If you are travelling to the US for business for a short stay, the Visa Waiver Program may be a good option.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States temporarily for tourism or business for 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel and meet all requirements.
Under the Visa Waiver Program, citizens of 40 countries (including Sweden) do not need a US visa if:
- The period of stay is 90 days or less (no extensions allowed)
- The purpose of travel is Business Meetings / Discussions:
- Meet with lawyers, real estate agents, investors, accountants, and take active steps to set up the U.S. entity
- Attend meetings with prospective clients and business associates
- Negotiate business deals, leases or contracts
- No productive employment – this is not a work authorized status
- Foreign employer and payroll (i.e., no payments from U.S. sources, except incidental expenses)
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
ESTA is the automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Authorization via ESTA does not determine whether a traveler is admissible to the US. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The ESTA application collects biographic information and answers to VWP eligibility questions. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. It is recommended that travelers apply as soon as they begin preparing travel plans or prior to purchasing airline tickets.
Registration using the ESTA website is required every 2 years: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ .
If not a citizen of an ESTA-authorized country, or if a longer period of stay is needed, a B-1 Visa may be applied for at the U.S. Embassy. Most often valid for 10 years, with stays of up to six (6) months per trip (extension permitted).