Sweden self-employed residence permit in 2026
Migrationsverket publishes a residence permit for people who will run their own business in Sweden rather than a generic "startup visa".
The applicant must have relevant industry/business experience, credible plans, customer contacts or networks, and real influence over the business. Where ownership is shared, the applicant generally needs at least 51% ownership and decisive responsibility.
The current personal maintenance funds for two years are at least SEK 200,000 for the applicant, SEK 100,000 for an accompanying spouse/partner, and SEK 50,000 for each accompanying child. Separate own funds must also cover the business's expected costs, investments and any purchase price.
A first permit can be granted for up to two years. A self-employed permit holder who has had and met the conditions for the permit and run the business in Sweden for at least two years can apply for permanent residence when extending, subject to sustainable self-support and the other settlement conditions.
Official guidance: Migrationsverket self-employed permit and extension rules.
Related: highly qualified job search, permanent residence, remote work, Sweden hub.
Official and supporting sources
- Official Sweden source 1government · accessed 2026-09-21
- Official Sweden source 2government · accessed 2026-09-21