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Power of Attorney (PoA) in Sweden: How to Choose, create, and use it legally

Modern tools like laptops and BankID simplify POA creation in Sweden, making it easier to draft, sign, and manage powers of attorney digitally.

Granting someone Power of Attorney (POA) in Sweden can be a simple task, but only if done correctly. Swedish law provides several types of POAs, each with specific legal requirements, levels of authority, and appropriate use cases. Whether for business, personal, healthcare, or real estate purposes, understanding how to draft, execute, and revoke a POA is essential for anyone managing decisions on behalf of another.

This article guides you through every step, from selecting the right POA type to handling revocation and filing formalities.

Four types of POA in Sweden and when to use them

In Sweden, not all POAs are equal. Choosing the wrong one can prevent your agent from acting as expected.

  1. General Power of Attorney (Allmän fullmakt): Used for broad authority in financial or legal matters. It excludes highly sensitive tasks like selling property unless clearly granted.
  2. Special Power of Attorney (Särskild fullmakt): Grants authority for a specific action, like managing one transaction, attending a legal hearing, or handling a single task.
  3. DurablePower of Attorney (Framtidsfullmakt): Takes effect only if the principal becomes incapacitated. Often used in long-term financial or healthcare planning.
  4. Healthcare Power of Attorney (Vårdfullmakt): Authorises another person to make medical decisions when the principal cannot do so.

How to create a valid POA in Sweden

To be enforceable, a POA must meet basic Swedish legal standards. Follow these steps:

  1. Define the authority: Clearly state what the agent is authorised to do. Include specific tasks, limits, and dates of effect if applicable.
  2. Choose the format: A POA can be either written on paper or created digitally. Sweden accepts BankID signatures for electronic POAs.
  3. Draft the document: It must include:
    • Names and identification of principal and agent
    • Description of powers granted
    • Date of effect and expiration (if any)
    • Conditions or restrictions
  1. Sign the POA: A handwritten signature is valid. If using BankID, the digital signature is equally legal. While not always required, witness signatures or notarisation can be useful, especially for real estate or international use.

When and where a POA needs to be filed

In most cases, you do not need to file a POA with the authorities. However, registration may be required depending on the context:

  • Real estate: file with the Land Registry (Lantmäteriet).
  • Banks: submit the POA to the relevant bank branch for approval.
  • Tax matters: file with the Swedish Tax Agency.
  • Court proceedings: present it as part of legal documentation.

Institutions may ask for notarisation or certified ID copies, particularly for high-value or cross-border matters.

How to revoke a POA

The principal can revoke the POA at any time, as long as they remain legally capable. The process is simple:

  • Write a clear notice of revocation.
  • Notify the agent in writing.
  • Inform any third parties or institutions relying on the POA.
  • File the revocation with any authority where the original POA was registered.

Revocation takes effect as soon as the agent and other relevant parties are informed.

How long a POA lasts in Sweden

A POA stays valid until:

  • The date of expiration stated in the document.
  • The principal revokes it.
  • The principal dies or becomes incapacitated (unless it’s a durable POA).

A durable POA remains valid even if the principal loses capacity. It only ends upon death or if revoked through court proceedings.

Practical tips to get it right

  • Use BankID for secure and valid electronic POAs.
  • Always define the scope and limits of authority.
  • Consider having the POA witnessed or notarised for added protection.
  • Notify banks or authorities in advance to confirm they accept your POA format.
  • Store a copy securely and give one to the agent.

What’s next?

Power of Attorney is a powerful legal tool, if used correctly. Whether you’re authorising someone to manage a Swedish branch, sign contracts, or act during incapacity, Klea can help.

We work with legal experts in Sweden to ensure your POA is valid, recognised, and safely filed where needed.

For more insights into processes in other jurisdictions, explore our article, Director changes in Greece: Steps, risks, and compliance.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on Klea’s website is made available “as is” for informational purposes only. Klea does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice and is not responsible for any actions taken or not taken based on the content found on this website. In no event shall Klea be liable for any loss or damages arising from reliance on the information contained herein.

For specific legal or compliance support tailored to your business needs, please contact Klea directly. Our team provides personalized guidance and expert solutions. Any reliance on general content without direct consultation does not establish any legal responsibility or liability on Klea’s part.

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