General information about visas

What is a visa and do I need to apply for one in order to visit Sweden?

A visa is a permit allowing individuals of certain nationalities to enter Sweden on a temporary visit. The Swedish Migrationboard maintains a list of all countries whose citizens must obtain a visa in order to enter Sweden.  As a general rule, U.S. citizens visiting Sweden for a period less than 90 days do not need a visa.

However, all foreign nationals – including U.S. citizens – who plan to remain in Sweden more than 90 days need to obtain a residence and/or work permit  before entering the country.

What type of visa should I apply for?

The type of visa you should apply for depends on the purpose of your visit. Please choose one of the following categories and follow the instructions carefully:

• Tourism
• Business or conference
• Visit to relatives and friends, or
• Passing through in transit

I am travelling to several countries that are part of the Schengen area. To which Consulate or Embassy should I submit my application?

If you intend to visit several Schengen countries you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country that is your main destination. If you do not have a main destination you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the country which is your first point of entry.

How can I receive confirmation that my application has arrived?

Due to the large number of applications, the Consulate General of Sweden  will not be able to confirm that we have received your application. If you require such confirmation, please use registered mail or a courier service such as FedEx or DHL, that enables you to track packages online.

How long does it take to process my visa application?

The processing time for a complete visa application is a minimum of 10 business days, in some cases longer. Please note that we do not expedite visa applications.

How can I check the status of my visa application?

We do not give updates on the status of pending visa applications. You will be notified when your application has been processed.

How is my application reviewed?

A visa can be granted if the Consulate General or, in some cases, the Swedish Migration Board, finds that the length and purpose of your visit is the one you have stated in your application. If the Consulate General have reason to believe that you have not provided accurate information, your application will be denied.

My visa has been issued by the Consulate General of Sweden. Can I use this visa to visit any other countries?

Yes, you can. In Sweden, entry visas are governed by the rules of the Schengen Agreement. Under the agreement, visas issued by the Consulate General of Sweden are valid for all Schengen countries, including: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

How do I submit my application?

If you reside in Southern California, you must submit your application in person and by appointment only. Click here to make an appointment:

 If you reside elsewhere, you may submit your application by mail or courier service. Our visiting and mailing address is: 

Consulate General of Sweden
10940 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 700
Los Angeles, CA 90024

Phone: (310) 473 3350
E-mail: consularinfola@foreign.ministry.se 

You may also submit your application to the Consulate General of Norway in San Francisco:

Consulate General of Norway
20 California Street, Sixth floor
San Francisco, CA 94111

Phone (415 )986 0766
E-mail: cgsfo@mfa.no

NOTE: An entry visa does not automatically entitle the holder to enter the Schengen area.  A decision is made every time the traveller passes through a border control, as travellers must have (1) proof of sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of their stay and their return, (2) travel medical insurance, and (3) documents indicating the purpose of their visit.