Swedish Visa Types and How to Apply

Introduction to Swedish visas

Sweden, as a proud member of the European Union and the Schengen area, welcomes visitors worldwide for tourism, business, study, and more. The Swedish visa system is designed to accommodate a wide range of travel purposes, with the Swedish embassy and the Swedish Migration Agency overseeing visa applications and ensuring all requirements are met. Whether you are planning a short visit or a longer stay, understanding the different Swedish visa types, the application process, and the required documents is essential. The migration agency provides clear guidelines to help you navigate the process, from gathering supporting documents to submitting your visa application.

Swedish visa types

Sweden offers two main visa categories based on the duration of your stay: Schengen visas for short-term visits of less than 90 days and National visas (also known as D visas) for extended stays exceeding 90 days. Before applying, ensure you select the correct visa category that matches your purpose of travel, as each category has specific eligibility requirements and documentation.

Schengen visas allow you to stay in Sweden and other Schengen countries (Schengen States) for a certain period, up to 90 days, within the validity period specified on your visa. These visas are valid for travel throughout the Schengen area, and it is important to adhere to the maximum stay permitted during a single trip or within the specified timeframe.

National visas (D visas) are intended for stays exceeding 90 days and are suitable for those planning a longer visit to Sweden.

Sweden Schengen visa

1. Airport Transit Visa: For non-EU citizens who need to pass through the international area of an airport in Sweden or Schengen countries for a layover or flight change.
2. Tourist Visa: For people travelling to Sweden for leisure or sightseeing.
3. Business Visa: For individuals engaged in work-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or short-term business engagements lasting less than 90 days. 
4. Visitor Visa: For non-EU citizens who wish to visit their family members or friends in Sweden. You must get an invitation letter from your host to apply for this visa.
5. Cultural Visa: For non-EU participants in cultural, sports, or religious events in Sweden.

National Visas

National Visas, also known as D visas, are required for those seeking a residence permit for long-term stays in Sweden. The main types include:

1. Student Visa: For international, full-time students enrolled in a Swedish educational institution. You must obtain an acceptance letter from your school as part of your required documentation for the visa application process.
2. Work Visa: For non-EU employees with a valid job offer from a Swedish employer. A work permit is required for employment in Sweden.
3. Job Seeker Visa: For recent graduates of a Swedish institution who are seeking employment in Sweden. This visa allows you to remain in the country while you search for a job.
4. Family Reunion Visa: For immediate family members of Swedish residents or citizens who wish to join their relatives in Sweden. Applicants may need to provide a marriage certificate as part of the required documentation. If the marriage certificate is not in English or Swedish, it must be translated by a certified translator.
5. Researcher Visa: For scientists and researchers sponsored by a recognised Swedish research institution travelling to Sweden for research purposes
6. Freelancer Visa: For self-employed foreign nationals and digital nomads who have demonstrated sufficient means to cover their expenses while in Sweden without getting a job from a Swedish employer.
7. Language Course Visa: For people enrolling in a Swedish language course that lasts longer than 90 days.

Work Visas

If you are planning to work in Sweden, you will need to apply for a work visa before you can start your employment. The application process begins with completing a signed visa application form and gathering all necessary supporting documents, including a valid passport and a formal employment contract from your Swedish employer. Your employer must also provide proof of salary payment and other relevant details. Once your visa application is submitted, the Swedish Migration Agency will review your case, and you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview. Because the processing time for a work visa can take several months, it is important to start your application well in advance of your intended start date. Staying organised and following the migration agency’s instructions will help ensure your work visa application proceeds smoothly.

Visa Exemption

Travellers from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, do not need a visa to visit Sweden for short stays. However, even if you are exempt from the visa requirement, you must still carry a valid passport and be able to demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay. It is also important to have up-to-date information about entry requirements, as these can change. Before you travel, always check the Swedish Migration Agency’s website to confirm your eligibility for visa exemption and to review any additional requirements. This will help you avoid any surprises when entering Sweden and ensure a hassle-free visit.

