The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa offers Swedish business owners an efficient way to enter the U.S. market. With strong trade ties, treaty eligibility, and structured support from both governments, the United States is a favorable destination for Swedish investment and expansion.
1. Treaty Eligibility and Local Application
Sweden has been an eligible E-2 treaty country since 1992. Swedish nationals may apply directly through the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm, which provides instructions for submitting E-2 applications. The embassy processes these cases regularly, helping Swedish investors start or expand U.S.-based businesses.
2. Strong Trade Relationship with the United States
The United States is Sweden’s largest trading partner outside the European Union. In 2023, Swedish exports to the U.S. totaled approximately SEK 187 billion, accounting for 2.9 percent of Sweden’s gross domestic product (GDP). Key sectors include automotive, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, machinery, and chemicals.
3. Established Business Presence and Market Integration
More than 1,600 Swedish-owned companies operate in the United States. A 2024 survey by Business Sweden found that 65 percent of these companies planned to increase U.S. investment, and 72 percent expected rising sales. Common sectors include healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and energy solutions.
4. Swedish Government Support in the United States
Swedish entrepreneurs expanding into the U.S. benefit from established support through Business Sweden. This government agency maintains offices in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, offering advisory services focused on market analysis, regulatory requirements, and local business connections.
With teams familiar with both Swedish and U.S. commercial practices, Business Sweden provides companies with a structured starting point in a complex market. Their presence helps reduce early-stage risk and supports more informed, strategic decisions during U.S. expansion.
5. Growth-Oriented Visa Structure
The E-2 visa allows Swedish investors to manage their U.S. business directly. It supports scalable ventures that align with U.S. consumer markets and provides legal flexibility for long-term business development. Spouses may apply for employment authorization, and children under 21 can attend school.
Sources
- U.S. Embassy Sweden – Business Visas: https://se.usembassy.gov/business/
- Sveriges Riksbank – Staff Memo 2025: https://www.riksbank.se/globalassets/media/rapporter/staff-memo/engelska/2025/increased-import-tariffs-in-the-united-states-what-is-the-extent-of-swedish-exports-to-the-usa-and-which-sectors-could-be-most-affected.pdf
- Business Sweden – USA Market Overview: https://www.business-sweden.com/expand-globally/markets/americas/usa/
- Business Climate Survey USA 2024: https://www.business-sweden.com/49c7f0/contentassets/a1cf86d9234c4c559b3f74f512c02e94/business-climate-survey-2024-usa.pdf
- U.S. Department of State – 2024 Investment Climate Statement: https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-investment-climate-statements/sweden/