Visa for visiting Sweden 
A new EU regulation on visas, the Visa Code, is applicable from 5 April this year. The Visa Code introduces some new rules and regulations but is on the whole a codification of what already is practiced. There are new rules on time limits for appointments and for prior consultation of other Schengen States. The Visa code also clarifies rules on admissibility, reasons for refusal, for filling visa stickers and for local Schengen cooperation between the embassies. The paragraphs on collecting biometric identifiers, right to appeal as well as cooperation with external service providers does not enter into force in Sweden until earliest next year. 


General information 
To facilitate legitimate travel common regulations on visas have been decided for the European Union. Visa means an authorisation issued by a Member State with a view to
• transit through or 
• intended stay in Sweden or other Member State. 

The purpose of the stay or transit can be 
• business or conference
• visiting of relatives and friends or 
• tourism. 


Rules for lodging an application 
For lodging an application the applicant is, as a rule, required to appear in person.  Each applicant shall submit a completed and signed application form with all supporting documents including passport. 

When to apply? 
Applications shall be lodged no more than three months before the start of the intended stay. It is recommendable to apply well in advance within this period. Applications are decided on within 15 calendar days of the date of the lodging.  
This period may in individual cases be extended. 
When lodging the application you are asked to leave your passport at the Embassy. The visa assistant will inform you when to come back and collect your passport and visa (if granted). 

How long is a visa valid?
Visas are as a rule granted for a maximum of three months. A visa usually entitles you to one entry to Sweden/EU. Two entry and multiple entries are available for some applicants. 

Where is a visa valid?
A uniform visa is valid for the entire territory of the Member States, states that do not take part in the Schengen acquits are however excepted. A national visa may be granted when the Embassy considers it necessary on humanitarian grounds, for reasons of national interest or because of international obligations. This visa is only valid for Sweden and can not be specifically applied for. For more information on the Schengen Agreement please refer to the link on the right. Visas granted for more than 90 days is only valid for Sweden. 

Who decides in my case?
The applications are examined and decided at the Embassy. The Embassy is obliged to send some cases to the Migration Board in Sweden. 

If the application is turned down?
Applicants who have been refused a visa do not have the right to appeal. You can request a reconsideration, the decision can be changed if it is obviously wrong. A new application can always be submitted.