Swedish Citizenship by Investment: updated for 2025/2026
The phrase “Swedish citizenship by investment” is one of the most searched immigration topics in Asian. Entrepreneurs, investors, and international families often assume Sweden offers something similar to Malta, Turkey, or the Caribbean citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs.
Here is the truth in one line:
Sweden does not offer citizenship by investment, a golden visa, or any program where money speeds up naturalisation.
What Sweden does offer are legitimate business-based residence permits that—after years of real residence—may lead to citizenship under the same rules as everyone else.
This guide explains exactly what exists, what does not, and how Sweden compares to real CBI countries.
What “Swedish Citizenship by Investment” Really Means
The term itself is misleading. In Sweden, you cannot buy:
- a passport
- a residence permit
- a visa through investment
- special immigration rights
- faster citizenship processing
However, people often use the phrase to mean something else:
Moving to Sweden through a business residence permit, living long-term, and eventually applying for citizenship.
The investment itself has zero legal impact on the citizenship timeline.
Does Sweden Offer Direct Citizenship by Investment?
No. Sweden prohibits all forms of investor passports or golden citizenship routes.
Citizenship applicants—investors included—must meet the same criteria:
- verified identity
- long-term residence (usually 5 years)
- clean criminal record
- stable income and tax compliance
There are no exceptions for wealthy individuals or entrepreneurs.
Comparison: Sweden vs. Citizenship-by-Investment Countries
| Country | CBI? | Golden Visa? | Min. Invest | Citizenship Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweden | No | No | None | 5 years | No shortcuts |
| Malta | Yes | Yes | €600k+ | 1–3 years | Direct CBI |
| Turkey | Yes | Yes | $400k | 6–12 months | Fast track |
| Antigua | Yes | N/A | $100k | 3–6 months | Caribbean |
| St. Kitts | Yes | N/A | $250k | 3–6 months | Oldest CBI |
| Dominica | Yes | N/A | $100k | 3–6 months | Low cost |
| Portugal | No | Yes | €250k+ | 5 years | Residence |
| Spain | No | Yes | €500k | 10 years | Residence |
| Greece | No | Yes | €250k | 7 years | Residence |
| Austria | Rare | Yes | Millions | Case-by-case | Exceptional |
Business Routes That People Confuse With “Investment Visas”
Sweden has no investment visa, but it does have business-based residence permits.
These permits require operational work, not passive investment.
1. Self-Employed Residence Permit
The main route for entrepreneurs.
Requirements:
- documented experience
- viable business plan
- ability to support yourself
- active, hands-on involvement
- realistic profitability
Passive investors do not qualify.
2. Starting a New Business (Startup Activity)
A version of the self-employed permit used by founders.
Applicants must show:
- relevant industry knowledge
- an innovative or competitive concept
- a clear market strategy
- sufficient operational funds
Capital is reviewed only to check viability—not to offer privileges.
3. Buying an Existing Company
Some newcomers buy a Swedish company, but this does not provide any special residence rights.
To receive a residence permit, you must:
- run the business yourself
- show realistic revenue plans
- have the skills to operate it
Ownership alone is not enough.
The Real Path to Citizenship for Business Owners
If you move to Sweden through business activity, the long-term citizenship route works like this:
1. Secure a Business-Based Residence Permit
Self-employed, startup, or hands-on company ownership.
2. Live in Sweden Long Enough
Usually 5 years of legal, continuous residence.
3. Maintain Clean Conduct
No serious crime, no tax debts, consistent income.
4. Apply for Swedish Citizenship
Processed under standard rules—no investor advantages.
Financial Requirements: What Sweden Actually Expects
Sweden publishes no fixed investment thresholds.
Figures like €25,000–€40,000 seen on other websites are inaccurate.
The actual rule:
You must have enough capital to run your business and support yourself.
Different businesses require different levels of funding.
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