Sweden is part of both the European Union and the Schengen Zone, facilitating easy travel for visitors from those regions. For travelers from other parts of the world, it is important to review the visa requirements in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
What You Need to Know About Visas in Sweden
Citizens of the European Union can visit Sweden without a visa and are allowed to live, work, and study in Sweden without a residence permit. Conversely, travelers from outside the EU can visit the Schengen Zone, which includes Sweden, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in the Schengen Zone.
Although a visa may not be required, visitors should be prepared to show a return ticket valid within 90 days, confirmed accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay.
Staying Longer in Sweden
If you are not an EU citizen and plan to visit Sweden or the Schengen area for up to 90 days, you may require a visa. Citizens from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and several other nations are typically exempt from this visa requirement for stays of up to 90 days.
However, travelers from most Asian and African countries, along with certain eastern European and Latin American nations, may need a visa to enter Sweden. For detailed information, visit the Schengen Visa Policy web page or consult the Swedish government’s list of countries whose citizens require visas for entry into Sweden.
Don’t Leave Your Sweden Visa Arrangements to the Last Minute
If a Schengen visa is necessary, apply well ahead of your travel plans—no more than six months prior. If your itinerary includes multiple Schengen countries, apply for a visa through the embassy or consulate of the country where you will spend the most time. Make certain that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay, was issued within the last 10 years, and has at least two blank pages. Additionally, ensure you have emergency medical insurance that is valid for your entire stay. For comprehensive information regarding required documents for visa applications, refer to the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
Six-Month Visitor Permits for Sweden
For those planning to stay in Sweden longer than 90 days, a visitor’s permit application is necessary through the Swedish Migration Agency, unless you hold EU citizenship. If already in Sweden, you can typically apply for a visitor’s permit to extend your stay by an additional 90 days. If you are aware of an intended stay exceeding 90 days, you may apply for a six-month visitor’s permit prior to your journey rather than entering with a tourist visa for the first 90 days.
Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your anticipated visit, and you should be able to demonstrate your ability to support yourself throughout your stay. Additionally, have a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one. Other conditions may apply, based on nationality and the purpose of the extended stay. More guidelines for applying can be found on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
Entering Sweden from Another Schengen Country
Upon entering Sweden from another Schengen country, you typically do not need to go through immigration checks; however, you must have your valid passport or national identity card ready for presentation to authorities if requested. Notably, there is a border check on the Øresund bridge, so if traveling to Sweden from Denmark by road or train, ensure you have your passport or national ID card prepared for inspection. Occasionally, other border checks may take place under special circumstances.
