Swedish law · Eyer Juridik AB
Doing Business in Sweden
Sweden offers a transparent, digitalised and stable business environment. Entering the market nonetheless requires decisions on structure, contracts, employment and compliance that are best made with an understanding of Swedish law.
We help international companies plan and establish their Swedish operations, so that legal risks are identified early and the commercial set-up works in practice.
Common issues for international companies
- Deciding how to enter the market — cross-border sales, agents, distributors, a branch or a subsidiary
- Adapting contract templates and terms of trade to Swedish conditions
- Hiring staff in Sweden and understanding Swedish employment protection
- Registrations with Bolagsverket and other authorities
- Leasing commercial premises
How Eyer Juridik AB can assist
- 01
Mapping the legal steps for market entry
- 02
Drafting distribution, agency and supply agreements
- 03
Assisting with company or branch formation
- 04
Reviewing commercial lease agreements
- 05
Providing ongoing advice as the business develops
Legal considerations when entering Sweden
Employment relationships in Sweden are governed by, among other things, the Employment Protection Act (lagen (1982:80) om anställningsskydd), under which, as a main rule, dismissal by the employer requires objective reasons (sakliga skäl, section 7). Collective agreements are widespread and can apply to an employer who has signed one, either directly or through an employers' organisation.
A foreign company that conducts business from a permanent place in Sweden is generally required to register a branch with Bolagsverket. Separate registrations with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) may be required for tax and employer purposes.
Commercial leases of premises are regulated by Chapter 12 of the Land Code (jordabalken), which gives commercial tenants certain indirect security of tenure, including a possible right to compensation if the landlord refuses to extend the lease without acceptable grounds — unless that protection has been validly waived.
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice for any specific situation.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can a Swedish company be formed?
Registration with Bolagsverket is often completed within a few weeks once all documents and the share capital are in place, though processing times vary.
Can we employ staff in Sweden without a Swedish entity?
A foreign company can in principle employ staff directly in Sweden, but it must then register as an employer with the Swedish Tax Agency. Which country's employment law governs the relationship depends on the circumstances, including any choice of law and where the work is habitually carried out; certain mandatory Swedish rules may apply to work performed in Sweden.
Do you assist with immigration or work permits?
This is outside our core practice. We can refer you to an appropriate specialist.
Contact
Discuss your legal matter in Sweden
Tell us briefly about your business and the Swedish legal question you are facing. We will review your enquiry and explain how we may be able to assist.