Sweden visa requirements

When applying for Sweden visa types, there are several common requirements that you need to fulfil regardless of the visa category. Applicants must provide documents as specified for their chosen visa category:

1. A fully completed and signed visa application form. You can download this form from the Swedish Embassy website in your country.
2. A valid passport with at least three months validity after your visa expires and two blank pages.
3. Two recent passport-size photographs that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements – plain white background, 35mm x 45mm in size, with your face occupying 70-80% of the photo.
4. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Sweden, such as your recent bank statement or a sponsorship letter. If you are employed, you may be required to provide an employer letter. This should be a recent, signed, headed letter from your employer, including the company registration number, contact information, your employment position, salary, and may be accompanied by recent payslips.
5. A valid travel insurance policy with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
6. A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit to Sweden and your itinerary.
7. Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host in Sweden. The invitation letter must include the contact details of the host organisation or private sponsor (name, address, relation to the applicant, visit purpose, and length of stay).
8. Proof of a booked return journey or onward travel to demonstrate your intent to leave Sweden after your visit.

Please ensure that all documents submitted are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing your application.

Online visa applications are available for Sweden, allowing you to submit and track your application conveniently. You can also check your Sweden visa status online through the e-service portal provided by the Swedish embassy.

General steps for applying for a Swedish visa

The visa process for applying for a Swedish visa – whether for a short-term visit or long-term stay – involves several steps, including gathering and submitting documents, paying the application fee, and preparing for travel to Sweden. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

1. Start by identifying the purpose of your visit to Sweden (tourism, business, study, work, etc) and select the appropriate visa type that matches your travel needs. For some nationalities, coordination with other Schengen countries may be required, which can affect processing times.
2. Visit the official website of the Swedish Migration Agency or the nearest Swedish Embassy or Consulate’s website to check detailed eligibility criteria and specific document requirements for the visa type you need. Be aware that applications requiring consultation with other Schengen countries may take longer to process.
3. Gather all required documents, such as a valid passport, photographs, proof of financial means, travel insurance, and any additional supporting documents for your visa type. Ensure that all documents submitted are complete and accurate to avoid delays in the visa process. If these are not issued in Swedish or English, you must get their certified translations in English.
4. Download and fill out the visa application form accurately. Ensure all information is correct and corresponds with the information in your supporting documents.
5. Schedule and attend your visa interview to submit your documents at the nearest Swedish Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Centre.
6. Pay the mandatory, non-refundable application fee specified during the application process (see the list below). The application fee covers consultation, submission, and processing of your application. Accepted payment methods typically include cash or credit/debit cards, but may vary depending on location.
7. Once your visa application is approved, you may need to return to the Embassy or Visa Application Centre to collect your passport with the visa sticker inside it, or it may be sent to you by post.
8. After receiving your visa, check all the details on the visa sticker to ensure they are correct and match your travel plans. You are now authorised to enter Sweden within the validity period of your visa.

Swedish visa processing times and fees

• A short-term Schengen visa processing time is typically 15 days but may extend to 30 days if further documentation or verification is required. 
• A long-stay national visa is usually processed within one to two months, depending on the specifics of the application.

Swedish visa fees

Swedish visas are standardised for short-term visas but can vary for long-term visas based on the type or category:

• Schengen Visa Fee:
  • Adults: €90
  • Children (6-12 years): €45
  • Children under 6 years: Free
  • Certain applicants, such as students, researchers, or participants in non-profit cultural or sports events may qualify for reduced fees or waivers.
• National Visa Fee: The fee varies depending on the type of visa you apply for.  Nationals of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union, such as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kosovo, and Ukraine, may qualify for fee reduction or exemptions.

Tips for a successful visa application

1. Begin your application process at least 15 days before your travel date. Understanding the requirements for visiting Sweden is crucial to ensure a successful visa application, as this gives you time to gather all necessary documents and buffers any delays in processing.
2. Carefully read the specific requirements for your visa type. You can confirm the details on the Swedish Migration Agency website or contact the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
3. If your visa type requires an interview, prepare thoroughly. Be ready to clearly explain your reasons for visiting, your plans during the stay, and your intentions to return to your home country afterwards.
4. When budgeting for your visa, include translation costs and other potential expenses for mailing documents or attending interviews.

Ready to start your Swedish visa application process? Request a free quote to get certified translations for your supporting documents.

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