If you have trained as a veterinary nurse (or equivalent) in another country and want to work in Sweden, you need to have your training assessed by the Swedish Board of Agriculture. They will determine whether your training corresponds to the Swedish veterinary nurse training and whether you can obtain Swedish certification.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Find out if you belong to the EU/EEA or not
• If you have been educated within the EU or EEA (e.g. Germany, Spain, France): You are covered by the EU rules for the recognition of professional qualifications.
• If you have studied outside the EU/EEA (e.g. USA, Ukraine, Philippines): You must undergo an individual assessment.
Depending on which one applies to you, the process is a little different.
2. Gather your documents
The Swedish Board of Agriculture requires that you submit certain documents. These should be in Swedish or English, or translated by an authorized translator.
You need:
• Degree/diploma
• Course certificate or training plan
• Certificate of practical service (if you have done an internship)
• Passport or ID document
• Any certificates from previous employers
Tip: Ask your educational institution to write a document explaining the content and length of the training, preferably compared to EU standards.
3. Submit your application to the Swedish Board of Agriculture
You apply for identification or recognition via the Swedish Board of Agriculture's website:
www.jordbruksverket.se
Search for: “Identification for veterinary nurses with foreign education”. There you will find forms and instructions.
You also need to pay an application fee (in 2024 it was approximately SEK 1,350, subject to change).
4. Wait for a decision – it may take time
The processing time varies, but expect a few months depending on how complete your application is.
It may happen that the Swedish Board of Agriculture:
• Approves your training immediately
• Requires completion (e.g. language requirements or internship in Sweden)
• Rejects your application (then you can appeal or apply for supplementary training)
5. Supplement if necessary
If your education does not fully meet Swedish requirements, the Swedish Board of Agriculture may suggest:
• Additional education at SLU or another education provider
• Internship or probationary period in Sweden
• Swedish language test – often requires knowledge equivalent to Swedish B/SVA 2
6. Get your ID and start working!
Once the Swedish Board of Agriculture has approved your training and any additional training is complete, you will receive your license. You can then apply for work as a licensed animal nurse all over Sweden.
Additional tips:
• Contact the Swedish Board of Agriculture in advance if you are unsure – they are helpful and can provide guidance based on your specific background.
• Make an assessment with UHR (University and Higher Education Council) if you want to have your education valued for a more general academic purpose:
www.uhr.se