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Sweden Visas: An Expert Guide for Travelers

Traveling to Sweden? Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, you may need a visa to enter this beautiful Scandinavian country.

From whether or not you need a Sweden visa, to different types and requirements, we’ve got you covered in this expert guide.

Read on to find answers to your most common questions and get tips for your Sweden visa application process.

Do I need a visa to visit Sweden?

Sweden is part of the Schengen area, which means whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. While some travelers can enjoy short stays without a visa, others may need to apply ahead of time.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you do not need a visa for short stays in Sweden (up to 90 days), as long as they’re for leisure or business. (This includes citizens from the US, UK, Mexico, Canada, Australia, and others)

If you’re not from a visa-exempt country, you will need a visa to enter Sweden. (this includes many African nations, China, Russia, India, and others).

If you’re from a country in the Schengen area: You do not need a visa to enter Sweden.

Do US citizens need a visa for Sweden?

If you’re a US citizen, great news! For visits up to 90 days for tourism or business, you do not need a visa for Sweden.

However, if you are planning to stay for longer than 90 days, or for a specific reason like to study abroad or work, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa.

How do I apply for a Sweden visa?

If you’re not from a visa-exempt country or plan to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a visa. Sweden offers several visa types depending on the purpose of your visit, including tourism, work, study, and digital nomad visas.

The process typically goes as follows:

Determine which visa you’ll need (the most common is a Sweden visitor visa/Sweden tourist visa).
Begin collecting all of the required documents. Your visa center or consulate will provide you with a list of all of the requirements and documentation you’ll need to apply for a Sweden visa.
Book an appointment at a visa center or consulate in your country of residence.
Attend your appointment where you’ll submit biometrics (fingerprints) and your application.
Receive an answer!

Can I apply for a Swedish visa online?

Most people will need to submit their Sweden visa application in-person at a pre-booked appointment. Always check the Swedish embassy's website for the most up-to-date information.

In the coming years, those traveling to Sweden will be able to apply for a Swedish visa online through a system called EU VAP. It hasn’t launched just as of yet, but it will streamline the process and make it more accessible for applicants of all backgrounds in the future. It’s expected to be fully operational by 2030.

Is a Sweden visa difficult to get?

The application process is manageable. When it comes to whether or not your Sweden visa will be approved, the decision lies entirely in the hands of the Swedish Embassy.

What is the rejection rate for Sweden visas?

In 2023, 22.87% of Sweden visa applications were denied globally. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete applications, or failure to meet minimum requirements.

It’s helpful to understand that the rejection rate above is a global number. Rates are fluid and change regularly. They also depend on a wide list of factors, such as nationality, visa type, and more. Because this rate is global, it may not accurately reflect your specific situation.

What is the processing time for a Sweden visa?

The typical processing time for a Sweden Schengen visa is around 10-15 calendar days but can be longer. This is one of the reasons it’s crucial to apply well in advance.

A middle aged couple is laughing together, enjoying a trip to Sweden in the Spring.

Sweden visa application requirements

Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or something else, meeting Sweden’s visa requirements is important – and that means understanding which documents you need to prepare.

For all Swedish visa applications, there are essential standard documents you can expect to provide. Then, specific visas will require additional documents on top of the essential ones.

Which documents are required when applying for a Sweden visa?

The standard documents include:

Completed Sweden visa application form
Passport-sized photos
Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, etc.)
Schengen travel insurance
Flight itinerary
Proof of financial means (bank statements, employment letter, etc.)

What are the specific Sweden visa requirements?

Specific documents will be required depending on the visa type.
Sweden visitor visa requirements (Type C, short-stay)
For tourists, the standard documents listed above will be required.

Type D (long-stay) Sweden visa requirements

If you plan to stay in Sweden (or the Schengen area in general) longer than 90 days, a Type D (long-stay) visa is required. This can include work visas, student visas, family reunification, and more. Your visa center or consulate will supply you with a list of the exact documents you’ll need in order to apply.

Does Sweden have a digital nomad visa?

Currently, there isn’t an official Sweden digital nomad visa for remote workers.

Is there an interview when applying for a Sweden visa?

Sweden visa applications require an in-person appointment at a consulate or visa center in your country of residence. While it isn’t necessarily a formal interview, you will likely be asked questions pertaining directly to your documents and travels ahead.

At this appointment, a visa officer will review your application with you, ensuring all of the necessary documents are present. They will also guide you through biometric collection (taking your fingerprints). If everything is completed, your visa application will be submitted for decision-making by the Swedish Embassy.

A dark purple suitcase stands upright in a modern hotel room in Sweden.

Do I need to apply for ETIAS if I have a Swedish visa?

No, if you have a valid visa for Sweden, you don’t need ETIAS authorization, regardless of your nationality.

Who needs ETIAS to visit Sweden?

Once launched, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the US, UK, Canada) must apply for ETIAS before visiting Sweden for short stays, unless they have a valid Swedish/Schengen visa. ETIAS is expected to launch at the end of 2026.

Learn more in our Sweden ETIAS Guide.

Is Sweden part of the Schengen zone?

Yes! Sweden is a proud member of the Schengen zone, which means once you have a Swedish visa, you can typically move freely from country to country.

Does my Sweden visa allow me to travel through the Schengen zone?

Absolutely! If you have a valid Sweden Schengen visa, you can travel freely within the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This means you can travel from Sweden to Germany, Spain, or any other country in the Schengen area without needing to obtain additional permissions.

Keep in mind that, while uncommon, exceptions are possible. Always check the validity of your specific visa before confirming travel plans.