Sweden, with its mesmerizing Northern lights, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable experience for tourists. The Sweden tourist visa grants you access to this Scandinavian gem, allowing you to explore its wonders and immerse yourself in its unique culture.

What is Sweden Tourist Visa? Commonly referred to as the Sweden Schengen tourist visa, this visa is intended for individuals planning to visit the Kingdom of Sweden for tourism purposes. The visa permits a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. The exact duration and validity of the visa are determined by the embassy. The visa can be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry permit, depending on your travel requirements.

How to Apply for Sweden Tourist Visa? The Embassy of Sweden has delegated the application process for Sweden tourist visas in India to Visa Application Centers (VACs) located across the country. Thus, it is mandatory to submit your Sweden tourist visa application through these centers. The application process is offline. Here are the steps to apply for a Sweden Tourist Visa:

1. Collect all required documents as per the tourist visa document checklist.
2. Visit the VAC website or the Embassy of Sweden’s official website to download the Schengen application form.
3. Accurately complete the application form, indicating your purpose of travel as ‘tourism.’
4. Schedule an appointment at your convenience at either the VAC or the Embassy. Note that embassy slots may be limited and involve longer waiting times, making it highly advisable to apply through a VAC.
5. Visit the chosen VAC or Embassy with the necessary documents, completed application form, and payment of fees. Biometric data will also be collected during this visit.

Important Note: If you have previously submitted biometrics for a Schengen permit within the past 5 years, there is no need to resubmit them. In such cases, you may authorize a third party to submit your application with a letter of authorization signed by you.

Additionally, it is vital to emphasize that only genuine documents and accurate information should be submitted to avoid the risk of visa rejection.

Eligibility for Sweden Tourist Visa: To qualify for a Swedish tourist visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Residence: You should be residing in the country where you are applying for the visa. If you hold a residence permit in a foreign nation, you may apply at the corresponding visa issuing authority in that country.
• Valid Passport: Possess a valid passport that adheres to all embassy requirements.
• Purpose of Visit: Your visit should be solely for tourism and related activities.
• Sufficient Funds: Demonstrate adequate financial means to cover all expenses during your entire stay in Sweden.
• Apply for the visa only if:
  • Sweden is your sole destination.
  • Sweden is one of your primary Schengen destinations, where you will spend the majority of your time.
  • Sweden is your port of entry into the Schengen region.

Documents Required for Sweden Tourist Visa: As per the requirements for a Sweden tourist visa for Indian citizens, the following documents are typically required:

• Valid passport with a minimum of 2 blank pages, not older than 10 years, and valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended travel date. Include previous passports, if applicable.
• A covering letter with the applicant’s details, source of funds, purpose of tourism, and duration of the visit. The letter must be signed by the applicant and addressed to the Embassy of Sweden.
• Round-trip flight reservations.
• Detailed travel itinerary.
• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitations, residence bookings, etc.).
• Medical travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros.
• Proof of occupation (employment letter, copy of a business license, etc.).
• Financial documents (bank statements for the past 3 months, passbook copies, ITR, etc.).

Photo Specification for Sweden Tourist Visa:

• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm.
• Color: Colored.
• Head should occupy the central position.
• Taken within the last 3 months.
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey.
• Face should cover 80% of the photograph.
• Neutral expression.
• Non-thick framed prescription glasses allowed.
• Headgear allowed for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

Processing Time for Sweden Tourist Visa: The processing time for a Swedish tourist visa application depends on factors such as the visa’s validity, number of entries, embassy workload, and your previous travel history. In normal circumstances, processing takes around 15 working days. However, in exceptional cases, it may extend to 30 or even 60 days.

Sweden Tourist Visa Fees: The application fees for a Swedish tourist visa are subject to foreign exchange rates and embassy decisions. The embassy reserves the right to modify fees without prior notice. Besides the visa application fee, there may be additional charges, including biometric fees, passport delivery fees, and service charges levied by the VAC. Therefore, it is crucial to confirm the exact fee amounts before commencing your application.

After Submission: Once you have submitted your application at a VAC, it is forwarded to the Embassy of Sweden for processing. It’s important to note that even if you applied at a VAC, the processing is solely handled by the embassy, and the VAC has no influence on it. Furthermore, Consulates of Sweden do not accept or process visa applications.

If your visa application is approved, you can collect your passport in person at the VAC or embassy or opt for delivery through the VAC, subject to an additional charge.

How to Check Visa Status: You can track the status of your Sweden tourist visa application by visiting the official website and entering your reference number and date of birth. Alternatively, your travel agency can assist in tracking your application.

While Holding a Tourist Visa: Once you possess the tourist visa, take note of the following key points to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay:

• Verify the visa’s expiry date, duration of stay, and number of entries as indicated on the visa sticker. Strictly adhere to these during your travels.
• Always carry all your travel documents while traveling, as entry into Sweden is not possible without them.
• Ensure you travel to Sweden within six months of the visa issue date or as specified on the Schengen sticker. After this period, your entry permit becomes invalid, barring entry.
• While exploring Sweden, keep copies of your travel documents with you.
• While on a tourist permit, you cannot engage in paid work for a Swedish company or establishment.
• Generally, tourist visas are not extendable under standard conditions.
• The tourist permit allows you to move freely within the Schengen zone.