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An Up-to-Date Guide on Residence Permits for Sweden

If you have the opportunity to spend some time in Sweden, you're likely doing all of the research you can about whether or not it's a good idea, what it's like to live there, and what the entire immigration process is like.

You've come to the right place because, in this guide, we're taking a look at Swedish residence permits.

We've created this article to help those looking to spend time in Sweden navigate the process. From visas and permits, to which you need and how to apply, we'll cover it all here, giving you the information you need to move forward with confidence.

Whether you're heading to Sweden for work, to study, to join a family member, or something else, you'll find details that will help you along the way.

What is a Swedish residence permit?

Foreigners usually need permission to stay in another country for an extended period of time. Depending on the country, this permission can come in the form of a visa, a residence permit, or even citizenship.

In order to stay longterm in Sweden, most foreigners need to apply for a Swedish residence permit. (If you're a citizen of an EU country, you are exempt).

Swedish residence permits allow foreigners to stay more than 90 days in Sweden. If you plan to stay less than 90 days there, you do not need to apply for a residence permit, but you may need to apply for a visa.

Types of residence permits for long stays in Sweden

There's more than just one type of residence permit for Sweden. Different types include:

Tourism
Visiting family members
Visiting a partner
Visiting friends
Attending a conference or for business
Participating in a Doctoral exchange program
For medical treatment
For religious reasons
To volunteer or work as a trainee
An extraordinary event
For another reason

The one that you should apply for depends on your purpose fo spending time in Sweden. You should apply for the type that reflects that.

Sweden residence permit requirements

While anyone can apply for a Swedish residence permit, generally speaking, there are minimum requirements that applicants need to meet during the visa application process.

There is a general set of requirements that all applicants must meet, and then additional specific requirements that depend on which residence permit you're applying for.

General Swedish residence permit requirements

All applicants must meet the following criteria (and show proof of it in their permit application):

Copies of your valid passport. You must show your identity information, validity dates, all existing visas, and entry stamps.
Valid medical travel insurance.
Proof of financial means. This can be a bank account or other way of proofing that you have substantial liquid funds to cover you during the entire duration of your stay in Sweden.
A residence permit application fee receipt (to show you paid the fee).
If applicable: A copy of your valid residence permit in another Schengen country (only if you have one).

In addition to these standard requirements that everybody needs to meet, each type requires additional evidence showing your reason to stay in Sweden.

Requirements when visiting a family member, partner, or friend

Additional requirements include:

A copy of your loved one's Swiss ID card.
A 249011 invitation form (if you're applying for a residence permit outside of Sweden).

Requirements when attending a conference/for business

In addition to the general requirements, you will also need:

A certificate from the organization or company that you're visiting.

Requirements when visiting Sweden for medical treatment

Additional documents required include:

A doctor's certificate. Specific details that this certificate has to include can be seen on the official residence application form.
Proof of funds for your treatment (such as a receipt).

Requirements when applying for a residence permit for religious reasons

In addition to the documents listed in the general requirements section, you will need to present:

A certificate from the relevant religious organization. This certificate must state details about the purpose of your stay and how long you are needed.

Requirements for volunteers or trainees

Additional documents include:

A certificate from the organization/company, the purpose of your stay, and how long you will be there. If the trip is for the European Solidarity Corps (MUCF), you must use form 157011.

Requirements for Doctoral student exchanges

In addition to the general documents, you will also be required to show:

An invitation from a Swedish educational institution with the duration of your stay.
A certificate/letter from your home university.

Please keep in mind that these lists may not be exhaustive and additional documents may be required. You should always check the Swiss Embassy for the latest, most up-to-date information as these details can change.

How to apply for Swedish residency

There are a few steps to follow when applying for a residence permit for Sweden.

Typically, the process follows this order:

Determine which residence permit applies to your situation (your purpose for staying in Sweden).
Begin collecting the necessary documents required for your visa application. This includes general requirements that apply to all applicants as well as specific ones pertaining to your permit type.
Fill out and submit your application
Once your application has been submitted, your residence permit will be forwarded for processing.
Receive a decision!