Starting a company in a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming. If you’re from outside the EU and envision launching your own business in Sweden, one of the first and most important steps is securing a residence and work permit for self-employment (investor visa). At Askari Juristbyrå, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs to navigate this complex process – turning your business dream into a reality.

Whether you’re looking to open a café, work as a freelance consultant, or build a tech startup, getting the right permit is essential. The self-employment permit (investor visa) is designed specifically for non-EU nationals who plan to run and actively participate in their own business in Sweden. But the application process involves much more than just filling out a form. You need to prove that your business idea is viable, that you have relevant experience, and that your finances are in order – among other things.

What is a Self-Employment Residence Permit?

If you’re not an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen and plan to start and operate your own business in Sweden, you must apply for a residence permit for self-employed persons.

This is not the same as a regular work permit – which applies to people being employed by a company (work permit due to employment). Instead, it’s designed specifically for entrepreneurs who will run their own business.

This permit allows you to live in Sweden and operate your business legally. It is typically granted for two years and can be extended or converted into permanent residence if your business is sustainable. If you can prove that the business is well and sound, by the time you must apply for the extension you may also apply for permanent residency. If you can prove good finances and a prosperous business.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
• Intend to start and run your own business in Sweden
• Be personally involved in operating the business (not just an investor), i.e you must be the person who has the main responsibility to run the company
• Have a well-developed business plan
• Show that your business will be financially viable
• Have relevant industry experience or education
• Poses sufficient start-up capital
• Be able to support yourself financially for at least the first two years
• Provide language certificates displaying your efficiency in the English  language and/or Swedish.

Requirements to Qualify

The Swedish Migration Agency assesses several key areas:

1. Business Plan

You’ll need a detailed business plan that includes:

• Your products/services
• Market analysis and marketing plans
• Competitive landscape
• Operational strategy
• Financial projections and budgeting

At Askari Juristbyrå, we work with you to develop or refine a solid business plan that meets the Swedish Migration Agency’s requirements.

2. Financial Sustainability

You must show that your business will generate enough income to support you. This usually requires:

• At least SEK 200,000 in personal funds for yourself (as a backup fund for the first two years, i.e money that you can derive income from).
• If you have a co-applicant spouse, you must have an additional 100 000 SEK.
• If you have a co-applicant child you must have an additional 50 000 SEK.
• Realistic financial projections
• Evidence of funding sources i.e bank statements.

3. Skills and Experience

The Migration Agency prefers applicants who have:

• Prior business experience
• Education or training relevant to the industry
• Understanding of the Swedish business environment

4. Language Proficiency

You should have good knowledge of Swedish or English, which will help you manage your business, communicate with authorities, and serve customers.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s what you can expect when applying – and how Askari Juristbyrå (lawfirm) supports you along the way:

Step 1: Preparation

We help you gather and organize the required documents:

• Business plan
• Financial proof
• Passport copy
• Education and work experience records

Step 2: Application Submission

The application is submitted online to the Swedish Migration Agency – before arriving in Sweden. Exceptions exist, but only under special circumstances.

Step 3: Fee and Processing

A government fee of around SEK 2,000 is paid. Processing time can take 6 to 15 months, so it’s essential to plan ahead.

Step 4: Decision

If approved, you will receive a residence permit card allowing you to live and run your business in Sweden.

 

After You Arrive in Sweden

Once granted the permit, you must:

• Register your business with the Swedish Tax Agency
• Apply for F-tax (business tax)
• Keep proper accounting records
• Actively run your business

It is also essential to demonstrate that your business generates income and that you are not dependent on public assistance.

Types of Business-Related Permits

There are of course scenarios whereby you have ties to Sweden, a friend or relative with whom you might want to start a business. If you start a business with a person who resides in Sweden and has a Swedish person number, the application process via Bolagsverket is simplified i.e saving you time.

If you purchase a business that is already in existence, you must own a minimum of 51 % i.e be a majority owner, in essence owning 51 % and upwards to prove that you are in fact the majority owner. This is a crucial aspect which the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) will take into consideration.

In Sweden we have Aktiebolag (AB) in English, limited liability i.e  a business with its own legal identity, we have Enskild firma (sole trader), and Handelsbolag (sole trader where there are two owner.

 

 

Can My Family Join Me?

Yes, Your spouse/partner and children under 18 can be included in the application and receive residence permits as well. Spouses are typically allowed to work in Sweden. The Swedish Migration Agency accepts applications for family members who seek residence permit as co-applicants.

What Happens When You Extend Your Permit?

To renew your permit after two years, you must prove that:

• Your business is active and growing
• You have supported yourself through the company
• The business has long-term potential

If you can prove that the business runs successfully after two years you may even apply for a permanent residency (permanent uppehållstillstånd).

How we can help you avoid hurdles and other problems

At Askari Juristbyrå, we’ve seen it all – from missed deadlines to rejected applications due to vague business plans or insufficient documentation. Here’s how we help:

✅ We review and optimize your business plan
✅ We guide your financial projections
✅ We double-check all paperwork to avoid delays
✅ We represent you in communication with Swedish authorities
✅ We stay by your side from application to arrival

Why Choose Askari Juristbyrå?

We specialize in helping entrepreneurs and international professionals navigate Swedish immigration law. Whether you are launching a tech startup, opening a café, or starting a consultancy, we tailor our service to your goals. If you have questions or wish to have a initial conversation we may provide you with this service free of charge, simply to assess the circumstances prior to submitting an application.

🟢 Expert knowledge in immigration and business law
🟢 Multilingual team that understands your background
🟢 Transparent pricing and clear communication
🟢 Proven success with clients from around the world

Let’s Build Your Future in Sweden – Together

Applying for a self-employment residence permit in Sweden can be complex – but with the right legal partner, it becomes a manageable and free of unnecessary hurdles.

At Askari Juristbyrå, we’re not just legal advisors – we’re your long-term partners in building a successful life and business in Sweden.

📞 Book your consultation today
📩 Contact us via info@askarijuristbyra.se or call us on 08-58625862  You can also book a consultation via our website: Askari Juristbyrå – Trygg Och Professionell Vägledning Inom Migrationsrätt

Let’s turn your business idea into reality.

More information:

Ansök om uppehållstillstånd för egen företagare i Sverige – Migrationsverket

Starta och registrera aktiebolag – verksamt.se