Investment framework and opportunities in Sweden
Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment
- Freedom of Establishment
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In general, Sweden imposes no restrictions on foreign investments or foreign shareholders. However, in certain sectors, conditions aimed at limiting foreign ownership can be imposed as a requirement for obtaining the necessary permits. Confirmation usually takes two to three weeks once the Swedish Company Registration Bureau has received the written application.
- Acquisition of Holdings
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Taking a majority holding in the capital of a Swedish company is allowed. For more information on mergers and acquisitions please visit Bolagsverket.
- Obligation to Declare
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The Swedish Act (1992:160) on Foreign Branches applies to foreign companies operating through a branch and also to people residing abroad who run a business in Sweden.
The investment promotion agency in the country gives information about the authorisations necessary for establishing a business.
- Competent Organisation For the Declaration
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The Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket)
- Requests For Specific Authorisations
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Sweden does maintain some limitations in a select number of situations:
- Accountancy: Investment in the accountancy sector by non-EU-residents cannot exceed 25 percent.
- Legal services: Investment in a corporation or partnership carrying out the activities of an “advokat,” or lawyer, cannot be done by non-EU residents.
- Air transport: Foreign enterprises may be restricted from access to international air routes unless bilateral intergovernmental agreements provide otherwise.
- Air transport: Cabotage is reserved to national airlines.
- Maritime transport: Cabotage is reserved to vessels flying the national flag.
- Defense: Restrictions apply to foreign ownership of companies involved in the defense industry and other sensitive areas.
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Latest Update: April 2024
Sweden: Investing in Sweden
