Audit Firm

An audit company registered as an audit firm can be selected as auditor, unlike an audit company that is not registered. For each audit assignment, the company must appoint an approved or authorized auditor as the main responsible auditor. Where an authorized auditor would have been required for a natural person, the main responsible auditor must also be authorized.

Audit firms can be partnerships or limited companies. The Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors registers and exercises supervision. Registration is valid for five years. Requirements include that the company is not bankrupt or in liquidation, is owned by auditors or registered audit firms, and that board members, CEO and signatories are auditors.

Registration requirements

  • Company form: Partnership or limited company.
  • Financial status: The company must not be bankrupt or in liquidation.
  • Ownership: The company must be owned by auditors or by one or more registered audit firms.
  • Board and management: The company's board members, deputy board members, managing director, deputy managing director, signatories and authorized representatives must be auditors.
  • Suitability: The company must be honest and suitable to practice auditing.
  • Exemptions: There are certain exemptions from the above requirements that can be read about on the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors' website.

Application procedure

  • Application sent to: Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors.
  • For limited companies: Attach registration certificate, articles of association, share register/ownership list, latest approved annual report, organizational chart of ownership structure/group, special certificate from insurance provider (not insurance policy).
  • For partnerships: Attach registration certificate, partnership agreement, latest prepared annual accounts/annual report, organizational chart of ownership structure/group, special certificate from insurance provider (not insurance policy).
  • Fee: After application, an invoice for the application fee is mailed to the company.
  • E-service: Application can be made via e-service on the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors' website.

Validity period

  • Validity period: Registration is valid for five years.