Interpreter

What does an interpreter do? – Tasks and work environment

An interpreter's main task is to facilitate communication between people who do not speak the same language. The work can vary greatly depending on whether it involves interpretation in legal contexts, healthcare, government contacts, or business meetings. Interpretation can be consecutive, where the interpreter speaks after the speaker has finished, or simultaneous, where the interpretation occurs concurrently with the conversation. The work requires high concentration, accuracy, and strong language skills. Many interpreters work as freelancers and may have diverse work environments, from digital meetings and phone calls to physical meetings at authorities, courts, or hospitals.

Salary development over time

The salary for an interpreter has increased significantly in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, while in 2023 it decreased slightly to 33 500 SEK. However, the salary rose sharply to 38 300 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 14.3% from the previous year. This development can be linked to increased demand for qualified interpretation services, especially within the public sector and the justice system, as well as generally higher salary levels within the profession. The differences between years also reflect uncertainties in the labor market and varying availability of assignments, with increased societal needs and digitalization contributing to a boost for the profession.

Interpreter salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, government sector, 3-year upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 230 SEK/hour
• Women: 38 500 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men: 37 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Exist but vary depending on demand and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as an interpreter, a relevant education within the field and very good knowledge of both Swedish and the target language are generally required. Formal requirements vary depending on the employer and interpretation area, but authorized and trained interpreters often have better opportunities for assignments and higher salaries. Practical experience and ongoing training are also important factors for success in the profession.

• Basic interpretation training: University or YH program, 1–2 years
• Authorization: Exam by the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency (Kammarkollegiet)
• Specialized courses: For example, legal or healthcare interpretation
• Prerequisites: Very good knowledge of Swedish and the target language
• Internship: Recommended during training
• Tips for choosing: Select a program focused on the language and area where demand is highest

Common benefits and compensations

Interpreters are often offered variable pay in the form of fees per assignment or hour, but employment with fixed monthly salary also occurs. Common benefits may include travel allowances, remote work options, wellness subsidies, and training support. Some employers also offer supplementary insurance and pension contributions.

Competition and challenges

The interpreter profession is characterized by high competition, especially for popular languages where many seek the same assignments. Challenges also include working under pressure and in situations where misunderstandings can have serious consequences. Freelance interpreters need to be skilled at marketing themselves and managing periods of uneven workload. Technical skills are increasingly important as online interpretation and digital platforms grow. Success requires a combination of language proficiency, professional ethics, and adaptability.

Tips for aspiring interpreters

To succeed as an interpreter, it is beneficial to have a strong language sense and a great interest in communication, which facilitates learning various dialects and terminologies. Discipline is crucial for managing irregular working hours and continuously developing within your language pair. Being attentive and empathetic helps build trust in meetings requiring interpretation, especially in sensitive situations. Accuracy and integrity are key qualities, as interpreters often handle confidential information and must reproduce conversations precisely. The ability to handle stress and quickly solve problems is also central, especially in simultaneous interpretation or environments with many participants. Openness to new technology and digital tools makes it easier to take on modern interpretation assignments. Finally, regularly networking and staying updated on industry developments is highly valuable.

Key facts about interpreters

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month
• Education level: YH/university education, often with authorization
• Job market: 620 available jobs in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, interpreters can advance to more specialized roles, such as legal interpreter, conference interpreter, or interpreter trainer. There are also opportunities to work as project managers within language services or start your own agency. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service (Arbetsförmedlingen), there are currently 620 job openings, but no precise forecast for future demand has been made due to limited data. Generally, demand for qualified interpreters is expected to remain stable, especially for languages with shortages of skilled professionals. Digitalization and globalization are expected to continue creating new opportunities for experienced interpreters, although competition for assignments remains.

Frequently asked questions about interpreters

• What does an interpreter earn?
  - An interpreter has an average salary of 38 300 SEK per month, with a range between 31,500 SEK and 48,100 SEK.
• How does one become an interpreter?
  - The most common way is to complete a YH or university program in interpretation and then pass an authorization exam.
• Which languages are most in demand?
  - Languages with high immigration or few trained interpreters, such as Arabic, Somali, and Tigrinya, are particularly sought after.
• Do interpreters mostly work as employees or freelancers?
  - Many work as freelancers, but there are also permanent positions within the public and private sectors.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of men's salaries in the interpretation profession.
• What career opportunities are available for experienced interpreters?
  - They can become specialists, trainers, or project managers within language services.
• What is required to become an authorized interpreter?
  - Passing an exam at Kammarkollegiet and documented language skills are required.