Sweden Visas

Written by Mike Arnold Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 15, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

With over 7 million visitors per year and a GDP per capita ofmapproximately $58,000 (one of the highest in the world), Sweden is a cultural hotspot and a great place to start a career, both great for work and leisure.

However, whether you're drawn to its innovative tech scene, world-renowned universities, or picturesque landscapes, it's crucial to understand Sweden's visa requirements before you travel.

This guide will provide comprehensive information on the visa application process, necessary documents, and other essential details to ensure your trip to Sweden is seamless.

When do you need a visa for Sweden?

Sweden provides short-term Schengen visas for travel and business, in addition to specific visas for work, study, and family reasons. Let's discover the main types:

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: If you're a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you can travel to Sweden without a visa, After five years, you’ll be able to apply for a permanent residence, which is the path to citizenship.
• Outside the EU: Citizens from outside the category above are allowed to visit Sweden without a visa for short stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This includes countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US.
• Other nationalities: If you're not a citizen of the countries above, you'll likely need a visa to visit Sweden, even for short stays.
• Long stays and work: If you plan to stay in Sweden for over 90 days or intend to work or start a business there, you'll need a residence permit, regardless of your nationality.

Sweden visa requirements

The specific documents required for a Swedish visa application can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. However, here are the general requirements that typically apply to most visa categories:

• Completed application form: Fill out the official visa application form accurately and completely. The form can usually be downloaded here or obtained from a visa application centre.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Sweden and have at least two blank pages.
• Passport photos: Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements (usually two photos at 45 x 35mm).
• Travel medical insurance: You must have travel medical insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay in Sweden and the Schengen Area. The minimum coverage amount is typically €30,000.
• Proof of accommodation: Provide evidence of where you will be staying in Sweden, such as hotel reservations, a rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host.
• Proof of sufficient funds: Demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself in Sweden. The rate is currently set at SEK 450 per day.
• Documents related to the purpose of your visit: Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may need to provide additional documents, such as:
  • Work permit: Employment contract or job offer letter from a Swedish employer
  • Student visa: Acceptance letter from a Swedish educational institution
  • Family reunion visa: Proof of relationship with the Swedish resident or citizen

Remember:

• It's essential to check the specific requirements for your chosen visa category on the official Swedish Migration Agency website or consult the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country.
• All documents should be in English or Swedish or translated into one of these languages by a certified translator.

Sweden visa application process

If you're ready to apply for your Swedish visa, here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Identify the right visa type: The first and most crucial step is to determine which visa type suits your travel purpose and check your eligibility. Gather information about the required documents, processing times, and fees associated with your chosen visa category. Ensure your documents are in English or have certified translations if needed.
2. Begin your application: Download the visa application form, complete it accurately, and print it out.
3. Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at a Sweden Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo). You'll receive a confirmation email and appointment letter.
4. Pay your fees: The visa application fee can be paid online or at the Visa Application Centre during your appointment.
5. Visit a visa application centre: Attend your scheduled appointment and submit your completed visa application form and all required documents in person.
6. Track your application: You'll receive email updates on your application's progress. You may also be able to track your application status online using the reference number from your receipt and your date of birth.
7. Collect your passport: Once a decision is made, you can collect your passport from the Visa Application Centre or have it couriered to you for an additional fee. Remember to bring your receipt and identification when collecting your passport in person.

How to get a permanent residence permit in Sweden?

A permanent residence permit in Sweden grants you the right to live and work in the country indefinitely without the need for renewals. However, to obtain this permit, you must meet specific requirements.

Eligibility & requirements

To qualify for a permanent residence permit, you typically need:

• Valid residence permit: You must have held a valid residence permit in Sweden for a certain period, which varies depending on your current permit type (usually at least 4 years).
• Meet additional criteria: You also need to demonstrate sufficient means of subsistence, an orderly life, and potentially other factors depending on your situation.

Application process

In most cases, you apply for a permanent residence permit with an application for an extended residence permit. The specific application process and required documents depend on your current residence permit type.

Important notes

• Revocation: A permanent residence permit can be revoked if you are no longer resident in Sweden, have been abroad for a long time, or have discovered that you provided false information in your application.
• Specific requirements: The eligibility criteria and application process can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of residence permit you currently hold.

Learn More

How do I get Swedish citizenship?

There are a few ways to get citizenship in Sweden:

• Born in Sweden: If you were born in Sweden, congratulations! You're automatically a Swedish citizen.
• Adopted by Swedes: If you were adopted by Swedish parents, you're also automatically a citizen.
• Notification: Children, young adults (18-20), and Nordic citizens might be able to become Swedish citizens through a simpler notification process.
• Naturalisation: This is the most common path for adults who weren't born or adopted in Sweden. You'll need to meet certain requirements, like living in Sweden for a certain period, having a permanent residence permit, and leading an orderly life.

The nitty-gritty:

• Naturalisation takes time: The process can take around 10 years, so be patient!
• Dual citizenship is allowed: You can keep your original citizenship while becoming Swedish.
• Application process: You'll need to fill out an application, provide documents, and pay a fee to the County Administrative Board in your region.

Learn More