What if a tax card (Personnummer) is not yet available during onboarding in Sweden?

During the onboarding process with Horizons for a role in Sweden, it is not uncommon for individuals to begin without having a Swedish tax card (personnummer). While onboarding can proceed in the meantime, the personnummer must be obtained prior to inclusion in payroll.


What Is a Personnummer?

A personnummer is a personal identity number issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket). It serves as an essential identifier and is required for various administrative and financial activities in Sweden, such as:

  • Receiving salary and employment benefits

  • Accessing public healthcare services

  • Opening bank accounts

  • Signing rental and service agreements


How to Apply for a Personnummer

To obtain a personnummer, the individual must register their move to Sweden with Skatteverket. This process must be completed in person at a local office. The following steps and documents are required:

  1. Visit a Local Skatteverket Office
    A personal visit is required. Some offices may request a scheduled appointment.

  2. Documents to Bring

    • A valid passport or national ID card (EU IDs are accepted)

    • Proof of accommodation in Sweden (e.g., rental contract)

    • An employment contract or evidence of sufficient financial means

    • Health insurance information, if employment does not provide coverage

  3. Complete the Required Form
    The form titled "Flyttning till Sverige" (Moving to Sweden) must be completed as part of the relocation registration.

Upon approval, the applicant will be issued a personnummer and registered in the Swedish Population Register.


Onboarding with Horizons Without a Personnummer

While waiting for the personnummer:

  • The onboarding form can be completed as usual.

  • A placeholder document (such as a blank PDF) may be uploaded in place of the tax card during this stage.

  • Horizons will proceed with issuing the employment contract without the tax number.

Please note: The personnummer must be provided before the first payroll can be processed. Without it, the employee cannot be added to the payroll system.

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