Buddy Hive
4 min read · Jun 27, 2024
Bringing your loved ones to Sweden for a short visit is an exciting experience, but the visa process can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re living in Sweden and planning to invite your family members from India, this guide will help you understand the complete process of applying for a Swedish tourist visa.
Understanding the Swedish Tourist Visa:
A Swedish tourist visa is a type of Schengen visa that allows the holder to travel to Sweden for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is ideal for tourists, including family members visiting from abroad. It’s important to note that each family member who needs to enter Sweden must have their own visa, even minors.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for a Swedish tourist visa, applicants must prove they have a reason to visit (such as family tourism), sufficient funds to cover their stay, and a return ticket. They must also demonstrate that they have accommodation arrangements, such as a hotel booking or an invitation from a host staying in Sweden.
Validity and Duration:
The visa typically allows travel within the Schengen area for up to 90 days. It is crucial to apply well in advance of your travel date to ensure you receive your visa on time.
Required Documents:
These are the list of documents from VFS Global if you are applying from India:
- Application for Schengen Visa (№119031) attached with 1 photograph not older than six months with white background (3.5 cm/4.5 cm).
- Original and copy of passport or some other valid travel document. If passport has been extended please enclose a copy of this page & copy of the observation page (if any).
- Previous Passports available — irrespective of their condition (In case lost — a note is required)
- Proof of lodging such as Hotel reservation, rental document of holiday home or campus residence reservation for the entire duration of the planned stay in the Schengen area. For applicants who plan to stay in several Schengen countries, proof of travel itinerary (e.g. ticket bookings for transport between different countries in addition to hotel reservations).
- Certificate from the travel agency confirming booking of an organized trip or any other appropriate document indicating the travel plans.
- Copy of original Marriage Certificate and Birth Certificates of children.
- Flight reservation of return ticket. If travelling to several Schengen states, proof of intra-Schengen flight reservation, train itinerary or car rental.
- Overseas travel medical insurance valid for all Schengen-countries. The insurance has to cover the applicant for at least 30,000 Euros or equivalent.
- Documentary evidence of the applicant’s professional activity:
- For Employees: pay slips for the last three months, employment contract and employers statement on approval of holidays.
- For Student: letter confirming enrolment in the college /university.
- For Self-Employed: PAN registration and bank statements covering the last 3 months/Company Registration proof.
- For Pension: Pension statement for the last three months or proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.
- Proof of financial means:
- Copy of bank statements covering the last 3 months and any other document that may provide information about the applicant’s solvency.
- Income tax declaration for the last two assessment years.
- If Sponsored: Proof of Sponsorship.
- The consent of the parental authority or legal guardian should be required only if the minor travels alone or only with one parent.
- Is applicant’s travel accompanied? If Yes, mention number and names of co-travellers.
The Application Process:
Easiest way to apply for a tourist visa is through VFS office which is closest to your city of living in India. Overall the following describes step by step process:
- Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents as listed above.
- Schedule an Appointment in VFS office: Book an appointment at the closest VFS office.
- Submit Your Application: Attend your appointment, submit your application, and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for Processing: Visa processing times can vary, but it generally takes about 15 days. Some cases may take up to 30 days, depending on the specifics of the application.
Tips for preparing for the Interview:
While not always required, an interview may be part of the application process. Be prepared to answer questions about:
- Your reasons for visiting Sweden.
- Your relationship with the family members traveling with you.
- Your plans during the stay.
Conclusion:
Applying for a Swedish tourist visa for your family can be a straightforward process with proper preparation. By gathering the correct documents and following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth application process. Remember to apply well in advance of your travel dates to accommodate any unexpected delays.
We encourage you to share your experiences or any questions you might have in the comments below. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others who might benefit from it as well!
Useful links:
- Migrationsverket tourist visa page requirement — https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/Private-individuals/Visiting-Sweden/Visit-Sweden-up-to-90-days---apply-for-a-visa.html
- VFS Global page — https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/swe/
- VFS tourist visa checklist — https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/sweden/india/english/pdf/sweden-tourist-checklist-jun-2022.pdf
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