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Schengen Travel

Sweden Schengen Visa

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Sweden Schengen Visa – Essential Travel Guide and Requirements

Planning a trip to Sweden? A Schengen visa allows you to visit Sweden and other Schengen countries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process and requirements.

Your Sweden application should be submitted using the Sweden e-application portal (opens in new tab).

Once your application is submitted on the online portal and the document upload process is completed, you will:

  • Be provided the option to book an appointment on the online portal to give your biometrics at VFS and submit your passport.

  • If you have given your biometrics previously for a Schengen visa within the last 60 months, you may mail in your passport or drop your passport at VFS in person during opening hours.

Why Visit Sweden?

Sweden is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history:

Sweden Schengen Visa Requirements

To apply for a Sweden Schengen Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

  1. Application Form:
  • Completed and signed application form in English (form no. 119031) or Swedish (form no. 118031).
  1. Photograph:
  • One recent passport-sized photo taken within the last six months with a light background and a neutral expression. The applicant must be bareheaded unless there are special religious reasons. Refer to the ICAO guidelines (opens in new tab) for specific photo requirements.
  1. Passport (Original and Copy):

  • A signed passport issued within the last 10 years.

  • Must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.

  • Contains at least two blank pages for affixing the visa sticker.

  • Include photocopies of the pages with personal data.

    • Printed proof of immigration status with a share code from GOV.UK (opens in new tab). UK immigration status is now held as a UKVI eVisa. Physical BRPs expired on 31 December 2024 and are no longer valid. Provide a share code from the UKVI online checking service.
  • Proof that you have at least one month of residency in the UK remaining after your planned exit from the Schengen area.
  1. Proof of Sufficient Funds:

  • Last 3 months of UK bank account statements (original and copy) in your name, showing balance and proving sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (minimum of €40 per day).

  • Credit card statement indicating the cardholder’s name and monthly limit.

  1. Proof of Employment/Socioeconomic Status:

  • For Employees: A recent official letter from the employer (not older than 30 days), including name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of signatory, registration number, position, and salary details, along with pay slips for the last three months.

  • For Self-Employed: A letter from an accountant, banker, or solicitor confirming the nature of self-employment or business ownership, along with a self-assessment form and a recent letter from tax authorities.

  • For Students: A recent letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment and details of the studies.

  • For Unemployed: Official proof of receiving benefits from the government.

  1. Proof of Travel:

  • Confirmed return ticket to the UK or proof of onward travel (such as an entry authorization into another country or confirmed overseas ticket).

  • If traveling by car, provide car registration, insurance documents, and return ferry tickets.

  1. Proof of Accommodation:

  • Confirmed hotel reservations, rental agreements, or proof of accommodation with a family member or friend, including any sponsorship documents if applicable.

  • If the applicant’s name is not mentioned on the accommodation reservation, a joint travel confirmation letter signed and dated by the person whose name is on the reservation must be provided along with a photocopy of that person’s passport/ID card.

  1. Travel Health Insurance: Must show the applicant’s name, have coverage of at least €30,000, be valid in all Schengen countries, and cover the entire period of intended stay in the Schengen area. The insurance must be obtained from a company based in the United Kingdom or a Member State.

  2. For Minors (Under 18 Years):

  • Birth certificate showing both parents’ names.

  • If traveling alone or with only one parent: Original passports of both parents or certified copies, written consent from the non-traveling parent, and a British school certificate.

  • In the case of sole custody: Provide one of the following documents:

  • Birth certificate mentioning one parent.

  • Death certificate of the absent parent.

  • Court ruling indicating sole custody.

  1. Proof of Business Invitation:
  • An invitation from a firm or authority in Sweden to attend meetings, conferences, or proof of registration for events connected with trade, industry, or work.
  1. Proof of Study or Professional Training:
  • A certificate of enrollment at an educational establishment for the purposes of attending vocational or theoretical courses.

When to Apply for a Sweden Schengen Visa

You can apply 6 months in advance for a Schengen visa, and it is strongly advisable to apply 1 month in advance to meet processing timelines and accommodate transportation timeframes.

Processing Time

  • Once your passport is received at VFS, it is dispatched to the Swedish Migration Agency in Sweden for processing. Note that international shipping can take 3-5 working days to reach Sweden and an additional 3-5 working days to return to the UK.

  • The application processing begins once the passport has physically reached the Swedish Migration Agency. The minimum processing time for the application is 15 calendar days, and it can sometimes take longer.

Sweden Visa Fees

  • Consulate Fee: €90 for adults.

  • Children (Aged 6–11): €45.

  • Children Under 6: Free.

  • VFS Fee: £21

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to confirm the current rates before applying.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I stay in Sweden with a Schengen visa?
The visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Can I visit other Schengen countries with my Sweden visa?
Yes, with a Schengen visa for Sweden, you can travel across all 29 Schengen countries.
How long does visa processing take?
Visa processing generally takes up to 15 calendar days, but this may vary depending on your nationality and the specific Swedish Consulate.
Can I extend my Schengen visa in Sweden?
Extensions are rare and generally granted only in exceptional cases, such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons. Extensions are processed through local Swedish authorities (opens in new tab).
Is it possible to work in Sweden with a Schengen visa?
No, the Schengen visa does not permit employment. You would need to apply for a work visa (opens in new tab) if your intention is to work in Sweden.
Can I study in Sweden on a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa only allows short-term studies or training lasting less than 90 days. For longer study programs, you will need a student visa (opens in new tab).
What should I do if my visa is denied?
If your visa application is denied, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You have the right to appeal the decision or submit a new application if your circumstances change.
What if I’m visiting multiple Schengen countries?
If you are combining multiple Schengen countries in one trip, you must apply for a visa from the main destination country. If you plan to spend equal time in each country, Sweden must be your first point of entry.
Are confirmed travel plans required?
Yes, your hotel bookings and train/flight tickets must be confirmed, and your travel plans must be genuine. The Swedish Consular Authorities may conduct background checks to confirm the legitimacy of your travel plans.
What is the earliest date I can apply for a Schengen visa?

You can apply up to 6 months in advance of your intended travel date.

If you want to apply with us, please start your application here.

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