skills required to work in your profession in Sweden. In general there are two ways to reach your Swedish licence: through a complementary programme or a proficiency test.

Note! A good level of Swedish is necessary for both ways and should be studied before applying. What is also good to know is that these two ways are aimed for people who already is located in Sweden. If you are not located in Sweden all the steps will be more difficult and complicated.

Different ways to a Swedish licence

There are two different ways to obtain a Swedish licence. Uppsala University organises a complementary programme and a proficiency test for pharmacists with a foreign degree.

1. The way via the National Board of Health and Welfare

This alternative consists of a proficiency test that is arranged at Uppsala University. The proficiency test consists of a theoretical part and a practical part.

2. The way via a complementary programme

The complementary programme for pharmacists with a foreign degree is a full-time education of approximately one year. After the programme, you can apply for a licence with the National Board of Health and Welfare.

Information in Arabic about the complementary programme and proficiency test(PDF)

Last modified: 2022-07-25
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