Folkbokföringsregistret

Folkbokföring is the official population registration system in Sweden. It is managed by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) and is a fundamental part of the Swedish administrative system. The system records essential information about every person residing in Sweden, including their personal identity number, name, address, date of birth, place of birth, and civil status.

The primary purpose of folkbokföring is to maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of the population. This information is crucial for various governmental and public functions, such as taxation, social security benefits, healthcare, education, and electoral rolls. It ensures that the state can provide services to its citizens and manage societal resources effectively.

Every person who moves to or from Sweden, or changes their address within Sweden, is legally obligated to report these changes to the Swedish Tax Agency. This self-reporting mechanism, combined with information from other authorities, helps maintain the integrity of the register. The system also includes a unique personal identity number (personnummer) for each individual, which facilitates identification and access to various services.

The folkbokföring system plays a vital role in the functioning of Swedish society, providing a reliable basis for administration, planning, and the provision of public services. It is a comprehensive and continuously updated database that reflects the demographic landscape of Sweden.