Visa and Entry Requirements in Sweden

1. What is the current visa policy for traveling to Sweden?

The current visa policy for traveling to Sweden depends on the nationality of the traveler.

For citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries, as well as Switzerland, no visa is required to enter Sweden. They have the right to travel and stay in Sweden for up to 90 days without a visa.

For citizens of non-EU/EEA countries, a visa is generally required to enter Sweden. However, there are some exemptions based on agreements between certain countries and the EU. For example, citizens of certain countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States may enter Sweden for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Citizens of other countries will need to apply for a Schengen visa before entering Sweden. This allows them to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

2. How do I know if I need a visa to travel to Sweden?

You can check if you need a visa by consulting the list of countries whose citizens require visas to enter Sweden on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website or by contacting your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate.

3. What are the requirements for obtaining a Swedish tourist or business visa?

The requirements for obtaining a tourist or business visa may vary depending on your country of origin and specific circumstances. In general, you will need:

– A completed application form
– Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
– Two recent passport-sized photos
– Proof of financial means to cover your stay in Sweden
– Travel itinerary and accommodation details
– Proof of health insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000
– Visa fee payment

Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances.

4. How do I apply for a Swedish tourist or business visa?

You can apply for a Swedish tourist or business visa at your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate in person. Some countries also allow for visa applications to be submitted online.

5. How long does it take to process a Swedish tourist or business visa?

The processing time for a Swedish tourist or business visa can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply and your individual circumstances. In general, the processing time can take anywhere from 1-4 weeks.

6. Can I extend my stay in Sweden if my visa expires?

If you are eligible to enter Sweden without a visa, you may be able to stay up to 90 days without an extension. If you have entered with a Schengen visa, you may be able to apply for an extension at the Swedish Migration Agency if there are exceptional circumstances preventing you from leaving the country. However, this is subject to approval and there is no guarantee that your request will be granted.

7. Can I work in Sweden on a tourist or business visa?

It is not allowed to work on a tourist or business visa in Sweden. If you wish to work in Sweden, you will need to apply for a separate work permit.

8. Are there any COVID-19 related travel restrictions for entering Sweden?

Yes, currently due to the COVID-19 pandemic, entry into Sweden is restricted for most non-EU/EEA travelers except those with essential reasons including work, family emergencies, studies, or returning residents/citizens. All travelers entering Sweden must undergo a health screening upon arrival and potentially self-isolate for 14 days depending on their country of origin.

Travel restrictions and guidelines are subject to change and it is recommended to regularly check official government websites before traveling.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Sweden as a tourist?


Yes, if you are not a citizen of a Nordic country or an EU/EEA country, you will need a visa to enter Sweden as a tourist. Citizens of some non-EU countries may also enter Sweden without a visa for short stays, but it is best to check with the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country for specific visa requirements.

3. Are there any exemptions for certain nationalities in regards to visa requirements in Sweden?

Yes, citizens of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for short-term visits to Sweden (less than 90 days). These countries include:

– All European Union (EU) member states
– EFTA member states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland)
– Andorra
– Argentina
– Australia
– Brazil
– Brunei Darussalam
– Canada
– Chile
– Costa Rica
– Croatia
– Honduras
– Hong Kong (China)
– Israel
– Japan
– Macao (China)
– Malaysia
– Mexico
– Monaco
– New Zealand
– Nicaragua
– Panama
– Paraguay
– San Marino
– Singapore
– South Korea
– United States of America (USA)
– Uruguay

Note: Citizens of these countries must still have a valid passport to enter Sweden without a visa.

Additionally, citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for short-term visits if they hold a residence permit or permanent residence in an EU/EEA country or Switzerland:

-Antigua and Barbuda
-Bahamas
-Barbados
-Mauritius
-Seychelles

Citizens of other countries are required to obtain a Schengen visa before entering Sweden. You can check if you require a visa by consulting the Swedish government’s list of visa-exempt countries or by contacting your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate.

4. How long does it typically take to obtain a visa for Sweden?


The processing time for a visa application for Sweden can vary depending on the type of visa, the current workload of the Embassy or Consulate, and other factors such as holidays or peak travel seasons. The average processing time is approximately 2-4 weeks. However, it can take up to several months in some cases. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned trip to allow sufficient time for processing.

5. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa applications for Sweden?


