Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden
1. Schengen Visa for non-EU citizens
Required for travel to Gothenburg if you're not from the Schengen Area. Allows a stay of up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
- Application Process: Can be done at the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Required Documents: Includes passport, application form, photos, travel medical insurance, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Processing Time: Varies depending on the embassy but can take several weeks.
2. Visa Waiver Program for US Citizens
Allows a stay of up to 90 days in Sweden without a visa. Must register online before arrival.
- Online Registration: Must be done at least 72 hours before departure.
- Eligibility: Limited to US citizens and travelers with e-passports.
- Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 90 days in a 180-day period.
3. Swedish Visitor's Visa for longer stays
Required if your stay exceeds 90 days. Can be issued for tourism, visiting family/friends, or business.
- Application Type: Different types available based on purpose of visit.
- Processing Time: Can take several weeks, so apply well in advance.
- Extension Possibility: Can be extended while in Sweden, but requires approval.
4. EU/EEA citizens
Do not need a visa for travel to Gothenburg. Can stay in Sweden without restrictions.
- Travel Document: Only requires a valid national ID card or passport.
- Registration: Not required for EU/EEA citizens.
- Work Opportunities: Can work temporarily in Sweden without a permit.
5. Swedish Work Visa
Required for employment in Gothenburg. Application process involves the employer and Migration Agency.
- Employer Involvement: Employer is responsible for applying on your behalf.
- Skills Shortage: More likely to be granted if the job cannot be filled by a Swedish citizen.
- Permit Duration: Can vary based on job and skills, up to several years.
6. Business Visa for meetings/conferences
Required for business activities in Gothenburg. Allows for short-term stay.
- Invitation Letter: Invitation letter from the Swedish company is necessary.
- Duration: Maximum stay is typically 90 days in a 180-day period.
- Application Process: Can be done at the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country.
7. Student Visa for study programs
Required for enrollment in a full-time program. Allows for extended stay.
- Application Process: Involves both the Swedish Migration Agency and the educational institution.
- Study Duration: Length depends on the program, up to several years.
- Work Rights: Allows part-time work during studies and full-time after graduation.
8. Transit Visa for layovers in Sweden
Required if you're passing through Gothenburg on your way to another country.
- Travel Documents: Requirements vary based on country of origin.
- Duration: Maximum stay is usually between 24 and 72 hours.
- Transit through Schengen Area: A single transit visa allows passage through multiple Schengen countries.
9. Family Reunion Visa for relatives
Required to join a family member in Gothenburg. Allows for extended stay.
- Relationship with Swedish Resident: Must prove relationship with the resident in Sweden.
- Application Process: Involves the Swedish Migration Agency and the family member in Sweden.
- Duration: Can vary based on circumstances, up to several years.
10. Working Holiday Visa for young adults
Allows for work and travel in Sweden. Available to citizens of select countries.
- Eligible Countries: Only available to citizens of certain countries.
- Duration: Usually valid for one year, with possibility of extension.
- Work Opportunities: Limited to specific jobs and industries.
11. Residence Permit for permanent stay
Required for long-term residency in Gothenburg. Can lead to Swedish citizenship.
- Application Type: Different types based on purpose of residence.
- Process Time: Can take several months to a year.
- Work Rights: Allows full-time work without restrictions.
12. Citizenship Application for permanent residents
Allows you to become a Swedish citizen. Requires meeting certain criteria.
- Residency Requirements: Must have lived in Sweden for several years.
- Language Skills: Swedish language proficiency is required.
- Integration Course: Successful completion of a Swedish integration course is necessary.
13. Registration upon arrival for EU/EEA citizens
Required to reside in Sweden for more than three months. Register at the Tax Agency.
- Documentation: Includes passport and proof of address.
- Registration Location: Can be done at a Tax Agency office or online.
- Importance: Required for access to public services and benefits.
14. Swedish ID Card for permanent residents
Required for identification purposes. Issued after residency permit.
- Application Process: Can be done at the Tax Agency office.
- Validity: Typically valid for five years, with possibility of renewal.
- Benefits: Allows access to various Swedish services and benefits.
15. Travel Medical Insurance for Schengen Visa
Required when applying for a Schengen Visa. Covers medical expenses during your stay.
- Coverage Amount: Coverage must be at least €30,000.
- Validity: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Sweden.
- Insurer Requirements: Must be issued by an approved insurance company.