Given Sweden’s well-known tax complexity and regulatory environment, understanding the typical costs for setting up and maintaining a standard limited company (Aktiebolag, or AB) in 2025 is essential for any international business owner or professional considering this jurisdiction. Below, you’ll find the key figures for both the average formation and yearly compliance costs, presented with full transparency and reference to official sources.
Typical Costs for Establishing an Aktiebolag (AB) in Sweden (2025)
The main legal business entity for most Swedish companies is the Aktiebolag (AB), equivalent to a limited liability company. The table below details the average total cost for creating an AB as of 2025, as well as a specific breakdown for each main component.
| Cost Item | Amount (SEK) | Amount (USD) (Rate: 1 SEK ≈ $0.095, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum share capital requirement | 25,000 SEK | $2,375 |
| Registration fee (online, Bolagsverket) | 1,900 SEK | $180 |
| Average lawyer/legal service fee for company formation | 2,300 SEK | $220 |
| Total (average) | 29,200 SEK | $2,775 |
The majority of the upfront capital (25,000 SEK) is required as minimum registered share capital, a standard feature of Swedish corporate law. This capital is not strictly a fee, as it remains within the company to fund operations. The rest of the formation cost comprises registration and professional service fees.
Ongoing Annual Maintenance Costs for a Swedish AB
Maintaining an AB in Sweden has several recurring annual expenses. These costs range based on company size and selected services, but the following table summarizes the essential expenditures for 2025:
| Maintenance Item | Annual Cost (SEK) | Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual report/accounting services (minimum, small company) | 8,000 SEK | $760 |
| Annual report/accounting services (average, small to medium) | 15,000 SEK | $1,425 |
| Annual Bolagsverket filing fee | 1,400 SEK | $133 |
| Optional: Registered office/virtual office service | 1,600 SEK | $152 |
Depending on the complexity and activity level of the company, annual compliance and administrative costs will generally fall between 8,000–20,000 SEK ($760–$1,900) per year. The accountant’s fees are the largest part of this outlay, and smaller companies with minimal transaction volumes can expect to pay closer to the lower end, while those with greater needs will be at the upper end.
Where to Find Official Information
For the latest regulations, filing requirements, and fee schedules, refer to Sweden’s official government resources:
- Bolagsverket (Swedish Companies Registration Office)
- Verksamt.se (Official business portal for Sweden)
Practical Pro Tips for Company Setup & Maintenance in Sweden
- Ensure your initial share capital of 25,000 SEK is transferred and documented before registration, as this is strictly verified during setup.
- Use the online services from Bolagsverket to minimize registration fees and processing times.
- Engage a certified accountant familiar with Swedish compliance early; local standards require annual financial statements even for small companies.
- Set calendar reminders for annual filings with Bolagsverket to avoid unnecessary late fees and possible administrative penalties.
- Consider a virtual office solution if you require a Swedish office address without the overhead of a physical office; this is both cost-effective and commonly used by international founders.
To summarize, Sweden’s regulatory landscape is as rigorous as its reputation suggests. Founders should anticipate a moderate upfront investment, mainly tied up in share capital, as well as consistent annual outlays for compliance, accounting, and administration. Staying organized will prevent unexpected costs and ensure smooth, ongoing company operation in 2025 and beyond.