What is the reference amount, and how large is it?

The reference amount is the amount required for entry into Schengen. This amount is set by the national authorities in each country.

The reference amount for Sweden is SEK 450 per person per day.

What does the Embassy base its decision on?

The Embassy's decision on visa matters is based on the documents submitted to the Embassy, the interview that may have been conducted and information that has emerged in any previous matters concerning visas or residence permits. Based on the documents and the interview, the Embassy makes an assessment of such matters as whether the purpose of the travel has been shown and of whether the applicant has made probable that he/she will return to Iran. Even if all the basic, necessary documents have been submitted, the Embassy's decision may be negative for the applicant. The documents submitted to the Embassy are only one basis for an assessment, and a full application does not automatically mean that the application will be granted.

How do I appeal?

A person applying for a visa can appeal against a negative decision to the Migration Court in Gothenburg. This appeal must be in writing and have been received by the Embassy in Tehran no later than three weeks after the applicant has received the decision.

The applicant must sign the appeal. If a representative writes and signs the appeal, there must also be a power of attorney signed by the applicant.

The appeal must clearly state the decision that is being appealed against. It must also include the applicant's name, date of birth and telephone number.

The appeal may either be submitted directly to the Embassy or sent by normal post to: Embassy of Sweden in Tehran, Section for Migration and Visa Affairs, P.O. Box 19575-458, Tehran, Iran.

Can I apply again if the visa application has been rejected?

Yes, you can apply again directly after you have been notified of the decision. There is no "waiting period" before a new application can be made. All documents must be submitted again, when making a new application.

Can I apply for a visa to visit a friend or relative, or for a business visit without an invitation?

No, everyone applying for a visa to visit someone in Sweden must have an invitation of their own. An invitation for a private/family visit must be completely filled out, be dated and signed and contain all the attachments that are stated in the form. For business visits, all personal information for all those invited must be included, and the purpose of the visit must be clearly stated. The invitation must be signed and dated, and contact information for the inviting company must also be clearly stated. Applications that lack an invitation, where this is required under the list of documents, will not be accepted.

Can I send the invitation directly to the Embassy?

No. The invitation should be sent in the original to the person being invited. The invitation is then submitted by the person applying for a visa together with all the other documents that are to be attached. If the person applying for a visa does not have a correct and fully completed invitation with him/her when applying, the application will not be accepted.