Background & Purpose

To prevent individuals with harmful intentions from working in sensitive public roles, the government identified a need for more thorough vetting processes.

Proposals & Debate

The proposal allows municipalities to access information from the criminal record and the suspicion register. This applies to those working with children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those applying for leadership positions.

The Decision

The Swedish Parliament decided to grant municipalities the legal right to perform these expanded background checks starting in March 2026.

Does this affect you?

  • Municipal job applicants: Individuals applying for roles involving children, the elderly, or leadership positions will undergo more thorough background checks.
  • Elderly and disabled care recipients: These groups receive increased protection as the staff working in their homes will be subject to stricter vetting.

In Practice

  • Municipalities can check the criminal record of applicants for home care services for the elderly.
  • Background checks will be possible for those applying for leadership roles in the municipality.
  • The scope of checks for staff working with children is widened.
  • Municipalities can now access the suspicion register in specific cases to ensure safety.