Särbor

Särbor is a Swedish term used to describe a person who is in a romantic relationship but maintains a separate residence from their partner. The concept focuses on living apart rather than being married or living in a single shared home. There is no formal legal status attached to being a särbo.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from sär, meaning separate, and bo, meaning to live. The plural särbor refers to individuals who are in such a relationship. The term is commonly used in everyday language to describe couples who choose or need to live in separate households, whether for work, housing availability, parenting arrangements, or personal preference.

Context and implications: In Sweden, särbor often maintain individual households while sharing aspects of their lives, such as parenting duties, finances for children, or social activities. The arrangement can last for varying lengths of time and may coexist with other relationship structures. Finances and household responsibilities are typically managed independently, though some couples may coordinate costs related to children or joint responsibilities.

Legal and administrative aspects: There is no special legal category or rights granted specifically to särbor. Legal protections and obligations for couples who live together are determined by general family law or, if applicable, by laws governing registered partnerships or marriage. Taxation is generally individual, and being a särbo does not confer additional tax benefits or duties beyond those of any private individual.

See also: Sambo (cohabitation), Gift (marriage), Sambolagen (cohabitation law).