Does Sweden Have a Digital Nomad Visa in 2025?
Short answer: No. Sweden still doesn’t offer an official digital nomad visa in 2025.
But here’s what most articles won’t tell you: Thousands of digital nomads live and work in Sweden legally right now using alternative visa options.
(This is where we reveal the loopholes that actually work.)
Option 1: The Self-Employment Visa (Best for Freelancers)
This is Sweden’s closest equivalent to a digital nomad visa. Officially called the “Self-Employment Residence Permit”, it allows you to:
✔ Live in Sweden while working for foreign clients
✔ Bring your family (spouse/children)
✔ Stay for up to 2 years (renewable)
Requirements:
- Proof of income (minimum SEK 13,000/month after tax)
- Business plan showing viability
- Swedish business registration (enkelt bolag)
- Health insurance covering Sweden
Pro Tip: Many freelancers combine this with Sweden’s Startup Visa if building a tech business.
Option 2: EU Freedom of Movement (For EU/EEA Citizens)
If you hold an EU passport:
- You can move to Sweden tomorrow
- No visa needed
- Stay indefinitely
Just:
- Register with the Swedish Tax Agency
- Get your personnummer (like a SSN)
- Open a Swedish bank account (try Revolut first)
Option 3: Schengen Visa + Border Runs (For Non-EU Nomads)
How it works:
- Enter Sweden visa-free (90 days)
- Before 90 days end, leave Schengen zone
- Stay out for 90 days
- Return
Warning:
- Border agents may ask for proof of onward travel
- Don’t overstay (Schengen bans can last years)
Better Alternative: Apply for a Visitor’s Residence Permit if you have savings.
Taxes Made Simple
🗓 <6 months in Sweden: Not tax resident (pay taxes in home country)
🗓 >6 months: Tax resident (~30% income tax)
Smart Strategies:
- Use the *183-Day Rule* to avoid residency
- Deduct home office (up to 25,000 SEK/year)
- Consider forming an AB (corporation) for lower taxes
Where Digital Nomads Actually Live
| City | Avg Rent | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stockholm | 15,000 SEK | Fast-paced | Networking |
| Gothenburg | 10,000 SEK | Creative | Work-life balance |
| Malmö | 9,000 SEK | Hipster | Budget nomads |
Hidden Gem: Umeå – Cheap Arctic city with great WiFi
Real Nomads Share: Reddit AMA Highlights
*”I got my self-employment visa by showing just $3,000/month from freelance clients.”* – u/NomadInSweden
“Border control asked for my client contracts when I entered.” – u/RemoteWorkerProblems
Plan B: Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa
If Sweden says no:
- Estonia offers a 1-year digital nomad visa
- Just €3,500/month income requirement
- Easy ferry to Stockholm
Final Checklist
- Choose your visa path
- Gather financial documents
- Register business (if needed)
- Book temporary housing
- Join local nomad Facebook groups
Can I work remotely in Sweden on a tourist visa?
No. Sweden’s 90-day Schengen tourist visa prohibits work (even remote work for foreign companies). Doing so risks deportation and Schengen zone bans.
What’s the minimum income for Sweden’s self-employment visa?
You must prove at least SEK 13,000/month after tax (≈ $1,200). Realistically, aim for SEK 20,000+ to strengthen your application.
How long does the self-employment visa process take?
Typically 3-6 months. Apply before moving to Sweden through the Migrationsverket portal.
Can I bring my family as a digital nomad to Sweden?
Yes! The self-employment visa allows spouse/children to join you. They’ll need proof of relationship, your approved visa, and health insurance.
Do I need to speak Swedish for the visa?
No, but learning basics (A1 level) helps with bank account setup, tax filings, and social integration.