The Residence Permit Process #
To legally study in Sweden, all students need a passport valid for three months beyond the end of their semester. All students, except EU and Norwegian passport holders, must also apply for a residence permit for visits longer than 90 days. Depending on their passport nationality, some students also need an entry visa.
The Swedish Migration Agency establishes immigration rules and regulations. Our goal is to make the multi-step process as straightforward as possible. Students will be emailed a comprehensive guide and three supporting documents to be submitted with their application. Do not begin until you have received our guide. Follow the directions carefully to ensure you apply for the correct permit and receive it in time for departure. Submitting an incomplete or incorrect application can significantly delay your permit and departure date.
The process depends on your passport nationality. Students applying with a passport that is not on the Government of Sweden’s official list of foreign citizens who require a visa for entry into Sweden will follow a 4- step process. If your passport nationality is on this list, see the 3-step process below.
- Submit an online application for a visitor’s permit to study in Sweden for longer than 90 days
- Complete a digital passport check
- Receive a residence permit decision letter before departing for Sweden
- While in Sweden, submit biometric data and receive a residence permit card
The Residence Permit Guide will provide additional details for completing these steps. Do not begin until you’ve received the guide.
Students applying with a passport that is on the Government of Sweden’s official list of foreign citizens who require a visa for entry into Sweden will apply concurrently for an entry visa and follow a 3-step process. If your passport nationality is not on this list, see the 4-step process above.
- Submit an online application for a visitor’s permit to study in Sweden for longer than 90 days
- Visit the Embassy of Sweden in Washington, D.C. for a passport check and to submit biometric data*
- Receive the residence permit decision letter and residence permit card before departing for Sweden
*Given this requirement, the Program will provide reimbursements toward the cost of travel up to:
- $400 for transportation to/from Washington, D.C. (airfare, train, bus, parking, gas, etc.)
- $45 for meals
- $275 for one night in a hotel (as necessary)
The Residence Permit & Entry Visa Guide will provide additional details for completing these steps and receiving travel reimbursement. Do not begin until you’ve received the guide.