⚠️ This guide was researched and updated in May 2026. Laws and regulations change frequently. For specific legal advice regarding your jurisdiction, please consult with local legal counsel.

Sweden Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Sweden. This guide covers witness rules, probate processes and jurisdiction-specific considerations that may apply. Rules vary, so consult a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

Estate Planning in Sweden at a Glance

Sweden has strong forced heirship (särkullbarn) protecting children and surviving spouses. Children entitled to half the estate as inheritance portion (laglott). Surviving spouse inherits everything but children have future claim after spouse's death. Cohabitants (sambo) have limited rights under Sambo Act. No inheritance tax since 2005.

No inheritance tax since 2005
Children get 50% as forced heirs (särkullbarn)
Surviving spouse inherits all with children's future claim
Cohabitants have limited rights under Sambo Act
Estate inventory (bouppteckning) within 3 months
Holographic wills not valid - need witnesses
Marriage automatically revokes previous wills

Will Requirements in Sweden

Creating a will in Sweden typically involves national rules and any local variations. Witness requirements, signing procedures and other formalities can vary by jurisdiction, so consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Witness Requirements: 2 witnesses present together, cannot be beneficiaries or related to testator/beneficiaries

Holographic Wills:Formal witnessing is generally required

Inheritance Tax in Sweden

Sweden does not currently impose an inheritance tax

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Sweden

Protected family shares: Särkullbarn (children from previous relationships) can claim inheritance immediately. Common children wait until surviving spouse dies. Children's laglott = 50% of what they would get without will.

Related Resources

What Happens Without a Will?

Read about intestacy rules and how an estate may be distributed if you die without a will.

Global Inheritance Tax Guide

Compare inheritance tax rates, thresholds and exemptions across countries.

Digital & Physical Will Signatures

How signing rules differ across jurisdictions and where digital signatures may be accepted.

Estate Planning Information for Sweden

This guide is for information only. We don’t yet have coverage for Sweden. Register your interest below and we’ll let you know when coverage becomes available, or find a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

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