International debt collection for companies with customers abroad

We help Swedish companies collect debts abroad and foreign companies collect debts in Sweden.

Marginalen Inkasso - Top 10 debt collection agency in Europe

"Recognized as the one of Top 10 Debt Collection Agencies in Europe for 2024, this company has made a significant impact in the marketplace"

- Financial Services Review, 2024
Bild på ett sigill från Financial Services Review som gett Inkasso Marginalen pris för bästa inkassobolag i europa 2024

A swedish debt collection agency with extensive experience in debt collection abroad

We take care of the entire process and have a dialogue with the customer about how we can resolve the debt issue effectively. By finding solutions that work for both parties, we increase the chances of a smooth and sustainable debt settlement.

Our employees have extensive experience in international debt collection and, with the right action at the right time, we ensure that you get paid.

Read about debt collection (utlandsinkasso) in swedish

Office building for Inkasso Marginalen, an international debt collection agency in sweden

Local debt collection partners globally

Each country has its own laws and regulations when it comes to debt collection, which means that what is permitted in one country may be restricted or completely prohibited in another. In addition, business cultures differ – in some countries, a formal and legal tone is most effective, while a more relationship-based approach works better in other markets. Understanding these nuances and adapting your methods accordingly can be crucial to successfully collecting a debt abroad.

As one of the founders of the European Collectors Association (ECA), we have access to a strong international network of debt collection specialists who work together to help companies get paid, no matter where in the world your customers are located. Through the ECA, we work closely with carefully selected partners in each country, enabling us to always act in accordance with local regulations and adapt our methods to the prevailing business culture.

We offer effective and professional debt collection services globally – with the same high standards as if it were on the domestic market.

Globe on a table showing countries with international debt collection

We help you collect debt in Sweden from 90 countries

Algeria

Angola

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Bahrain

Belgium

Bosnia and
Herzegovina

Botswana

Brazil

Bulgaria

Cameroon

Canada

Chile

China

Colombia

Congo

Croatia

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Egypt

Eritrea

Estonia

Ethiopia

Finland

France

Gabon

Ghana

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

India

Indonesia

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Ivory Coast

Jordan

Kenya

Korea

Kuwait

Latvia

Lebanon

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Macedonia

Malaysia

Malta

Moldova

Morocco

Mozambique

Namibia

Netherlands

Nigeria

Norway

Oman

Philippines

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Romania

Saudi Arabia

Senegal

Serbia

Sierra Leone

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

South Africa

Spain

Sudan

Swaziland

Sweden

Switzerland

Tanzania

Thailand

Trinidad & Tobago

Tunisia

Turkey

Germany

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

USA

Vietnam

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Map that shows all the countries our debt collection agency can recover debts from

How international debt collection works

Collecting debts from customers abroad can be both complicated and time-consuming. With our experience, knowledge and extensive network, we ensure that you get paid – efficiently and professionally.

You send us the documentation

Once we have received the documentation, we send a debt collection notice to the debtor, usually on the same day – either ourselves or via our network of agents.

Follow the case in the Customer Portal

In our Customer Portal, you can easily follow the status and progress of your ongoing cases.

Get paid immediately when your customer pays

When we receive payment from your customer, it is immediately transferred to your account. If your customer does not pay within the specified time, we will assess further action

Preventing international debt disputes

To avoid unnecessary disputes in international business, it is important to specify in the agreement which country's law will apply (choice of law clause) and how any disputes will be resolved (dispute resolution clause).

An effective alternative to court proceedings is arbitration, for example through the  ICC or SCC, as this is often faster and more flexible. It is also a good idea to clearly state where the transaction is considered to have taken place, as this affects payment terms, debt collection and legal action. Clear agreements create security and reduce the risk of costly legal proceedings.

Reminders, interest rates and fees related to debt collection

The rules for payment reminders, late payment interest and debt collection fees also differ between countries. Within the EU, there is a specific directive on late payments that entitles creditors to statutory interest and compensation for collection costs when companies pay late.

