Long-stay visas (Type D)
Swedish Self-Employed / Own Business Residence Permit
A residence permit for a non-EU entrepreneur who will run their own business in Sweden and can demonstrate the necessary experience and capital.
Important information
- Issued by
- Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)
- Own capital
- At least SEK 200,000 for yourself
- Plus SEK 100,000 for an accompanying spouse and SEK 50,000 per child; must be your own funds, loans not normally accepted.
- Ownership
- You must own at least 51% of the business
- Duration
- Up to 2 years, renewable (not beyond passport validity)
- Application fee
- SEK 2,000 (adult applicant)
Who it's for
Non-EU/EEA nationals with genuine industry and business-management experience who intend to establish, own and actively run a company in Sweden.
Requirements
- Valid passport
- At least SEK 200,000 of your own capital (plus SEK 100,000 for a spouse and SEK 50,000 per child)
- Ownership of at least 51% of the business
- Good experience in the industry and in running your own business
- Established customer and supplier contacts / network in Sweden
- A credible, well-founded budget and business plan
- Relevant knowledge of Swedish or English (strong Swedish where many local contacts are needed)
What you can do
- Live in Sweden and operate your own business for the permit period
- Bring accompanying family members
- Extend the permit and, over time, work toward permanent residence
How to apply
Apply through Migrationsverket's e-service or on a paper form submitted to a Swedish embassy or consulate. You normally apply from outside Sweden and must present your passport and give biometrics.
The Agency reviews your finances, experience and business plan; a first permit runs for up to two years.
Documents
- Passport copies
- Proof of your own capital (bank statements)
- Business registration and any partnership agreements
- Contracts with customers and suppliers
- Balance sheets, profit/loss statements and annual accounts (as applicable)
- Budget and business plan
- Language certificates and relevant references
Frequently asked questions
No. Sweden has no golden-visa scheme. This route requires you to actively run a business you majority-own, and the capital must be your own working funds, not a passive investment.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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