Does Employment in Sweden Count Toward a Ukrainian Pension?
Many Ukrainians have worked or continue to work in Sweden. When applying for an old-age pension in Ukraine, they often ask whether the employment record acquired in Sweden will be taken into account and whether it can be used to qualify for a Ukrainian pension. As of 2026, Ukraine and Sweden have not concluded a bilateral social security or pension agreement. This fact has a significant impact on whether periods of employment in Sweden can be recognized when determining eligibility for a Ukrainian pension.
This article explains the current legal framework, practical aspects of applying for a Ukrainian pension, the documents that may be required, and the legal remedies available if the Pension Fund refuses to grant a pension.
Does employment in Sweden count toward a Ukrainian pension?
As a general rule, the Pension Fund of Ukraine recognizes insurance periods accumulated in Ukraine, as well as periods that must be taken into account under international treaties concluded by Ukraine. Since there is currently no pension agreement between Ukraine and Sweden, periods of employment in Sweden are generally not included in the insurance record required to qualify for a Ukrainian old-age pension.
As a result, a person may have worked in Sweden for many years but still fail to meet the minimum insurance record required to receive a Ukrainian pension.
How much insurance record is required in 2026?
In 2026, eligibility for an old-age pension in Ukraine depends on the number of years of qualifying insurance record. If an individual does not have the required number of years, they may become eligible later or use other legal mechanisms provided by Ukrainian legislation. Therefore, proving every year of employment is particularly important for people who have worked abroad.
Does moving to Sweden affect the right to receive a Ukrainian pension?
No. Living in Sweden does not, by itself, deprive a Ukrainian citizen of the right to receive a Ukrainian pension.
In 2009, the Constitutional Court of Ukraine declared unconstitutional the legislative provisions that made pension payments dependent on the existence of an international agreement between Ukraine and the country where the pensioner permanently resides.
Accordingly, Ukrainian citizens permanently residing in Sweden may apply for the granting, restoration, or continuation of their Ukrainian pension in accordance with Ukrainian law.
Which documents can prove employment in Sweden?
The following documents may be used as evidence of employment:
- employment contracts;
- employer certificates;
- tax documents;
- extracts from official government registers;
- documents confirming payment of social security contributions;
- other official documents issued by Swedish authorities.
In most cases, documents submitted to Ukrainian authorities must be translated into Ukrainian by a qualified translator.
What should you do if the Pension Fund refuses your application?
If the Pension Fund refuses to grant a pension or declines to recognize certain periods of employment, its decision may be challenged. Before initiating court proceedings, it is advisable to conduct a legal review of the available documents, obtain the pension file, and identify the legal grounds for the refusal. Court practice shows that many pension disputes are successfully resolved in favor of applicants when supported by well-prepared evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive my Ukrainian pension while living in Sweden?
Yes. Living abroad does not automatically terminate your entitlement to a Ukrainian pension.
Will my employment in Sweden count toward my Ukrainian pension?
In most cases, no, because Ukraine and Sweden do not currently have a bilateral pension agreement.
Can I challenge a Pension Fund refusal?
Yes. Pension Fund decisions may be challenged through an administrative appeal or before the courts.
Do Swedish documents need to be translated?
Yes. Documents submitted to Ukrainian authorities generally must be accompanied by a Ukrainian translation.
Conclusion
As of 2026, employment in Sweden is generally not counted toward the insurance record required for a Ukrainian pension because there is no bilateral pension agreement between Ukraine and Sweden. Nevertheless, Ukrainian citizens residing in Sweden do not lose their right to receive a Ukrainian pension and may protect their rights if the Pension Fund issues an unlawful decision.
Author: Roman Chumak, Attorney-at-Law, Managing Partner of ARES Law Firm, with more than 20 years of experience in pension law and social security matters.
