- Salary statistics
- Embassy Council
Embassy Council
50 000 - 156 100 kr / month
Women earn 101% of what men do.
Chefer & ledare
Salary progression Embassy Council
What does an ambassador counselor do? – Tasks and work environment
An ambassador counselor works as a senior diplomatic officer at Sweden's embassies or within the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The role involves analyzing, evaluating, and reporting on political, economic, and social issues in the country where the embassy is located. The ambassador counselor often acts as an advisor to the ambassador and leads or coordinates various projects, negotiations, and delegations. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, international contacts, and often complex tasks where discretion and strategic thinking are crucial. Many ambassador counselors work abroad for periods, but the position can also involve work at home with international responsibilities.
Salary development over time
The salary for an ambassador counselor has been high over the past three years, with some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month, which increased to 73 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has stabilized at 72 900 SEK, representing a slight decrease of less than one percent compared to the previous year, but still an overall increase of approximately 3.8% over the three-year period. Changes are partly explained by market demand for diplomatic specialists and adjustments in government salary structures. The high salary level also reflects the profession's requirements for extensive education and solid experience in international relations, law, and administration.
Ambassador counselor salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 50,000 SEK/month (men), 53,900 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 156,100 SEK/month (men), 131,700 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 439 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do
Education and qualifications
To become an ambassador counselor, an advanced academic degree is required, often in law, political science, economics, or international relations. The position is usually reached after several years of experience in diplomatic or government work, and it is common to have worked as a case officer or secretary at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The selection process is highly selective and demands strong language skills, analytical ability, and international experience.
- Academic degree: Master's or magister level in a relevant field (4–5 years)
- Diplomatic program: Recommended educational path via the Ministry for Foreign Affairs (2 years)
- Language skills: Documented proficiency in English and at least one additional language
- Work experience: Several years of experience from MFA or another international environment
- Internship: Relevant experience from internships or trainee positions at an embassy or international organization
Many ambassador counselors develop expert competence in specific regions or issues over time, making them particularly sought-after for international negotiations or special assignments. This specialized expertise can open doors to top positions within Swedish and international diplomacy.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, the position often includes benefits such as overseas allowances, housing allowances, travel home, and extra compensation for postings in countries with particular risks or high living costs. Occupational pension, health insurance, and opportunities for further education are also common benefits for ambassador counselors.
Competition and challenges
Competition for ambassador counselor positions is very fierce, as the number of available roles is limited and the selection process involves highly qualified applicants. Expectations for diplomatic professionalism, resilience under stress, and integrity are high. The career also involves challenges such as regular international postings, which can impact private life and require great adaptability. At the same time, there are demands to quickly familiarize oneself with new work environments and handle sensitive issues in an international context.
Tips for aspiring ambassador counselors
To succeed as an ambassador counselor, it is helpful to be analytical and capable of managing complex information, which is facilitated by deepening knowledge of social issues and international politics during studies. Active networking and internships within international organizations provide valuable experience and contacts. Good communication skills are essential, so it pays to continuously improve language skills and practice clear written and oral expression. Demonstrating initiative and leadership in previous roles is often appreciated in the selection process. Finally, personal integrity and the ability to work under pressure are important qualities for thriving and succeeding in the profession.
Key facts about ambassador counselors
- Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
- Education level: Master's or magister degree (4–5 years) + diplomatic program
- Work environment: International, often abroad
- Available jobs: 175 advertised positions within the profession
- Gender difference: Women earn 101% of men's salaries
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an ambassador counselor, there are opportunities to advance to minister counselor, ambassador, or take leading positions within the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Specialization in areas such as trade, security policy, or development cooperation can also lead to international assignments within the EU, UN, or other multilateral organizations. The outlook remains stable, with high demand for experienced diplomats and an annual number of available positions reflecting retirements and Sweden's international engagement (source: Arbetsförmedlingen).
Frequently asked questions about ambassador counselors
- What does an ambassador counselor earn?
- An ambassador counselor has an average salary of 72 900 SEK per month, but the salary can vary between 50,000 and 156,100 SEK depending on experience and placement. - Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do, with an average salary of 73 200 SEK compared to men's 72 700 SEK. - What education is required to become an ambassador counselor?
- A master's or magister degree in fields such as law, political science, or economics, along with completed diploma training, is recommended. - What is the job market like for ambassador counselors?
- There are approximately 175 available jobs within the profession, but competition is very fierce. - What are the most common benefits?
- Common benefits include overseas allowances, housing allowances, travel home, occupational pension, and health insurance. - How wide is the salary spread?
