How to get a Swedish Schengen Visa (90-Day Visitor)

Sweden, with its stunning archipelagos and innovative cities, is a prime destination for global travellers. For non-EU citizens planning a short visit of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, securing a Schengen Visa is the first crucial step. The Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) is the ultimate authority for these applications.

Here is a comprehensive overview of the requirements, financial proofs, and the application process to ensure your trip is off to a smooth start.

Section 1: Core Requirements and Documentation

The application criteria are designed to confirm your intent to return home and your financial stability during the visit.

1. Passport and Application Form

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the entire Schengen Area. It must have been issued within the last ten years and contain at least two blank pages.
• Application Form: A completed Schengen visa form is mandatory. (Note: The specific PDF form number is 119031, available through the Migration Agency website.)
• Photograph: A recent, passport-sized photograph (taken straight from the front, no more than six months old).

2. Purpose and Exit Plan

• You must be able to clearly describe the purpose of your visit (tourism, visiting family/friends, business, etc.).
• You must provide proof of your intent to leave the Schengen area before your visa expires. This often requires a valid round-trip ticket.

3. Essential Financial and Health Proofs

• Financial Subsistence: You must demonstrate funds for your subsistence and return journey. Sweden currently requires that you have at least SEK 450 (Swedish Krona) for each day of your planned visit. This can be proven via bank statements, or by an official commitment from your host in Sweden to cover all costs.
• Medical Insurance:Mandatory individual medical travel insurance is required. The policy must cover:
  • Costs related to emergency medical assistance or urgent hospital treatment.
  • Costs for transport back to your home country for medical reasons (repatriation).
  • The coverage must be for at least €30,000 and be valid in all Schengen countries.

• Read also:-
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Section 2: Application Process, Fees, and Waiting Times

The application procedure varies depending on your country of residence.

1. Where and How to Apply

• Main Destination Rule: If you plan to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply to the authorities of the country that is your main destination (where you will spend the most time).
• VFS Global: In most countries, Sweden partners with an external service provider, VFS Global, to receive applications. You will usually submit your application, biometrics, and documents there.
• Embassy/Consulate: In some cases, you may need to apply directly at a Swedish embassy or be represented by another Schengen country’s embassy. Always check the correct embassy or VFS Global website for the country where you reside.

2. Application Fees (Standard)

• Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. Fees may be slightly adjusted based on local currency conversion. Visa fee waivers apply to certain groups, such as students or researchers travelling for study/scientific purposes.

3. Timeline

• You can apply no more than six months before your planned visit.
• The decision typically takes around 15 days, but waiting times can vary significantly based on the country where the application is submitted. It is highly recommended to apply well in advance.

Section 3: Essential Documents for Visitors (Host-Specific)

If you are visiting family or friends, your host in Sweden must provide specific documents:

1. Official Invitation Form: The host must complete the official Migration Agency invitation form (Invitation – Before application for Schengen visa, form 241011).
2. ID Copy: A copy of the host’s ID document (passport or ID card).
3. Population Register Extract: An “Invitation” extract from the Swedish Population Register (ordered from the Swedish Tax Agency).
4. Proof of Income (If Sponsoring): If the host is covering your costs, they must provide documents showing their income and assets.