Sweden Self-Employment Visa

Written by Mike Arnold Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 12, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

Those who are non-EU citizens and want to start or run their own business in Sweden can apply for a Self-Employment Visa.

However, this is not known as a self-employment visa but rather a residence permit specifically tailored for people who have their own businesses. This is an important legal distinction to make, but the concept pretty much remains the same.

This permit allows you to live and work in Sweden while managing your own company. It's a great option for both experienced business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a new chapter of their life in Sweden, experiencing everything it has to offer.

 

Eligibility criteria for Sweden Self-Employment Visa

In order to apply for a residence permit in Sweden while running your own business, there are a few strict criteria you need to meet. They are as follows, as outlined by the official Swedish Migration Website.

Experience and knowledge

• You need to showcase considerable experience in the industry or field where you plan to operate your business. This could include past employment, entrepreneurial ventures, or relevant training.
• You should also have prior experience running your own business, demonstrating your ability to manage and operate a company successfully.
• Proficiency in either Swedish or English is also essential. If your business involves frequent interaction with Swedish customers or suppliers, you'll need a high level of proficiency in Swedish.

Business ownership and management

• You must provide evidence that you are the person actively running the company and have executive responsibility for its operations. This could include ownership documents, management agreements, or other proof of your active involvement.
• You must also own at least 50% of the company to demonstrate your significant stake and commitment to its success.

Financial requirements

• You need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any accompanying family members for at least two years. The required amounts are:
  • SEK 200,000 (approximately €17,700) for the main applicant.
  • SEK 100,000 (approximately €8,800) for your accompanying spouse or partner.
  • SEK 50,000 (approximately €4,400) for each accompanying child.
• You must also provide a plausible budget for your business, outlining your projected income and expenses.
• If you're purchasing an existing business, you'll need to show that you have sufficient funds to cover the purchase price and any anticipated investments or operational costs.

Business viability

• You need to demonstrate that your business has the potential to be successful in Sweden. This could include evidence of customer contacts, a network of suppliers, or a well-developed marketing strategy.
• The Swedish Migration Agency will conduct a financial assessment of your business plans to evaluate their feasibility and potential for generating sustainable income.

Other requirements

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least the duration of your intended stay in Sweden.
• Application fee: You'll need to pay the application fee, which is usually SEK 2,200 (approximately €195). You can find the complete list of fees here.

The first step of applying for a residence permit is making sure all these criteria are met, and you're set up for success in terms of having the right, properly completed proof and documentation.

What documentation is needed for a Sweden Self-Employment Visa?

As with any visa application, applying for a Sweden residence permit requires careful preparation and several documents. The exact documents you need will depend on how you apply – online or through a Swedish embassy or consulate.

Applying through the Online e-Service Portal

• Passport copies: Provide copies of the pages in your passport showing your personal data, photo, signature, passport number, issuing country, validity period, and any permits to reside in countries other than your home country.
• Bank certificates: Submit bank certificates demonstrating sufficient funds to support yourself and your family for two years. The required amounts are SEK 200,000 for the main applicant, SEK 100,000 for your spouse, and SEK 50,000 per child.
• Proof of funds for business: Provide bank certificates showing you have enough money to purchase the company (if applicable) and cover the costs and investments outlined in your business plan. The rates for this are SEK 200,000 for you, SEK 100,000 for a spouse, and then SEK 50,000 per child.
• Company documents: If you've purchased or intend to buy a company, include the purchase contract. If you've already registered a company in Sweden, provide the registration certificate, trading company agreement or share register, and proof of payment for the company (if purchased).
• Business documentation: Include copies of contracts with customers, suppliers, and premises, as well as the two most recent annual accounts or financial statements if the company has been in operation. Also, provide a balance sheet and profit and loss statement for the current financial year up to the previous month.
• Language proficiency: Submit a copy of a course certificate or other proof demonstrating your knowledge of Swedish or English at a relevant level.
• Qualifications and experience: Include copies of qualification certificates from your studies and employer's certificates from previous employers.
• Company registration: If you own or have owned companies outside of Sweden, provide their registration certificates.

Documents for non-online application

If you cannot apply online, you will need to fill out the "Application for a Swedish residence permit for self-employed persons" form (number 124011), which you can find here.

This form will indicate the specific documents you need to enclose. Contact the embassy or consulate-general before submitting your application for further guidance.

Important considerations

• All documents not originally in Swedish or English should be translated into one of these languages by an authorised translator.
• Submit both the original documents and their translations.

Remember, thorough and accurate documentation is crucial for a successful application. Because of this, you may want to seek professional help to ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements.

