Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Kungälv

About Golden Visa Law in Kungälv, Sweden

The term Golden Visa is commonly used in many countries to describe residence-by-investment schemes. Sweden does not operate a labelled Golden Visa program similar to some other EU countries. Instead, Sweden offers a range of residence permit routes that may be of interest to investors and high-net-worth individuals - for example work permits, permits for self-employment, start-up related permits and family reunification. All national residence permit decisions are made by the Swedish Migration Agency. Local municipalities such as Kungälv do not issue immigration permits, but local rules and practical requirements affect living, working and operating a business in Kungälv.

This guide explains how Swedish immigration rules intersect with local law in Kungälv, and why you may need legal help when pursuing a residence permit tied to investment or business activity.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Pursuing residency in Sweden through business or investment involves legal, tax and administrative steps that benefit from professional guidance. A lawyer can help in several common situations:

- Preparing a strong application for a residence permit for self-employment or a work-based permit - including business plans, contracts and proof of sustainable operation.

- Structuring investments and company formation to meet immigration and tax rules - for example choosing between a private limited company - aktiebolag - or other business forms.

- Navigating family reunification applications if you want relatives to join you in Sweden.

- Resolving adverse decisions - lawyers can draft appeal submissions or represent you in administrative courts.

- Advising on tax residency, reporting obligations and double taxation - especially when assets remain abroad.

- Handling property transactions, local planning issues, permits and due diligence for business premises in Kungälv.

- Ensuring compliance with employment and labor law if you will hire staff locally.

Local Laws Overview

While immigration law is national, several local and regional laws and rules are relevant to anyone moving to Kungälv for investment or business reasons:

- Municipal registration - Once you intend to stay long-term, you must register with the Swedish Tax Agency - Skatteverket - to be registered in the population register - folkbokföring - and to obtain a personal identity number - personnummer. Many services require this number.

- Local taxation - Income tax in Sweden includes municipal income tax. Tax rates vary by municipality. Corporations pay corporate tax on profits and there are rules on VAT and payroll taxes for businesses operating in Kungälv.

- Business formation and permits - Company registration is national, through the Swedish Companies Registration Office - Bolagsverket - but local zoning, building permits - bygglov - and commercial licences are handled by Kungälv municipality. Opening physical offices or changing premises may trigger local permits and inspections.

- Employment and labor law - Swedish employment law and collective bargaining agreements apply. Hiring employees in Kungälv requires adherence to rules on contracts, work hours, social security contributions and workplace safety.

- Healthcare and social insurance - Regional healthcare is provided by Region Västra Götaland. To access public healthcare and social benefits you must be registered with Försäkringskassan and, normally, have a personnummer.

- Property purchases - Foreigners can buy property in Sweden without a residence permit, but purchase alone does not grant residency. Local planning and environmental rules can affect use of property bought in or near Kungälv.

- Environmental and commercial regulation - Depending on the business activity, environmental permits or local health and safety approvals may be needed from municipal authorities or regional agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Golden Visa in Sweden - can I get residency by buying property in Kungälv?

Sweden does not offer a Golden Visa that grants residency solely for purchasing property. Buying real estate in Kungälv does not of itself create a right to stay. Residence permits are granted under defined grounds such as employment, self-employment, study or family reunification.

Can I apply for a residence permit based on investment or starting a business?

Yes - you can apply for a residence permit as a self-employed person or for work if you can show a viable business and that you will support yourself through the business. The Swedish Migration Agency evaluates business plans, finances and whether the applicant will run the business full-time. Legal and tax advice is recommended to structure the application.

How long do immigration decisions typically take?

Processing times vary depending on the type of permit and complexity of the case. Simple cases may be decided in a few months; more complex business-related cases can take longer - sometimes several months. Timeframes change, so plan ahead and account for potential delays.

Can my family join me in Sweden if I receive a business-related residence permit?

Spouses or registered partners and underage children may be eligible for family reunification. Family members usually need to apply for residence permits and show ties to the main applicant. Financial and housing requirements can apply.

Do I need a Swedish lawyer or can I use an international advisor?

A lawyer experienced in Swedish immigration, tax and company law is valuable. Local knowledge of Swedish administrative practice and applicable laws is important. Using a local Swedish lawyer or a firm with Swedish-qualified lawyers is usually best, especially for appeals or complex tax planning.

What taxes will I face if I move to Kungälv?

Tax residency in Sweden depends on your ties and length of stay. Residents pay tax on worldwide income; non-residents pay tax on Swedish-source income. Municipal income tax applies in Kungälv, and businesses face corporate tax, VAT and employer contributions. Consult a tax advisor early to understand obligations and optimize structure within Swedish law.

How do I register and access local services in Kungälv?

After obtaining the right residence permit, register with Skatteverket to obtain a personnummer. Once registered, you can access healthcare through Region Västra Götaland, social insurance via Försäkringskassan and other municipal services from Kungälv kommun. Registration is critical for many everyday activities.

Can I work for a Swedish company while holding a business-related permit?

Work rights depend on the specific permit. Some self-employment permits restrict employment for others, while other permit categories allow both self-employment and employment. Check the conditions of your permit and consult a lawyer if you plan multiple activities.

What happens if my residence application is refused?

You have the right to appeal decisions from the Swedish Migration Agency to an administrative court. Appeals have strict deadlines and formal requirements. A lawyer can help prepare an appeal and represent you in court proceedings.

How should I choose a lawyer or advisor in Kungälv or nearby?

Look for lawyers with experience in Swedish immigration law, tax law and business formation. Verify qualifications, ask for references, check experience with business-related residence permits and appeals, and confirm fee structures. Local knowledge of Kungälv municipal procedures is an advantage.

Additional Resources

For authoritative information and official procedures, consult Swedish national authorities and local bodies. Relevant organizations and agencies include:

- The Swedish Migration Agency - the national authority responsible for residence permits and decisions.

- The Swedish Tax Agency - Skatteverket - for registration, personnummer and tax matters.

- The Swedish Companies Registration Office - Bolagsverket - for company formation and registration rules.

- Försäkringskassan - the Swedish Social Insurance Agency - for social security and benefits.

- Region Västra Götaland - for regional healthcare information and patient registration.

- Kungälv kommun - for municipal services, local planning, building permits and business-related local requirements.

- Administrative courts - for appeals against migration decisions.

- Local law firms and tax advisors specialising in immigration, corporate and tax law - for practical legal assistance and representation.

Next Steps

Follow these practical steps if you are considering a residence permit in Sweden related to investment or business and plan to live in Kungälv:

- Clarify your objective - define whether you seek residence through self-employment, work, study or family reunification. Buying property alone is not a residence ground.

- Gather documentation - prepare business plans, financial statements, identification and any employment contracts. Early organisation will speed the legal process.

- Contact a qualified Swedish lawyer or advisor - get an initial consultation to evaluate the strength of your case, tax consequences and the best application strategy.

- Plan finances and taxes - consult a tax advisor familiar with Swedish tax residency rules and corporate structures to avoid unexpected liabilities.

- Register locally after permission - once you have the correct permit, register with Skatteverket to get a personnummer and then register with local authorities to access healthcare and municipal services.

- Prepare for contingencies - know the appeal process and timelines should an initial application be rejected.

Remember that immigration law is complex and fact-specific. This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. For personalised legal guidance tailored to your circumstances, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or legal adviser in Sweden.