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Sweden Travel Visa: All You Need to Know Before Applying

Last Update: 27-08-2024

Stockholm, Sweden

⚡Quick Summary

Do Indians need a visa for Sweden?

Yes, Indian citizens are required to obtain a Schengen visa for both tourism and business visits to Sweden.

Processing time for Sweden Visa

15 to 21 Working Days

Sweden tourist visa fees for Indians

  1. Sweden visa fees: Euro 80
  2. VFS Appointment fees: Euro 15

Sweden visa validity

180 Days

Sweden visa stay duration

90 Days

How to apply for a Sweden visa

  1. Apply through Teleport in minutes.
  2. Apply through the VFS Visa Application Centre.

Documents required for Sweden visa

  1. Visa Application Form
  2. Passport 
  3. Photograph 
  4. Cover Letter
  5. Travel Medical Insurance - Euro 30,000
  6. Flight tickets and Hotel Bookings
  7. Bank Statement (last 3 months)
  8. Income Tax Returns (last 2 years)
  9. See other documents.

Is visa on arrival available for Indians in Sweden?

No, Visa on arrival is not available for Indian passport holders travelling to Sweden.

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27+ applied recently

97%

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Approval Rate

Do Indians Require a Visa to Enter Sweden?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Sweden. Being a member of the Schengen Agreement, India requires a Schengen visa for short visits up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe. This visa permits travel not only to Sweden but also across other Schengen nations for tourism, business, or family visits.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. When to Apply for a Sweden Schengen Visa
  3. What are the Various Types of Sweden Travel Visa Available for Tourists ?
  4. Step by Step Procedure for Applying Sweden Travel Visa
  5. Documents Required for Sweden Visa for Indian Citizen
  6. What is the Processing Time of Sweden Visa Application for Indians?
  7. Sweden Visa Fees for Indians
  8. How Long Can Indians Stay in Sweden with a Schengen Visa?
  9. Can I Extend my Sweden Schengen Visa as an Indian?
  10. How to Check Sweden Visa Status for Indians?
  11. Requirements for Travel Insurance when Applying for a Sweden Visa for Indians
  12. Common Reasons for Sweden Visa Rejection for Indian Applicants
  13. What to do if My Sweden Visa Application is Refused?
  14. Do I Need an Airport Transit Visa for Sweden?
  15. What to Do Upon Arrival at Sweden Airport?
  16. Conclusion
  17. FAQs

Introduction

Considering a trip to Sweden from India? Understanding the visa process is key for a smooth and enjoyable journey. This detailed guide covers all you need to know for Indian nationals planning to get a tourist visa for Sweden.


From the application steps to Sweden travel visa requirements, visa types, and their fees, we aim to equip you with all the necessary information for your upcoming Swedish adventure.


Need help or have questions? Our team is here to assist. Call us at 073148 52914 or drop a message on WhatsApp.


Get ready for a hassle-free journey to Sweden!

Can Indians Get a Sweden Visa on Arrival?

No, Indian travellers are not granted a visa on arrival in Sweden. A visa must be obtained in advance to ensure smooth entry into the country.

When to Apply for a Sweden Schengen Visa

Applying for a Schengen Visa via a Swedish Diplomatic Mission:


Visiting a Single Schengen State:

Apply at the Swedish consulate if Sweden is your sole destination or the first point of entry into the Schengen zone.


Visit Across Multiple Schengen States:

  1. Apply at the Swedish consulate if Sweden is where you'll spend most of your trip.
  2. For trips through various Schengen states with equal stay duration, such as visiting Sweden, Germany, and France, apply at the consulate of the first country you'll enter, in this case, Sweden.

Visit Purpose:

The main purpose of your visit determines where to apply. If uncertain or if your journey involves multiple countries, aim for the embassy or consulate of the first Schengen country you enter.


For example, if attending a conference in Sweden is the main reason for your trip, apply at the Swedish consulate, even if you plan to visit other countries.


What are the Various Types of Sweden Travel Visa Available for Tourists ?

