Can I work in Stockholm if I don't speak the language?

Question

Hello all,

I am in a weird situation, I am currently studying in the U.S and I am graduating soon. My family currently lives in Sweden because we were granted asylum there and we all have residence there. I ideally would want to work in Dubai but I want to work in Sweden because then I would be able to get the citizenship because my current passport is horrible and is giving me a lot of trouble. I am trying to learn Swedish but it's tough to do so while I am studying. I was wondering if there is a chance for me to get in a MBB Stockholm office knowing only English and Arabic. Or perhaps if I get an offer from Dubai if I could delay my start there until I get a citizenship.

Thanks,

Answer 1

Hi Anonymous,

I know many examples of consultants who have worked in Scandinavia without speaking the local language. So English should be sufficient in a significant share of the projects.

However, most of these people that I know have transferred to a nordic office within the firm - you will need to find out what the formal recruiting requirements in terms of language are for each firm. But this should be quite easy - just reach out to HR/recruiting and discuss the matter! This is what these colleagues are there for.

Cheers, Sidi

Answer 2

Dear A,

Usually Scandinavian offices are considered as English speaking offices.

Best,
André