Yes, Sweden offers an option for expedited processing of certain visa applications. The priority processing service is available at an additional fee and allows applications to be processed within 48 hours. This service is only available for certain types of visas, such as business and tourist visas. If you require expedited processing, it is recommended to inquire with the Swedish embassy or consulate where you will be submitting your application for more information and specific requirements.

6. Are vaccinations required for entry into Sweden?


As of July 2021, Sweden does not have any specific vaccination requirements for entry. However, travelers should check with the Swedish embassy or consulate in their home country for any updates or changes to entry requirements related to COVID-19. It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations for travel to Sweden.

7. Is there a limit on how long I am allowed to stay in Sweden on a tourist visa?

Yes, there is a limit on how long you can stay in Sweden on a tourist visa. Typically, tourists are allowed to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that you cannot continuously stay in Sweden as a tourist for more than 90 days in any given 6-month period. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different type of visa or permit that allows for a longer stay. It is important to check the specific regulations and requirements for your country of citizenship before traveling to Sweden. You may also contact the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.

8. Can I work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Sweden?

No, it is not permitted to work or volunteer while on a tourist visa in Sweden. Tourist visas are issued for the purpose of leisure and recreational activities, not for employment or volunteering. If you wish to work or volunteer in Sweden, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit that allows it. Failure to comply with your visa conditions may result in deportation and future travel restrictions.

9. Is it possible to extend my tourist visa once I am already in Sweden?

Yes, it is possible to apply for an extension of your tourist visa while in Sweden. However, extensions are not guaranteed and are typically only granted in exceptional circumstances, such as unforeseen emergencies or serious illness. If you wish to extend your stay in Sweden, it is recommended that you contact the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) well in advance of your current visa expiration date. The agency will review your case and determine if an extension is possible.

10. What are the necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Sweden?


The necessary documents and fees required for a visa application to Sweden may vary depending on the purpose of travel, but some common requirements include:

1. Completed visa application form – This can usually be filled out online or obtained from the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country.

2. Valid passport – Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay in Sweden.

3. Two recent passport-sized photos – These must meet the specific requirements of the Swedish embassy or consulate.

4. Proof of accommodation – This can include a hotel booking confirmation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host in Sweden.

5. Travel itinerary – A detailed plan of your trip, including flight reservations and a list of planned activities.

6. Proof of financial means – This can include bank statements, credit card statements, or sponsorship letters demonstrating that you have enough funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Sweden.

7. Travel medical insurance – You must have valid travel medical insurance with coverage for at least €30,000 in case of emergency medical treatment.

8. Letter of employment – If you are employed, you may need to provide a letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave dates.

9. Criminal record certificate – Depending on the purpose of travel and length of stay, you may be required to provide a criminal record certificate issued by authorities in your country.

10. Visa application fee – The fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and can be paid either at the time of application submission or upon collection.

It is recommended to check with the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements and fees before submitting your visa application.

11. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for business travelers entering Sweden?


Yes, business travelers entering Sweden must have a valid passport or national ID card, a visa (if required), and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. They may also be asked to provide proof of the purpose and length of their trip, such as an invitation from a Swedish company, meeting/conference registration, or confirmation of accommodation arrangements. Business travelers are not allowed to work in Sweden without proper authorization. Additionally, travel restrictions may apply due to COVID-19 regulations. It is important to check the latest guidelines and restrictions before traveling to Sweden.

12. Do minors require a separate visa when traveling with their parents or legal guardians to Sweden?


Minors who are citizens of a non-EU/EEA country require their own visa to travel to Sweden, regardless of whether they are traveling with their parents or legal guardians. The only exception is if the minor holds a residence permit in an EU/EEA country. In this case, they do not need a separate visa to enter Sweden with their parent or guardian who also holds a residence permit in an EU/EEA country.

13. What is the duration of validity for a tourist visa to enter Sweden?

The duration of a tourist visa to enter Sweden depends on the individual’s nationality and reason for visiting. Generally, a Schengen tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. It is important to check with your local Swedish embassy or consulate for specific information on visa duration and requirements based on your personal circumstances.

14. Can I enter and exit multiple times with one single-entry tourist visa for travels within Sweden?

No, a single-entry tourist visa only allows for one entry into Sweden. If you plan to enter and exit multiple times, you will need to apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa.