Schengen Visa (Short Stay):

  1. Uniform Visa: With a uniform visa, you can travel to the specified States for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. You can calculate your allowed stay using the short stay calculator on the European Commission's Directorate-General for Home Affairs website.
  2. Visa with Limited Territorial Validity: This visa type permits travel exclusively to the State(s) mentioned on the visa sticker and does not include other Schengen States.

National Visa (D Visa): For individuals intending to stay in Sweden for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. D-visas are rarely granted and are primarily considered based on the urgency of the travel.


Business Visa: Tailored for Indians with business intentions, this visa grants a 90-day stay in Sweden for activities like attending conferences, meetings, or trade events.


Study/Sports/Cultural Visa: Apply for this visa if you're travelling for study, sports, or cultural purposes.


Airport Transit Visa: An airport transit visa permits its holder to transit through the international transit areas of the issuing State and, if specified on the visa sticker, potentially through transit areas in other States.


Step by Step Procedure for Applying Sweden Travel Visa

Apply for Sweden Visa with Teleport

Step 1: Start Your Application:

Go to Teleport's Sweden visa application page and click "Apply for Visa."


Step 2: Enter Your Details and Pay:

Fill in your passport details, select your payment option (full or partial), and follow Teleport's guidance to complete your personal information.


Step 3: Prepare Your Documents:

A Teleport relationship manager will assist in gathering all necessary documents for your Sweden visa application.


Step 4: Book Your Appointment:

Your Teleport relationship manager will secure an appointment for you at your preferred visa application centre based on available slots.


Step 5: Attend the Visa Application Centre:

Visit the VFS Visa application centre at your appointed date and time to submit your biometrics and documents required for Sweden visa.


✅ Teleport reviews your application and documents before submission.


✅ Receive updates via WhatsApp and email.


Teleport will notify you about the embassy's decision as soon as it's made. Stay updated through the platform, and upon visa approval, download it directly from your Teleport Dashboard.


Apply at VFS Global Application Centre in India

Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type

Begin by determining the appropriate visa type for your trip and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Familiarise yourself with the required documents, estimated processing time, and applicable fees. If your documents are not in English, consider having them translated before applying.


Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have all the necessary documents for a Sweden visa. Continue reading further for a detailed document checklist.


Step 3: Start Your Application

After identifying your visa types and gathering all the required documents, select your visa type and fill the Visa application form


 Step 4: Book Your Appointment

After submitting your visa application, it's time to schedule an appointment at the VFS Visa Application Centre for biometric data collection, including fingerprints and a photo.

Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation email along with your appointment letter.


If you're applying as a family or group, remember that each member must schedule their individual appointments.


Step 5: Pay Your Fees

After submitting your application, you will need to pay the visa fee. If you download the form to print and bring it to the Visa Application Centre, you can make the payment during your appointment.


Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

After completing your online application please make sure to print the visa application form. These documents will be essential when you submit your application at one of these Visa Application Centre.


You must personally submit your fully completed visa application form and documents at one of the designated Visa Application Centers unless instructed otherwise.


Learn about What Happens in the Visa Application Centre


Step 7: Track Your Application

If you submitted your application at a VFS visa application centre, you can use the VFS online application tracking tool to check your application's status. Simply provide the following details:


  1. The reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
  2. Your date of birth

Step 8: Collect Your Visa

After a decision has been reached on your visa application, you can retrieve your documents from the Visa Application Centre in person or opt for a courier service, subject to an additional fee.


Please note that the Embassy of Sweden has introduced a new policy regarding passport collection at the VFS Visa Application Centre. Third-party collection is not permitted. 


If a group or family member is picking up the passport on behalf of the applicant, a power of attorney signed by the applicant, along with a valid government-issued photo ID for the representative, will be required.


Documents Required for Sweden Visa for Indian Citizen

Mandatory Documents

Visa Application Form

Complete the visa application form, sign it, and bring it to your appointment.

