Sweden Self-Employment Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you a non-EU citizen looking to start or run your own business in Sweden? The Sweden Self-Employment Visa, officially known as a residence permit for self-employed individuals, allows entrepreneurs to live and work in Sweden while managing their own company. This guide covers everything you need to know about the eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and other essential details to help you successfully apply for this visa.
Eligibility Criteria for the Sweden Self-Employment Visa
To apply for a residence permit as a self-employed person in Sweden, you must meet several requirements. First, you need to have significant experience in the field relevant to your business. This includes prior experience running a business and proficiency in either Swedish or English, which is crucial for conducting business locally. You must own at least 50% of the company and be actively involved in its management.
Financial stability is another key factor. You must show proof of having enough funds to support yourself and your family for a minimum of two years. This typically means SEK 200,000 for yourself, SEK 100,000 for your spouse, and SEK 50,000 for each child. In addition, you must submit a detailed business budget and demonstrate that your business has the potential to succeed in Sweden. The Swedish Migration Agency will evaluate your plan and conduct a financial viability assessment.
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay, and the application fee is SEK 2,200.
Required Documents for a Sweden Self-Employment Visa
The documents you must submit depend on whether you apply online or through a Swedish embassy or consulate. For online applications, you will need scanned copies of your passport showing your personal data, photo, signature, and validity. Bank certificates are required to prove that you can support yourself and your family, along with documents proving you have sufficient funds to buy or operate your business.
Company documents, such as a registration certificate, ownership proof, and business purchase receipts, should be included. You must also submit business contracts with customers and suppliers, rental agreements for business premises, financial statements including balance sheets and profit/loss reports, language certificates, and qualifications or experience records.
If you’re applying through a consulate or embassy, you must fill out the official application form (Form 124011) and submit all the same supporting documents. Payment of the application fee will also be handled at the embassy.
All documents must be in Swedish or English. If not, they must be translated by an authorized translator and submitted along with the original versions.
Sweden Self-Employment Visa Duration and Validity
The initial residence permit is granted for up to two years, depending on the validity of your passport. Before it expires, you may apply for an extension. You must show that you are still running your business and financially independent. After two years of legal residence under this permit, you may become eligible for permanent residency if you are still actively running the business, are financially self-sufficient, and have no legal or financial issues.
How to Apply for a Sweden Self-Employment Visa
You can apply online through the Swedish Migration Agency’s e-service portal, or submit a paper application at your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate. The online method is faster and more efficient. To apply online, gather all required documents, complete the digital form, upload your documents, pay the application fee, and submit your application.
If applying offline, complete the residence permit application form for self-employed persons (Form 124011), attach all supporting documents, submit everything to the Swedish embassy, and pay the required fee as instructed.
Application Fees and Processing Time
The fee for online applications is SEK 2,000. Non-online application fees may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. Processing time typically takes about four weeks, but it can vary depending on your location and case.
After Submitting Your Application
You may be asked to show your passport in person. If approved, you will receive a residence permit card. If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal within three weeks of receiving the decision.
Family Members
Your spouse or partner and children under 18 can apply for residence permits to accompany you. If your residence permit is valid for more than six months, family members over 16 years old are eligible to work in Sweden. You must provide proof of your financial ability to support them during their stay.
Extensions and Permanent Residency
Before your current permit expires, you must apply for an extension to continue your stay. If you meet all the conditions, such as running your business actively and having no financial or legal problems, you may be granted permanent residency after two years.
The Sweden Self-Employment Visa is an excellent opportunity for international entrepreneurs who wish to start or manage a business in Sweden. With proper planning, thorough documentation, and a solid business strategy, you can successfully obtain a residence permit and even build a long-term future in Sweden. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official Swedish Migration Agency website or seek professional guidance.
Ready to start your journey as an entrepreneur in Sweden? Begin your application today.