Outside the EU, the rules may be different. In some countries, for example, a payment reminder must be sent before debt collection measures can be initiated. The costs of legal proceedings and enforcement also vary from country to country.

To ensure that the process is both efficient and correct, it is therefore important to work with a debt collection agency who have local knowledge and experience.

Contact us for help with international debt collection

Debt collection process overview

In most countries, the debt collection process begins with a payment reminder, followed by a formal debt collection notice, which often includes statutory fees and interest on delayed payments.

If the customer still does not pay, legal action may be necessary, for example through a court hearing or equivalent authority for payment orders. If the debt is legally established, enforcement measures may be taken, such as attachment of earnings, seizure of assets or other measures to secure payment.

In some countries, the debt collection process is quick and efficient, while in others it can take considerably longer, especially if service of process or disputes arise.  

Flow chart that illustrated how the debt collection process abroad works

Frequently asked questions

Here you will find the most common questions and answers about international debt collection.

Is debt collection more expensive abroad?

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Yes, it is generally more expensive to pursue debt collection cases abroad. We always ensure that you feel comfortable and give your approval before we proceed with anything that generates costs in your international case. Contact us for more information about pricing for the country in which you need our help.

Can I get help with debt collection outside Sweden?

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Yes, you can get help with debt collection outside sweden. Marginalen Inkasso offers international debt recovery services through partnerships with local agencies and legal experts in different countries. The process varies depending on local laws, but professional collectors can help negotiate payments, send legal notices, and take necessary legal action to recover debts efficiently.

At Marginalen Inkasso, we have a vast network of global partners to ensure that you, as our client, receive the most effective debt collection process possible.

If you need assistance with cross-border debt collection, feel free to contact us for expert support.

How does processes of invoice reminders work in different countries?

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The process of sending invoice reminders varies across countries due to differences in legal regulations, business practices, and cultural norms. However, most systems follow a similar structure:

  • Initial Reminder: Typically sent shortly after the due date, this reminder is often a friendly notification informing the customer of the overdue payment. In some countries, businesses send reminders before the due date as a courtesy.
  • Final Reminder/Demand Letter: This step often includes a stronger warning about potential legal action. In some countries, such as Sweden, businesses may escalate the case to a debt collection agency (Inkasso) at this stage.
  • Debt Collection & Legal Action: If the invoice remains unpaid, it may be forwarded to a debt collection agency or legal proceedings may begin. Countries have different enforcement mechanisms — France and Italy, for instance, have strict consumer protection laws, while the US relies heavily on credit reporting agencies to apply pressure

If you need a more detailed description of the process for your specific case, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

What laws apply to debt collection abroad?

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Collecting a debt abroad can be complicated because each country has its own laws and regulations. As a general rule, debt collection must comply with the legislation of the country where the debtor (the person who owes money) is located. This means that both legal measures and the debt collection process itself can vary greatly depending on the country in question.

What is the difference between international debt collection and regular debt collection?

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The rules for debt collection often vary between countries. Within the EU, there are common directives that govern much of the process, while completely different laws and practices apply outside the union. Thanks to our broad network of debt collection agencies, we can in most cases help our customers wherever in the world the need arises – both in assessing the case and, if desired, pursuing it further.

In which countries can international debt collection be used?

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We offer debt collection in most countries around the world. Contact us to discuss your specific international debt collection needs and the options available.

Can I track my debt collection cases with you somewhere?

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Yes! In our customer portal, you can follow all your debt collection cases in Sweden and abroad at any time. There you will also find statistics and reports that may be useful. You can also use the messaging function to contact your case handler if you need to ask a question or discuss your case.

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Inkasso AB Marginalen

Here you'll find information and contact details.

Address

Adolf Fredriks kyrkogata 8
111 37 Stockholm
Sweden

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