Original Passport

  • Original and copy of the passport
  • Include a copy of the extension page and any observation page if applicable.
  • Previous passport if any

Photograph

  • One colour photo not older than six months
  • Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
  • White background

Bank Statement

  • Recent bank statement, covering the past three months, with an official stamp and signature from the bank.
  • The statement should be no more than one week old at the time of application.
  • Recommended bank balance is at least SEK 450 (INR 3,300/-) per person per day for the entire trip.

Cover Letter

Mention your name, travel details, expenses, and purpose of the visit.

Travel Insurance

Minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros, specifying coverage for accidents, illness, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations or rental documents of holiday homes or campus residence reservations for your entire Schengen stay.

Flight Reservation

  • Proof of a return ticket.
  • If travelling to multiple Schengen states, provide evidence of intra-Schengen flight reservations, train itineraries, or car rentals.

Travel Itinerary

  • If you plan to travel to multiple Schengen States, provide proof of an intra-Schengen tickets or hotel reservations 
  • Certificate from the travel agency confirming your organised trip or other appropriate documents outlining your travel plans.

Supporting Documents

If Employed

  • If you plan to travel to multiple Schengen States, provide proof of an intra-Schengen tickets or hotel reservations 
  • Certificate from the travel agency confirming your organised trip or other appropriate documents outlining your travel plans.

If Self-Employed

  • PAN registration
  • Bank statements covering the last three months
  • Proof of company registration

If a Student

A letter confirming enrollment in the college or university

If Sponsored

  • Proof of sponsorship.
  • A letter from the sponsor.
  • Copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (e.g. passport, Aadhaar card, or driver's licence).

If Retired

  • Pension statements from the last three months
  • Proof of regular income, such as property ownership or business ownership

If Married

  • Copies of the original Marriage Certificate and the Birth Certificates of your children.

If Invited

  • Signature of any of the parent / legal guardians on duly filled visa application form. 
  • Minor Consent Form duly signed by both parents / legal guardians. 
  • Passport Copy / PAN Card Copy or any other identity document, containing picture and signature of both the parents / legal guardians. 
  • Birth certificate or other documents showing proof of relationship with parents/legal guardian.
  • The consent of the parental authority or legal guardian should be required only if the minor travels alone or only with one parent

If Travelling as a Group (20+)

  • Flight and Hotel Bookings - One group reservation with the list of applicants.
  • Employees of the travel agency travelling in the group must submit their employment letter.

Photograph Guidelines and Specifications for Sweden Visa Application

Photo requirements for a Sweden visa for Indian citizens include:


Recent Photograph: The photograph used for the visa must not be older than 6 months.


Size and Specifications: Your photograph should meet these specific dimensions:

  • Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm (width x height)
  • The face must cover 70 to 80% of the photograph
  • The background of the photo should be plain and white.

Photograph Guidelines and Specifications for Sweden Visa Application


Position of Head: Your head must be visible in its entirety and positioned centrally in the frame.


Glasses and Headwear: Glasses can be worn as long as they do not cause a reflection obscuring the eyes. While religious head coverings are permitted, they must not hide any part of the face, from the chin to the forehead and across all facial features.


Photo Quality: The photograph must be in colour, high-resolution, and without any shadows, red-eye effect, or reflections to ensure clarity.


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Teleport Expert Tip

Make sure the photograph for your application matches the one in your passport and adheres strictly to the specified requirements. To avoid application delays or denial, use a recent photograph that fulfils all these criteria. While you have the convenience of taking your visa photo at the centre, be aware that it may be more costly and time-consuming than bringing a photo with you.

What is the Processing Time of Sweden Visa Application for Indians?

The processing duration for a Sweden visa for Indian applicants can vary, but it typically ranges from 15 to 21 working days from the date the embassy processes the application.

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Begin your Schengen visa application for Sweden well ahead of your planned travel date, preferably up to 6 months prior. During peak season, it's recommended to submit your application at least 4 weeks in advance to ensure timely processing.

