For those looking to explore the picturesque landscapes and rich culture of Sweden, obtaining a tourist visa is the first step. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the process of securing a tourist visa to Sweden, including types of visas, necessary documentation, and important considerations.
Sweden offers different types of short-term visas based on the purpose of your visit, whether it's tourism, business, or visiting friends and family. The primary requirement is to identify the main purpose of your visit as it determines the type of visa you should apply for. For instance, if you are visiting primarily for business but also intend to engage in tourism, you should apply for a business visa with the requisite invitation from a Swedish company. However, if tourism is your main activity, then a standard tourist visa is appropriate.
When applying for a tourist visa to Sweden, several key documents are needed:
Visa Application Form: Completed in English or Swedish and signed personally.
Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your trip with at least two blank pages.
Photocopies: Include a copy of the passport’s first page and all Schengen visas if applicable.
Photograph: A recent photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm) with a white background, the face clearly visible without any obstructions.
Travel Itinerary: Copies of round-trip ticket reservations.
Accommodation Proof: A hotel or hostel booking confirmation showing all traveling members.
Financial Means: A bank statement showing sufficient funds for the stay (450 SEK per day).
Employment Proof: A certificate from your employer stating your position and salary; self-employed individuals need to show business registration and tax compliance.
Insurance: Medical insurance covering at least 30,000 EUR throughout the Schengen area.
For minors, additional documents such as a birth certificate and parental consent are required.
The application process involves submitting these documents at a visa center or the migration department of the Swedish Embassy. No prior appointment is generally required, and applications can be submitted during the visa center's operating hours.
The visa fee is 35 euros, and there is an additional service fee of 20 EUR when applying through a Visa Application Center. Certain groups, including children under 6, students, participants in cultural or sports events, and disabled individuals, may be exempt from the visa fee under specific conditions.
The typical processing time for a tourist visa is about 5-7 days, although it may vary. Applicants can opt for SMS notifications or courier services for passport delivery for an additional fee.
The visa typically allows a stay of up to 90 days within a six-month period. Frequent travelers to Sweden may be eligible for a multi-entry visa lasting one to five years, based on their travel history within the Schengen area.
If you need to extend your stay due to unforeseen circumstances like a canceled flight, you must apply at the Swedish Migration Agency. For stays extending beyond 90 days, a residence permit may be required.
For those needing to stay longer, a long-term tourist visa allows stays of up to 180 days within a six-month period. This type of visa requires a motivation letter detailing the need for extended stays and is usually reserved for specific cases like family reunions or long-term studies.
While the process might seem daunting, organizing your documents carefully and understanding the main purpose of your visit will streamline the application process. With the right preparation, you'll soon be able to enjoy everything Sweden has to offer from its serene landscapes to its vibrant city life.
Prepared on the information from pickvisa.ru