15. Can I apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Sweden?


It depends on your nationality. Some nationalities are allowed to apply for a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Sweden, while others are not. You will need to check with the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country to determine if you are eligible for a visa on arrival. It is always recommended to apply for a visa before traveling to Sweden to avoid any unexpected issues at the airport.

16. Does my passport need to have a minimum number of months remaining before expiration in order to apply for a visa to enter Sweden?

Yes, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure from Sweden in order to apply for a visa. It is recommended to have a passport with at least six months validity remaining to avoid any complications during travel.

17. Will my criminal record affect my eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Sweden?


It is possible that your criminal record may affect your eligibility for obtaining a visa to enter Sweden. Visa decisions are based on a variety of factors, including the purpose of your visit, your financial stability, and any potential risks you may pose to public safety. If your criminal record raises concerns about these factors, it could impact the outcome of your visa application. It is important to disclose any relevant information about your criminal record when applying for a visa and to provide any necessary explanations or documentation. Ultimately, the decision to grant a visa is at the discretion of Swedish authorities.

18. What are the consequences if I overstay my tourist visa period in Sweden?

Overstaying your tourist visa period in Sweden can have serious consequences. These may include:

1. Fine: You may face a fine for each day you overstay your visa.

2. Deportation: If you are caught by immigration officials, you may be deported from Sweden and blacklisted from entering the country again in the future.

3. Difficulty obtaining visas in the future: Overstaying a visa can make it more difficult for you to obtain visas for other countries in the future, as it can be seen as a violation of immigration laws.

4. Ineligibility for residence permit: If you plan to extend your stay in Sweden or apply for a residence permit, overstaying your tourist visa may make you ineligible for these options.

5. Legal consequences: In some cases, overstaying a tourist visa may result in legal action being taken against you.

It is important to always follow the terms and conditions of your tourist visa and leave the country before it expires to avoid any potential consequences.

19.Is it possible to convert from one type of temporary residency permit (such as student, work, or family) to another while remaining within country limits in Sweden?


Yes, it is possible to apply for a change of temporary residency permit in Sweden. However, the requirements and process may vary depending on the specific type of permit and individual circumstances.

Some common scenarios where a change of permit may be applied for include:

– Changing from a student permit to a work permit if the person has found employment in Sweden.
– Changing from a work permit to a family reunification permit if the person’s partner or family member is already living in Sweden.
– Changing from a visit visa to a temporary residence permit if the person needs to extend their stay for reasons such as medical treatment or studies.

In order to change permits, the applicant must still meet all eligibility criteria for the new type of permit and submit all necessary documents and fees. They may also need to undergo an interview or additional background checks.

It is important to note that not all types of permits can be changed and some may have specific limitations or restrictions. It is recommended to consult with relevant authorities such as the Swedish Migration Agency for further information and guidance on changing permits.

20.What are the mandatory requirements regarding passport photos and sizes for visa application in Sweden?


The mandatory requirements for passport photos and sizes for visa application in Sweden are as follows:

1. Size: The photo should be 35mm x 45mm in size.

2. Background: The background should be plain, light-colored (preferably white), and without any patterns or shadows.

3. Head position: The head should be centered in the frame and facing directly towards the camera. Both ears should be visible and the face should be fully visible with no hair covering the eyes.

4. Expression: The applicant must have a neutral facial expression with their mouth closed, and both eyes open.

5. Glasses: Glasses are allowed in the photo, but they must not cover the eyes or create any glare. Tinted glasses or sunglasses are not allowed.

6. Headgear: Headgear is only allowed if it is worn for religious or medical reasons, but it cannot cover any part of the face.

7. Makeup: Excessive makeup that changes the natural appearance of the face is not allowed.

8. Quality: The photo must be printed on high-quality paper with a clear resolution and no pixelation or blurriness.

9. Age of photo: The photo must have been taken within the last six months to reflect the applicant’s current appearance.

10. Color vs black-and-white: The photo must be in color, as black-and-white photos will not be accepted.

11. Date of issue/signature: There should be no date of issue or signature on the front side of the photo.

12. Number of photos required: Two identical photos are required for each visa application.

13. Digital photos: If applying online, digital photos that meet all these requirements can also be submitted electronically.

14.Lastly, it is important to note that each country may have specific requirements for passport photos, so it is always best to check with the Swedish embassy or consulate where you will submit your visa application for any additional requirements.