Sweden Visa Fees for Indians

Visa TypeFee TypeAmount

Schengen Visa (Type - C)

VFS Appointment Fees

Euro 15 (INR 1,350/-)

Schengen Visa (Type - C)

Embassy Fees (up to 6 years old)

No Fees

Schengen Visa (Type - C)

Embassy Fees (6-12 years)

Euro 40 (INR 3,500/-)

Schengen Visa (Type - C)

Embassy Fees (12+ years)

Euro 80 (INR 7,000/-)

How Long Can Indians Stay in Sweden with a Schengen Visa?

Indian nationals are permitted to remain in Sweden for up to 90 days on a Schengen visa within any 180-day period. This means you can spend a cumulative total of 90 days in Sweden or any other Schengen area countries within 180 days.

Can I Extend my Sweden Schengen Visa as an Indian?

If your intention is to stay in Sweden for more than 90 days or extend an existing visit beyond 90 days, you must apply for a visitor's permit. 


However, if you already have an ongoing application for a residence permit at the Swedish Migration Agency, you cannot be granted two permits simultaneously. 


In such cases, you will only receive a decision on the application that offers you the most advantages, typically a residence and work permit. If you apply for a visitor's permit while in Sweden, it might jeopardise your residence and work permit application.


If you're outside of Sweden, it's recommended to wait for a decision on the most advantageous application. This could mean that the dates you intended to apply for a visitor's permit may have passed by the time the decision is made. Therefore, it's advisable not to apply for a visitor's permit in such cases.


Requirements for a visitor's permit:

  1. Ability to support yourself financially during your stay in Sweden.
  2. Possession of a valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond your visit's end date.
  3. A return ticket or funds to purchase a return ticket.

Apply for a visitor's permit

To apply for a visitor's permit, you can use the e-service if you are in Sweden and wish to extend your visit to a total of more than 90 days.


To utilise the e-service, you should be able to make the application fee payment with a credit card or charge card. Upon completing your application in the e-service, you will need to schedule an appointment at an embassy or consulate-general to present your passport. 


This appointment can be arranged in your home country or country of residence if you're applying from outside Sweden, or in Sweden if you're applying from within the country. During this appointment, you will also undergo fingerprinting and photography. 


It's important to note that this process applies even if you've had a residence permit card previously, as your photo and fingerprints are not retained.  If you are applying from abroad, you will also have an interview at the embassy or consulate-general.


How to Check Sweden Visa Status for Indians?

To keep track of your Sweden visa application progress, you may use services like Teleport or consult with VFS Global if your application was submitted through them.

Check Your Sweden Visa Application Status with Teleport

If you used Teleport for your visa application, expect to receive prompt updates through WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard.


To check your application status:

  1. Sign into the Teleport Dashboard.
  2. Head over to 'Your Applications.’
  3. Select the application you've made to view the most recent status update.

Monitor Your Sweden Visa Application via VFS Global

For those who applied at a VFS Global visa application centre, you can track the status of your application on their official website:


  1. Visit the VFS Global site dedicated to visa status tracking.
  2. Enter the reference number you were given upon making your payment at the VFS centre.
  3. Type in your surname.
  4. Click "Submit" to receive the latest status update on your application.

Requirements for Travel Insurance when Applying for a Sweden Visa for Indians

Indian nationals seeking a Sweden visa must have valid travel medical insurance. Being part of the Schengen Zone, Sweden necessitates that its visitors are adequately insured for their trip.


Key Considerations for Selecting Travel Insurance for a Schengen Visa:


  1. Minimum Coverage: Your insurance should provide a minimum of €30,000 for medical emergencies, including sickness or accidents, throughout your stay in Sweden.
  2. Suggested Features: Choose a policy that covers hospital stays, repatriation, emergency medical transportation, and issues that might disrupt your travel plans.
  3. Insurance Providers in India: Look into policies offered by well-known companies like Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, and HDFC Ergo to find one that matches your requirements and financial plan.

