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Sweden does not operate a formal residence-by-investment program in the way some countries do. There is no automatic visa or residence permit granted solely for buying property or making a passive financial investment. However, non-EU/EEA nationals who want to live in Sweden on the basis of business activity can apply for residence permits related to self-employment, company formation, or employment in a business they control. Östersund, as a municipality in Sweden, is subject to national immigration rules administered by the Swedish Migration Agency. Local factors - such as municipal business conditions, local permits, and availability of services - can affect how a business-based move works in practice.
Residence-by-investment-like moves involve multiple legal areas at once - immigration, corporate, tax, property, employment, and municipal regulation. A lawyer can help you assess eligibility, prepare a business plan that meets immigration expectations, structure an investment in a tax-efficient and compliant way, and handle permit applications and appeals. Common situations where legal help is particularly valuable include:
- Preparing an application for a residence permit tied to self-employment or company leadership, including drafting a clear business plan and financial forecasts.
- Structuring the ownership of a company or investments to meet Swedish legal and tax rules while protecting personal liability.
- Ensuring compliance with Swedish employment law and collective agreement salary standards if you plan to employ staff.
- Dealing with municipal permits, zoning or commercial leases in Östersund, and other local regulatory matters.
- Navigating family reunification issues if you want dependents to join you, and preparing for appeals if an application is refused.
Key aspects of Swedish law that are relevant to someone considering residence based on investment or business activity in Östersund include:
- Immigration rules are national. The Swedish Migration Agency handles applications for residence permits for self-employed persons, entrepreneurs, and employees. Östersund municipal authorities do not grant residence permits but are relevant for business setup and local compliance.
- There is no visa or permit that grants residence solely for buying property. Property ownership does not create immigration rights.
- Self-employed and entrepreneur permits require a credible, viable business plan, adequate funding to run the business, and sufficient personal means to support yourself. Authorities will assess the business viability and the applicant's ability to work in the business.
- Employment-related residence permits typically require the employer to meet Swedish salary and employment terms, including applicable collective agreements where relevant.
- Tax residence and income tax obligations are determined by the Swedish Tax Agency. Registering your address and tax status with the Tax Agency and the local population register is essential once you move.
- Company formation and registration follow national rules administered by the Swedish Companies Registration Office. Local rules in Östersund will affect business premises, zoning, and local permits.
- Social security, health care access, and parental benefits are administered via national agencies, with local offices and services available in Östersund once you are registered.
- Criminal record checks and general good-conduct requirements can influence certain permits, particularly if the proposed business involves regulated activities.
No. Purchasing property or making a passive investment does not by itself grant a residence permit. Residence permits tied to business activity require active entrepreneurship or employment in a Swedish company and a demonstrable plan that the business will be viable.
Common routes include applying for a residence permit as a self-employed person, applying for a work permit if you will be employed by a Swedish company, or forming a company and applying for permits linked to running that company. Each route has specific documentation and viability requirements.
You will typically need a detailed business plan, projected accounts and financing, proof of funds to establish and run the business and to support yourself, identification documents, and evidence that the business is lawful and viable. Exact requirements depend on your business model and personal circumstances.
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the case and current caseload at the Migration Agency. Simple cases may be decided in a few months, while more complex applications can take longer. Prepare for variable timelines and plan accordingly.
In many cases yes. Family members such as a spouse or registered partner and dependent children can apply for residence permits to join you. Family reunification rights and procedures differ by permit type and nationality, so check the specific requirements for your case.
Tax residency is determined by factors such as the length of stay and whether you have a permanent home or vital interests in Sweden. Registering your residence and income will trigger tax obligations if you meet the residency criteria. Consult a tax expert to understand timing and liabilities.
Sweden does not publish a single minimum investment figure for an entrepreneur permit. Instead, authorities look at whether the business is credible and whether you have sufficient funds to run it and support yourself. For work permits, employers must offer salaries that meet Swedish standards and applicable collective agreements.
Not always, but forming a Swedish company is a common and practical route. The Migration Agency will assess the structure and the applicant's role. If you are principal in a Swedish company and intend to run operations from Sweden, this structure is often appropriate.
After arrival you will need to register your address with the Swedish Tax Agency, apply for a personal identity number if eligible, register the company if applicable, secure local permits or business premises, and enroll with social insurance and health services. Östersund municipal offices can advise on local services and requirements.
If an application is refused you typically have the right to appeal the decision within a specified time frame. A lawyer with immigration experience can help prepare an appeal and any supporting evidence, and may advise on alternative routes or reapplication strategies.
Helpful institutions and bodies to consult include the national immigration authority, relevant national agencies for taxation and company registration, and local Östersund municipal offices for local business matters and permits. Look for reputable immigration lawyers in Sweden or local legal firms in Östersund with experience in immigration, corporate, and tax law. Business advisory services such as local chambers of commerce and municipal business development offices can also help with practical steps to set up and operate in Östersund.
1. Assess your objectives - Decide whether your main purpose is to run a business, work, or to relocate family members. This determines the most appropriate permit route.
2. Gather basic information - Compile identification documents, a draft business plan, proof of funds, and any prior business histories or contracts that support your application.
3. Consult a specialist - Arrange an initial consultation with an immigration lawyer or legal adviser experienced in Swedish business and immigration law. A lawyer can evaluate eligibility, identify risks, and help prepare a compliant application.
4. Contact relevant authorities - Check requirements with the national immigration authority and with Östersund municipal offices for local permits and practical matters once you arrive.
5. Prepare and submit the application - With legal support, finalize your business plan, financial documentation, and permit forms. Track processing times and be ready to provide additional information if requested.
6. Plan your move - If the permit is granted, follow through with tax registration, municipality registration, social insurance enrollment, and any business registrations required in Östersund.
If you need tailored legal advice, contact a qualified immigration lawyer early in the process to reduce the risk of refusals and to ensure your residence and investment plans comply with Swedish and local Östersund requirements.
