Overview
Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Sweden
Sweden, a Scandinavian gem, offers a captivating blend of stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. From the historic charm of Stockholm to the breathtaking beauty of the Swedish Lapland, Sweden promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Why Visit Sweden?
- Vibrant Cities: Explore the historic city of Stockholm, with its stunning archipelago and world-class museums. Discover the charming city of Gothenburg, known for its maritime heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
- Stunning Natural Landscapes: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swedish Lapland, with its snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and the enchanting Northern Lights. Visit the picturesque countryside, with its rolling hills, forests, and coastal towns.
- Rich Culture and History: Immerse yourself in Sweden’s rich cultural heritage, with its Viking history, medieval castles, and modern design.
- Delicious Cuisine: Indulge in Sweden’s culinary delights, from traditional Swedish meatballs to innovative Nordic cuisine.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Sweden depends on your preferred activities:
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- Winter (December-February): Perfect for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in the Swedish Lapland.
- Spring (March-May): Enjoy the blooming spring flowers and mild weather.
- Autumn (September-November): Experience the stunning autumn foliage and cultural festivals.
Currency:
The official currency of Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK).
Population:
Approximately 10 million people.
Things to Know Before Visiting:
- Visa Requirements: Indian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit Sweden.
- Language: Swedish is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Etiquette: Swedes value politeness, punctuality, and personal space.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Sweden, but it is appreciated for exceptional service.
Must-Visit Cities:
- Stockholm: The capital city, renowned for its stunning archipelago, historic center, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Gothenburg: Sweden’s second-largest city, known for its maritime heritage, charming canals, and beautiful parks.
- Malmö: A modern and dynamic city, with a strong focus on sustainability and design.
Get ready to be enchanted by the beauty and elegance of Sweden!
Identify your Visa Type
A Tourist Visa is ideal for those visiting Sweden for leisure, tourism, or to visit friends and family. To be eligible, you must have strong ties to your home country, such as a job, property, or family.
Documents Required
Based on the checklist provided, here are the documents you may need:
For Employed Individuals:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Cover letter stating the purpose of visit
- Employment contract
- Salary slips of the last three months
- Bank statements of the last three months
- Leave letter from employer
- Travel itinerary
For Self-Employed, Business Owners, and Government Employees:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Cover letter stating the purpose of visit
- Business registration certificate
- Income tax returns of the last three years
- Bank statements of the last three months
- Travel itinerary
For Retired Individuals:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Cover letter stating the purpose of visit
- Pension certificate
- Bank statements of the last three months
- Travel itinerary
For Housewives:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Cover letter stating the purpose of visit
- Spouse’s employment or business documents
- Joint bank accounts
- Travel itinerary
For Unemployed Individuals:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Cover letter stating the purpose of visit
- Affidavit of support from a sponsor
- Sponsor’s financial documents
- Travel itinerary
Note: All documents must be copied from original or provided as certified copies. If your documents are not in English, you may need to provide certified translations.
Please note that the specific requirements may vary, so it’s essential to consult the official website of the Swedish Embassy or VFS Global for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Begin Your Application
- Download the Visa Application Form: Download the application form from the Austrian Embassy website.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the form accurately and completely.
- Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents.
- Attend the Appointment: Submit the completed application form, required documents, and pay the visa fees.
Photo Specifications
- Face Clarity: The face should be clear, well-lit, and without shadows.
- Head Position: The head should be straight, facing the camera directly.
- Eye Visibility: Eyes should be open and clearly visible, not obscured by hair or glasses.
- Background: Plain, light-colored background without patterns or objects.
- Photo Quality: High-resolution, sharp focus, and natural skin tones.
- Headwear: Generally not allowed, except for religious reasons. If worn, the face must be fully visible.
- Glasses: Permitted, but avoid tinted lenses and ensure eyes are clear.
- Expression: Neutral facial expression with a closed mouth.
Specific Dimensions:
- Face Height: 32-36mm
- Photo Size: 35mm x 45mm
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your passport photo meets the necessary standards and avoid delays in the application process.
Do you need Appointment Assistance?
Once you’ve completed your visa application form, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at a VFS Global Service Center. During this appointment, you’ll provide biometric information, which includes your fingerprints and a digital photo. Our Visa Expert Team will assist you with procuring appointments.
Important Notes:
- Individual Appointments: Each applicant, including family members, must book a separate appointment.
- Confirmation: After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with the appointment details.
Remember to arrive on time for your appointment to avoid any delays in the visa processing.
Submission Process
On the day of your appointment:
- Arrive on Time: Plan to arrive 15 minutes early.
- Bring Necessary Documents: Have your completed application form, passport, and supporting documents ready.
- Biometric Information: You will need to provide your fingerprints and a digital photo.
- Payment: If you haven’t already paid the visa fees online, you can pay them at the center.
- Accompaniment: Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Important Notes:
- Biometric Requirements: Most visa applicants must provide biometric data.
- Exemptions: Certain categories of applicants, such as children under 12 and heads of state, may be exempt.
- Security Measures: Security checks, including bag searches, may be conducted.
- Respectful Behavior: Treat the staff with respect and avoid any abusive or threatening behavior.
Please note that the specific procedures may vary slightly depending on the specific Visa Application Center and the type of visa you are applying for.
Processing Timeline
Typically, your Swedish visa application will be processed within 15-20 calendar days from the date it reaches the Embassy in New Delhi.
Important Notes:
- Regional Processing Times: Applications submitted to VFS offices outside of New Delhi may take an additional 2 days due to postal delivery times.
- Tracking Your Application: You can track the status of your application online or via SMS by texting “VISA SE” and your passport number to 57333.
Please note that these are estimated processing times and actual processing times may vary.