Common Reasons for Sweden Visa Rejection for Indian Applicants

Inaccurate or Altered Documents: Submission of falsified or incorrect documents can cause your application to be declined. All documents must be genuine and adhere to Sweden travel visa requirements for Indians.


Inconsistent Travel Plans: Any inconsistency between your stated travel itinerary and actual plans, such as discrepancies in hotel bookings or flight tickets, can lead to doubts and possibly, application denial.


Insufficient Financial Means: It is essential to show you have enough funds for your stay, typically about SEK 450(INR 3,300/-) per day per person. A recommended bank balance is at least INR 3,00,000 prior to application.


Unclear Purpose of Visit: Uncertainty regarding the legitimacy of the trip's purpose or the risk of overstaying may lead to visa refusal.


Limited Travel Record: Applicants with minimal international travel history, particularly for specific visa categories or frequent travellers, may face challenges in their application process.


Damaged Passport: Application rejection may occur if your passport is damaged, such as having tears, missing pages, or not having enough validity. Make sure your passport is in good condition and valid.


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Teleport’s Expert Tip

For a smoother visa application process, it is advisable to present solid evidence of financial stability. Keep a minimum balance of INR 3,00,000 for each applicant, supported by transparent bank statements and tax returns.

What to do if My Sweden Visa Application is Refused?

If your visa application was denied and you're not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to appeal. The denial letter will explain why your application was rejected. To challenge this decision, you must submit a written appeal within three weeks from the date you received the denial.


Submitting your appeal after three weeks will result in automatic rejection by the Embassy.


Your appeal should include:

  • The decision you're contesting.
  • How you wish the decision to be revised.
  • Your full name, date of birth, postal address, email, and phone number.
  • Any new evidence or information that wasn’t part of your original application.

Compose your appeal in English or Swedish and send it via email to: visa.new-delhi@gov.se 


Alternatively, you can mail your physical appeal directly to the Embassy. 


Avoid sending multiple appeals or using different methods to submit the same appeal.


If your appeal is signed by someone else on your behalf, ensure they have the legal authority to represent you, demonstrated by a power of attorney.


If the Embassy decides to amend its decision:

If the Embassy considers revising the decision in your favour, based on new information or an error in the initial decision, they will get in touch with you.


If the Embassy upholds its decision:

If your appeal is timely but the Embassy sees no grounds to alter the decision, your case, along with all related documents, will be sent to the Administrative Court in Stockholm for review. Once your case is transferred, any inquiries should be directed to the court. You can find their contact details through the link provided on the Förvaltnings Domstolen website.


Timeline for the Appeal Process:

If the Embassy opts to reconsider its decision upon receiving your appeal, they will contact you within a few days. However, if the Embassy forwards your appeal to the Stockholm court, be prepared for a longer waiting period. For details on the processing times, visit the Så avgörs mål om visum section on the Förvaltningsrätten i Stockholm website (domstol.se). 


Do I Need an Airport Transit Visa for Sweden?

Determining the need for an airport transit visa (ATV) for Sweden depends on two distinct situations:


  1. Transiting Through an Airport's International Zone: This means staying within the international zone of the airport without exiting it. For example, if your connecting flight is booked under the same PNR, there is no requirement to exit the transit zone, thereby eliminating the need for an ATV.
  2. Exiting the Airport's International Transit Area: This situation arises when you leave the airport's international zone.

Possessing an Airport Transit Visa enables you to stay within the international transit zone at a Swedish airport while you wait for your connecting flight to a country outside the Schengen area. Note, this visa does not grant permission to enter the Schengen zone for activities like overnight hotel stays or catching another flight within the Schengen countries.


What to Do Upon Arrival at Sweden Airport?