- The salary spread is large, with the lowest at 50,000 SEK and the highest at 156,100 SEK, depending on experience, sector, and education. - What is the hourly wage for an ambassador counselor?
- The average hourly wage is 439 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 111% | 45100 kr | 46900 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 62500 kr | 64400 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 76000 kr | 77600 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 78500 kr | 79900 kr |
| 65-68 | 87100 kr | 88600 kr | |
| Snitt | 101% | 71300 kr | 72900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 34200 kr | 36200 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 41500 kr | 43400 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 58900 kr | 60100 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 71800 kr | 72600 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 77500 kr | 78300 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 87300 kr | 88100 kr |
| Snitt | 107% | 68500 kr | 69400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 34200 kr | 36200 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 41100 kr | 43100 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 56000 kr | 57200 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 66600 kr | 67300 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 70200 kr | 70900 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 73600 kr | 74000 kr |
| Snitt | 106% | 62400 kr | 63300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 95% | 64200 kr | 64200 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 79500 kr | 80200 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 85600 kr | 86400 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 87200 kr | 87800 kr |
| 65-68 | 100% | 87400 kr | 88200 kr |
| Snitt | 100% | 85400 kr | 86100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 78% | 94900 kr | 96600 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 111200 kr | 113600 kr |
| 55-64 | 90% | 116600 kr | 118500 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 123000 kr | 124800 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 114500 kr | 116500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 49900 kr | 51600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 68500 kr | 71700 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 82600 kr | 85500 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 80100 kr | 82600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 75900 kr | 78600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 49900 kr | 51600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 68500 kr | 71700 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 82600 kr | 85500 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 80100 kr | 82600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 75900 kr | 78600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 111% | 43300 kr | 45500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 62200 kr | 64800 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 76500 kr | 78700 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 77900 kr | 79800 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 70500 kr | 72700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 34400 kr | 36300 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 40400 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 56600 kr | 58500 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 70800 kr | 72100 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 76400 kr | 77500 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 90800 kr | 91900 kr |
| Snitt | 107% | 65800 kr | 67200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 34400 kr | 36300 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 40000 kr | 42200 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 53700 kr | 55700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 66000 kr | 67200 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 69700 kr | 70600 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 77000 kr | 77900 kr |
| Snitt | 106% | 60100 kr | 61600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 95% | 65400 kr | 65400 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 80500 kr | 81200 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 85400 kr | 86400 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 86600 kr | 87600 kr |
| 65-68 | 100% | 87000 kr | 88300 kr |
| Snitt | 100% | 85100 kr | 86100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 78% | 105000 kr | 106600 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 114600 kr | 117300 kr |
| 55-64 | 90% | 123300 kr | 125900 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 131300 kr | 132900 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 119900 kr | 122400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 48300 kr | 50400 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 69700 kr | 73300 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 82000 kr | 85100 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 79700 kr | 82600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 76100 kr | 79100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 48300 kr | 50400 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 69700 kr | 73300 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 82000 kr | 85100 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 79700 kr | 82600 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 76100 kr | 79100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 111% | 49400 kr | 50400 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 62900 kr | 63900 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 75200 kr | 76100 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 79200 kr | 80000 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 72400 kr | 73200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 33800 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 45400 kr | 46500 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 61400 kr | 61900 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 72600 kr | 73000 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 78600 kr | 79000 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 84800 kr | 85300 kr |
| Snitt | 107% | 71300 kr | 71700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 33800 kr | 36000 kr |
| 25-34 | 109% | 45000 kr | 46100 kr |
| 35-44 | 106% | 58600 kr | 59000 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 67100 kr | 67400 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 70800 kr | 71100 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 71300 kr | 71300 kr |
| Snitt | 106% | 64900 kr | 65300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 95% | 62300 kr | 62300 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 78800 kr | 79400 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 85800 kr | 86500 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 87600 kr | 87900 kr |
| 65-68 | 100% | 87700 kr | 88200 kr |
| Snitt | 100% | 85600 kr | 86100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 78% | 81400 kr | 83400 kr |
| 45-54 | 94% | 108500 kr | 110600 kr |
| 55-64 | 90% | 111900 kr | 113400 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 116500 kr | 118200 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 110400 kr | 112100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 0 kr | 53700 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 66300 kr | 68500 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 84300 kr | 86800 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 81000 kr | 82800 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 75300 kr | 77400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 107% | 0 kr | 53700 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 66300 kr | 68500 kr |
| 45-54 | 102% | 84300 kr | 86800 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 81000 kr | 82800 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 75300 kr | 77400 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Embassy Council has the SSYK code 1230, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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