What is the duration and validity of the Sweden Self-Employment Visa

• If your business does well and you meet the requirements, the Self-Employment Visa can lead to permanent residency in Sweden.
• Your first visa: This usually lasts up to two years, but it can't be longer than your passport is valid.
• Extending your visa: To stay longer, you can apply for an extension before your current one expires. You'll need to show you're still meeting the visa requirements, like being financially independent through your business, actively running your company, and having no major debts. You also need to have lived in Sweden for at least half the time your previous permit was valid.
• Permanent residency: After two years on a Self-Employment Visa, you can apply for permanent residency before your current visa ends. Besides the extension requirements, you'll also need to show you're still actively running your business, can support yourself financially, and are living a law-abiding life in Sweden.

With this in mind, the Self-Employment Visa isn't just about starting a business – it could also be your way to make Sweden your permanent home.

How to apply for a Sweden Residence Permit for people who have their own business

Applying for the Sweden Self-Employment Visa primarily involves an online process, making it convenient and efficient for applicants. However, if you're unable to apply online, there's an alternative route through the Swedish embassy or consulate-general.

Online application (E-service)

1. Gather documents: Compile all the necessary documents as outlined in the "Documentation" section, ensuring they are complete, translated (if required), and ready for uploading.
2. Access the e-service: Visit the Swedish Migration Agency website and navigate to the e-service for self-employed individuals.
3. Complete the application: Fill out the online application form, providing accurate and detailed information about yourself, your business, and your financial situation.
4. Attach documents: Upload scanned or photographed copies of all the required supporting documents.
5. Pay the application fee: Pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card. These are SEK 1,500 (approximately €130) for adults and SEK 750 (approximately €70) for children.
6. Submit your application: Once you've completed the form, attached all documents, and paid the fee, submit your application electronically.

Alternative application (non-online)

If you're unable to apply online, follow these steps:

1. Fill in the application form: Complete the "Application for a Swedish residence permit for self-employed persons" form (number 124011).
2. Gather documents: Compile all the necessary documents as indicated on the application form.
3. Submit application: Submit the completed form and supporting documents to a Swedish embassy or consulate-general. If applying from outside your home country, apply at the embassy or consulate-general closest to your current location.
4. Pay the application fee: Pay the fee when submitting your application. Contact the embassy or consulate for the exact fee amount, which may differ from the online application fee.

Application costs for the Sweden Self-Employment Visa

Applying for the Sweden Self-Employment Visa involves a fee you'll need to cover as part of the application process.

• Online application fee: The application fee for online applications is generally 2,000 SEK (approximately €180).
• Non-online application fee: The fee for non-online applications submitted at a Swedish embassy or consulate-general may differ. Contact the specific embassy or consulate for detailed fee information.

Please note: These fees are subject to change. It's crucial to always check the official for the most up-to-date and accurate information on application fees.

It usually takes about four weeks to get a decision about whether or not your application is successful.

Other important things to know

Beyond the core eligibility criteria, application process, and fees, several other crucial aspects warrant your attention when considering the Sweden Self-Employment Visa.

After you have submitted your application

• Show your passport: The Swedish Migration Agency will need to verify your passport before deciding. They will contact you with instructions on how and when to show your passport, either in person at an embassy/consulate or digitally.
• Residence Permit card: If your application is approved, you will receive a residence permit card, which serves as proof of your legal residency in Sweden. You might need to provide your fingerprints and photograph at an embassy/consulate or a Migration Agency service centre.
• Receiving the decision: You'll be notified by email when a decision has been made. The decision itself will be sent to the embassy/consulate you specified or your home address in Sweden (if you applied online).
• If the application is rejected: You have the right to appeal the decision within three weeks of receiving the notification.

Permit for family members

• Your spouse/partner and unmarried children under 18 can apply for residence permits with you or separately.
• If your permit is valid for over six months, family members over 16 can also get a work permit.
• You must demonstrate the ability to support your family members financially.

Extending a permit

• You must apply for an extension before your current permit expires to continue living and working in Sweden.
• You can apply online or using the paper form "Application for a Swedish residence permit for self-employed persons – Extension" (number 125011B).
• Additional requirements apply, including proof of financial self-sufficiency, active business management, compliance with regulations, and absence of debts.

Requirements for a permanent residence permit

• After two years on a self-employed residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit.
• Additional requirements include demonstrating financial self-sufficiency, orderly life, and fulfilling the extension requirements.

Other considerations

• You can only work within your own company while on this visa.
• If you cannot apply online, you can submit a paper application at a Swedish embassy or consulate-general.
• Always consult the official Swedish Migration Agency website for the most up-to-date information, or use a visa consultancy service that can provide the best advice.

Talk to a visa consultant

This residence permit, which some people refer to as a self-employment visa in Sweden, is your chance to turn your business dreams into reality in a country that values innovation and entrepreneurship.

But the path to success involves navigating a complex visa process and establishing a thriving business in a new environment.

An experienced immigration consultant can be your trusted partner, offering personalised guidance and support every step of the way. From crafting a compelling business plan to ensuring your application is optimised, helping you maximise your chances of success.

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