  1. Organise Your Travel Documents: Make sure to have all essential documents such as your passport, valid Sweden visa (if needed), return flight ticket, and accommodation reservations readily available for inspection by immigration officials. Proper organisation facilitates a swift and hassle-free entry.
  2. Advice for Unaccompanied Minors: Unaccompanied minors should stay near the airline staff assigned for their care during the flight for safety. Upon landing, they should promptly find the designated adult meeting them at the airport to ensure a secure and straightforward handover.
  3. Understanding Sweden’s Entry Regulations: Familiarise yourself with Sweden's customs rules prior to your arrival. Should you need to declare goods or if your baggage is subject to inspection, proceed directly to the customs area without delay. Knowing these regulations beforehand can help avoid complications with customs upon arrival.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Sweden’s entry and customs rules, your entry at the Sweden airport can be seamless and stress-free.


Conclusion

To summarise, obtaining a tourist visa for Sweden for Indian nationals requires meticulous preparation and awareness of several key procedures and requirements. It is crucial to understand the visa application process, assemble all necessary documents, and ensure you have valid travel insurance.


Sweden does not offer visa on arrival, thus applications must be submitted through recognized channels such as Teleport or VFS Global. Ensuring compliance with Sweden's entry regulations is essential for a smooth transition upon arrival.


With careful planning and adherence to guidelines, Indian travellers can anticipate an enriching experience in Sweden, with its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and dynamic cities.


For further questions or assistance, our team is here to help. Reach out to us at 0 73148 52914 or via WhatsApp.


Safe travels and enjoy your Swedish adventure!


FAQs

Can I enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times with a Sweden visa?

Yes, if your Sweden visa has a "MULT" entry marked on it, you can travel in and out of the Schengen area multiple times within the visa's validity period. Just make sure your total stay does not exceed the allowed duration.

Can I work in Sweden with a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not permit you to work in Sweden. You need to secure a work permit with a valid job offer and meet certain Sweden travel visa requirements, such as having a job from the shortage occupation list and applying within your legal stay period.

Do Indian citizens need to give fingerprints for a Sweden visa?

Yes, all applicants over 12 years must provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a photo, at the time of application. If you've given biometrics for a Schengen visa to the Swedish consulate in the last 59 months, they may be reused.

Can I visit other Schengen countries with my Sweden visa?

A Sweden visa allows you to travel to the countries listed on your visa sticker. If you have a Schengen visa with limited territorial validity, you can only visit the specific Schengen states mentioned, up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Can I check the status of my Sweden travel visa application online?

Yes, you can check the status of your Sweden travel visa application online through Teleport or the VFS visa application tracking tool. You'll need your application number and personal information to access your visa status.

Can I extend the validity of my Sweden travel visa if needed?

Extending the validity of your Sweden travel visa is possible in exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure or compelling personal reasons. You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires and provide valid reasons and necessary documentation to the Swedish Migration Agency.

What is a Sweden travel visa, and do I need one for my trip?

A Sweden travel visa is a Schengen visa that allows you to visit Sweden and other Schengen Area countries for short stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Indian citizens and nationals from other countries requiring a visa to enter the Schengen area need one for tourism, business visits, or family visits.

What should I do if my Sweden travel visa application is denied?

If your Sweden travel visa application is denied, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons for the decision. You can either appeal the decision within three weeks or address the refusal reasons and reapply for the visa by submitting a new application with additional documentation.

Is travel insurance coverage a requirement for obtaining a Sweden travel visa?

Yes, obtaining travel insurance coverage is mandatory for a Sweden travel visa. The insurance must cover at least €30,000 for medical expenses and repatriation and be valid for the entire Schengen area for the duration of your stay.

Can I apply for a multiple-entry Sweden travel visa?

Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry Sweden travel visa, which allows multiple entries into the Schengen area. Eligibility for a multiple-entry visa depends on your travel history, the purpose of your visits, and your need to travel frequently to Schengen countries.

Are there age restrictions for applying for a Sweden travel visa?

There are no age restrictions for applying for a Sweden travel visa. Applicants of all ages, including infants and the elderly, must submit a visa application if they require a visa to enter Sweden and the Schengen area. However, the documentation requirements and visa fees may vary depending on the applicant's age.

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