Issuing invoices correctly is more than just a matter of professionalism. In Sweden, a business-to-business (B2B) invoice must meet strict legal requirements set by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket). Failure to comply can result in delays, disputes, or even penalties. Having a reliable invoice template ensures that your company stays compliant while presenting a clear and trustworthy image to your business partners.
1. Why Compliance Matters in Swedish Invoicing
In Sweden, invoices are not just proof of sale—they are also vital accounting documents that must meet VAT and bookkeeping regulations. Every invoice must contain specific information to be considered valid. A properly designed template reduces administrative errors and helps build credibility with Swedish clients.
2. Mandatory Elements in a Swedish B2B Invoice
The Swedish Tax Agency requires that every invoice include certain details. Omitting any of these may make the invoice invalid. At a minimum, your invoice template must contain:
- Invoice number: A unique, sequential number that cannot be reused.
- Invoice date: The date when the invoice is issued.
- Seller details: Company name, address, corporate identity number (organisationsnummer), and VAT number if applicable.
- Buyer details: Client’s company name, address, and VAT number (if applicable).
- Description of goods or services: Clear specification of what has been sold, including quantities and unit prices.
- Date of supply: The date when goods were delivered or services performed.
- Total amount: The full price excluding VAT, VAT rate, VAT amount, and total including VAT.
- Currency: State the invoicing currency, typically SEK or EUR for cross-border sales.
- Payment terms: Due date, late payment interest, and bank account details.
3. Optional but Recommended Information
While not always legally required, including the following information can improve clarity and reduce disputes:
- Reference person or department at the buyer’s company.
- Purchase order number (if provided by the client).
- Delivery terms (e.g., Incoterms for international trade).
- Company logo for branding and recognition.
4. Practical Layout of a Swedish B2B Invoice Template
A professional invoice should be clear and easy to read. The following structure is recommended:
- Header: Company name, logo, and contact details.
- Invoice information: Invoice number, invoice date, due date, and reference details.
- Buyer information: Company name, address, VAT number.
- Itemized list: Description, quantity, unit price, VAT rate, line total.
- Summary: Subtotal, VAT amount, total payable.
- Payment instructions: Bank account/IBAN, SWIFT code, payment terms.
- Footer: Legal disclaimers or company registration details.
5. Example of an Invoice Layout
Below is a simplified example of how a legally compliant Swedish B2B invoice might look:
INVOICE Seller: CE Sweden AB Address: Examplegatan 10, 111 11 Stockholm Org.nr: 556123-4567 VAT no: SE556123456701 Buyer: Nordic Import AB Address: Industrivägen 25, 114 55 Stockholm VAT no: SE556987654301 Invoice no: 2025-0012 Invoice date: 24 August 2025 Due date: 23 September 2025 Reference: PO-4587 Description Qty Unit Price VAT % Line Total ---------------------------------------------------------- Consulting hours 20 1,000 SEK 25% 20,000 SEK ---------------------------------------------------------- Subtotal: 20,000 SEK VAT 25%: 5,000 SEK TOTAL: 25,000 SEK Payment terms: 30 days net Bank: SEB IBAN: SE45 5000 0000 0583 9825 7466 SWIFT/BIC: ESSESESS Late payment interest: 8% per annum
From Compliance to Professionalism
Using a legally compliant invoice template ensures that your company meets Swedish VAT and accounting rules while projecting professionalism to clients. It prevents costly mistakes, speeds up payment processes, and strengthens your credibility in the B2B market.
Need a customized Swedish invoice template adapted to your business? CE Sweden can design a professional layout that fully complies with local regulations.
