Running a business

Start a business – what do you need to consider?

Updated: September 2026

Starting a business involves several practical and administrative steps. The registrations and requirements depend on the type of business, the activities, and whether the company will have employees.

Short answer Start by choosing a business form and planning the activities. Then check what registrations are needed with Bolagsverket and Skatteverket, such as F- or FA-skatt, VAT, and any employer registration. Also, check if the business requires special permits.

1. Choose a business form

The business form affects responsibility, administration, and how the business is registered. Common business forms include sole proprietorship, limited company, partnership, and limited partnership.

Which business form is suitable depends on how the business will be operated. Therefore, compare the options and check the relevant regulations before registering the company.

2. Register the company

The registration process varies between different business forms. Bolagsverket is responsible for several of the registrations concerning Swedish companies and business names.

For sole proprietorship, registering the business name with Bolagsverket is usually voluntary, while a limited company must be registered with Bolagsverket.

3. Apply for F-skatt or FA-skatt

Those who conduct business may need to apply for approval for F-skatt. If you are both employed and running a business, FA-skatt may be relevant.

Registration and application can be done through Skatteverket's services on Verksamt.

4. Check if the company needs to be registered for VAT

If the business is subject to VAT regulations, the company may need to register for VAT. The applicable rules depend on the business activities, turnover, and what the company sells.

Note: Tax and VAT regulations may change, and different businesses may be subject to special rules. Always check current information with Skatteverket for your company.

5. Will the company have employees?

If the company will pay compensation for work, employer registration may be necessary. Check what applies before the first salary or compensation is paid out.

6. Check permits and special requirements

Certain businesses require permits, registration, or notification to an authority, municipality, or other organization. Therefore, check what requirements apply to the specific business you plan to operate.

7. Organize the company's administration

Once the company is up and running, you need to keep track of customers, documentation, invoicing, payments, and accounting.

Create routines for quotes and invoices.
Save the company's documentation and records.
Keep the company's and personal finances separate.
Plan how the accounting will be managed.
Check important dates for taxes and VAT.

Frequently asked questions

Do all companies need to be registered with Bolagsverket?

No, the rules differ between business forms. For example, sole proprietorships usually do not need to register the business name with Bolagsverket, while other business forms have different registration requirements.

What is the difference between F-skatt and FA-skatt?

F-skatt is used for business activities. FA-skatt may be relevant for those who both run a business and have employment.

Do all companies need to register for VAT?

Not necessarily. VAT regulations depend on the business and the company's circumstances. Check the current situation with Skatteverket.

Get started with the company's documents

Prujsa has free tools that you can use directly without creating an account.

Create quote for free →

Create invoice for free →

Search for a company →

Further reading: Verksamt – Start a business , Skatteverket – Business and Bolagsverket .