➡ 2024 UPDATE
Sweden does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. Although some remote workers use a tourist visa or visa-free stay to work as digital nomads, this is not officially permitted. Non-EU citizens must be employed by a Swedish company, have Swedish clients, or start a business in Sweden to qualify for a work permit. The closest option available is the self-employment visa, which allows you to work independently provided you have engagements with Swedish clients.
Nomad Visa Sweden 2024
Digital nomads interested in spending time in Sweden have several options tailored to their lifestyle. Initially, if your plan is to stay in Sweden and the broader Schengen zone for less than 90 days, you may enter using a tourist visa. This visa does not permit employment with Swedish entities or local clients, but it does allow you to continue working remotely for a company based outside of Sweden. Importantly, while on this visa, you aren’t required to report income or pay local taxes in Sweden.
For those who are self-employed, an alternative is to establish a business within Sweden. This route can lead to eligibility for a two-year residency permit, which can be renewed. To qualify, applicants must prove they have business engagements with Swedish clients and possess adequate funds to sustain themselves upon arrival.
Who Can Apply for a Tourist Visa for Sweden?
Obtaining a tourist visa is generally the simplest method for digital nomads to explore Sweden. This visa restricts your stay in the Schengen area to 90 days within any 180-day period, ensuring short but frequent visits are possible.
Swedish Self-Employment Visa for Digital Nomads
For those who operate their own business or work independently, and who also secure Swedish clientele, a self-employment visa may be applicable. This visa allows you to reside and conduct business in Sweden, catering to both local and international clients. Initially valid for up to two years, this visa is renewable, provided you plan to reside in Sweden for at least one year at the time of application.
Visa Requirements
The self-employment visa comes with stringent requirements, including the need to register your business in Sweden and fulfill local tax obligations. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate:
- Considerable experience in their professional field.
- Previous experience in managing a business.
- Executive responsibility within the business.
- A viable business plan and budget for operations in Sweden.
- Proficiency in Swedish or English.
- Established local clients, customers, or business networks.
- Sufficient financial resources to support themselves and any dependents.
Minimum Income Requirements
While there’s no stipulated minimum income for businesses in Sweden, financial stability is crucial. Applicants must show they can financially support themselves and any dependents. Current minimum financial requirements for a two-year visa are:
- SEK 200,000 (approx. US$19,505) for the primary applicant.
- SEK 100,000 (approx. US$9,752) for a partner.
- SEK 50,000 (approx. US$4,876) for each dependent child.
Tax obligations in Sweden include national and municipal income taxes, social security contributions, and VAT. National income tax rates vary from 0% to 20% based on your income, while the typical municipal tax rate is around 32%. Social security tax stands at 31.42%, and VAT is generally set at 25%, though reductions apply to certain goods and services. Some foreign income may also be tax-exempt under double taxation agreements.
How to Apply for a Swedish Self-Employment Visa as a Digital Nomad
Applying for a Swedish Self-Employment Visa offers digital nomads the opportunity to establish and develop their business within Sweden. The application process varies slightly depending on your location.
Application Process
If you are located in South Korea, Japan, or Iran, you can conveniently apply online through Sweden’s e-service portal. Applicants from other countries must apply in person at a Swedish embassy or consulate. This ensures that all required documentation is submitted correctly and allows for any necessary interviews or additional information requests.
Required Documentation
A comprehensive set of documents is necessary to support your visa application:
- A valid passport for the duration of the visa, including copies of pages showing personal data, photo, signature, passport number, issuing country, and validity. Include pages showing residency permissions if you reside outside your home country.
- Bank statements or certificates demonstrating sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family during your stay in Sweden.
- Financial evidence showing capital available to invest in and sustain your business, accompanied by a detailed budget forecast.
- Registration certificate for your business in Sweden, or a contract for purchasing an existing business.
- Copies of contracts with customers, suppliers, and lease agreements for business premises.
- A proficiency certificate in Swedish or English, if applicable.
- Academic qualifications and professional certifications relevant to your business.
- References or testimonials from previous employers or clients illustrating your experience and suitability for running your business.
- A criminal record extract, certified with an apostille, proving you have no criminal history in your country of residence.
- Comprehensive medical insurance coverage valid in Sweden.
All documents must be translated into Swedish or English by an authorized translator.
Visa Fees and Costs
The visa application process involves several fees, payable at the time of application:
- A primary application fee of SEK 2,200 (approximately US$215).
- An additional fee of SEK 1,500 (approximately US$150) for each adult family member accompanying you.
- A fee of SEK 750 (approximately US$75) for each child under the age of 18. These fees are non-refundable, even if the visa application is not successful.
Visa Processing Timeline
The processing time for a Swedish Self-Employment Visa can range from one to three months, depending on the submission location and the completeness of your application. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to accommodate any delays.
This visa not only allows you to establish a base in Sweden but also to explore and integrate into the Swedish business environment, providing a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial activities.