Registering a business in Sweden involves submitting documents to Bolagsverket, the Swedish Companies Registration Office. For many foreign companies, this step can feel overwhelming due to the detailed requirements and legal terminology. However, with the right guidance, the process is straightforward and manageable. This step-by-step guide explains how to complete the registration form correctly, highlights common mistakes, and shows you what to prepare in advance.
Although the official form is in Swedish, understanding each section will help you provide accurate information and avoid unnecessary delays. By following this visual guide, you can ensure your registration is processed efficiently.
1. Prepare Before You Start
Before filling in the form, gather the necessary documents and information. Missing details often lead to rejected applications.
- Company name proposals (you should have at least three alternatives).
- Information about the owners, board members, and managing director.
- Company address and contact information.
- Articles of association (for limited companies).
- Details of share capital and bank certificate (for Aktiebolag).
Having these documents ready will make the process smoother and reduce the risk of errors.
2. Section A: Company Information
This section asks for the basic details of your company.
- Company name (Företagsnamn): Write your first choice clearly, followed by two backup options in case the first is not approved.
- Business activities (Verksamhetsbeskrivning): Describe your business purpose in one or two sentences. Be specific, but avoid overly broad terms.
- Address: Provide a Swedish business address. A P.O. Box alone is not sufficient.
3. Section B: Board and Management
Here you must list the people responsible for the company’s management.
- Board members (Styrelseledamöter): At least one board member is required. Larger companies may need more.
- Deputy board members (Suppleanter): These are substitutes if a board member cannot fulfill their duties.
- Managing director (Verkställande direktör): Optional for smaller companies, mandatory for larger ones.
Include full names, personal ID numbers or passport numbers, and residential addresses.
This part applies mainly to limited companies (Aktiebolag).
- Share capital (Aktiekapital): State the amount deposited, with a minimum of SEK 25,000 for private limited companies.
- Bank certificate (Bankintyg): Attach proof from the bank showing the deposited capital.
- Shareholder details: List all shareholders and their ownership percentages.
5. Section D: Company Auditor (if applicable)
Some companies are required to appoint an auditor depending on size and turnover.
- Auditor (Revisor): Provide details of the appointed auditor.
- Exemptions: Small private companies may be exempt from mandatory audit.
6. Section E: Signatory Rules (Firmateckning)
This section defines who has the authority to sign for the company. Options include:
- The managing director alone.
- The entire board collectively.
- Two board members jointly.
Clear signatory rules prevent disputes and ensure legal compliance.
7. Attachments and Submission
At the end of the form, you will be asked to attach supporting documents.
- Articles of association (Bolagsordning).
- Bank certificate (for limited companies).
- Proof of ID for foreign board members or shareholders.
Once complete, the form can be submitted digitally via Bolagsverket’s online portal or by mail. Digital submission is usually faster.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications are delayed due to avoidable errors. Watch out for:
- Vague or overly broad business descriptions.
- Incorrect spellings of board member names.
- Failure to provide alternative company names.
- Missing signatures on required pages.
From Paperwork to Approval
Completing the Bolagsverket registration form is an essential step for establishing your business in Sweden. While the form may seem complicated at first, understanding each section makes the process manageable. Preparing documents in advance, providing accurate details, and avoiding common mistakes will ensure your application is processed without unnecessary delays.
Need help navigating the registration process? CE Sweden can guide you through every stage, from preparing documents to final approval.
