Sweden Visit Visa – Complete Guide for Canadian Residents

Canadians planning a trip to Sweden don't usually need a visa for short visits. But, if you're a Canadian resident who isn't a citizen, you might need a Sweden Visit Visa. This visa makes it easier to travel for tourism, family visits, business, or medical reasons. Here’s what you should know before you apply:

  • It lets you stay in Sweden and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.
  • It facilitates tourism, visiting family, business trips, events, or getting medical care.
  • Canadians do not need a visa, but residents of other countries might.
  • One visa allows you to visit Sweden and 25 other Schengen countries.
  • You can choose between a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, depending on what you need and can document.

Sweden Visit Visa Complete Guide for Canadian Residents

*Want guidance to apply for a Sweden Visit Visa? Sign up with Y-Axis for complete support with the process.
 

What is a Sweden Visit Visa?

A Sweden Visit Visa functions as a short-stay Schengen visa, enabling non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to enter Sweden for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or medical care. It allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day window. Depending on travel needs and history, it can be issued for single or multiple entries.

This visa allows entry to all Schengen Area countries. Visitors can travel to other participating European nations as long as they follow the 90/180-day rule.
 

Why Apply for a Sweden Visit Visa?

Sweden offers a mix of scenic landscapes, cities, and Nordic traditions. This visa lets you enter all Schengen countries for various activities.

  • Visit famous Swedish cities and historical places.
  • Attend global conferences, expos, or meetings.
  • Travel to nearby countries without needing more visas.
  • Get short medical care or wellness treatments.
  • Meet up with friends or family in Sweden or close by.

Types of Sweden Visit Visas

The primary types of Sweden Visit Visas for various purposes and durations are given below.

  • Tourist Visa
  • Family or Friend Visit Visa
  • Business Visa
  • Conference or Event Visa
  • Medical Treatment Visa
  • Airport Transit Visa

Types of Sweden Visit Visas

Tourist Visa

A Sweden Tourist Visa, categorized as a short-stay Schengen visa (Category C), enables people from countries that need a visa to visit Sweden for tourism or recreation. Stays are limited to 90 days within a 180-day stretch. This visa suits those wanting to see Sweden’s nature, cultural spots, or historical places, or for those who just want a vacation.

With this visa, visitors can also travel to other Schengen countries within the 90-day limit. This visa does not allow work, study, or long-term residence. Applicants have to prove they will return home and that they have enough money for their visit.
 

Family or Friend Visit Visa

The Sweden Family or Friend Visit Visa, a short-term Schengen visa (Category C), enables people from certain countries to visit family or friends in Sweden for up to 90 days every 180 days. It's good for personal visits like family reunions or special events.

Those applying need an invitation letter from their host in Sweden, plus papers verifying their relationship and the host's legal status. Similar to other short-term visas, this one does not allow work or long-term stays, and travelers must prove they plan to go back home after their visit.
 

Business Visa

A Sweden Business Visa, a short-term Schengen visa (Category C), enables people from countries that need a visa to go to Sweden for business. This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day window. It's for people who will attend meetings, negotiations, trade shows, conferences, or company events in Sweden.

Those applying need to give a formal invitation letter from the Swedish company or group they plan to visit. They should include documents that show the trip's details and length. Note that this visa doesn't allow paid work in Sweden; it's only for brief professional visits.
 

Conference or Event Visa

A Sweden Conference or Event Visa, a type C Schengen visa for short visits, permits people from countries that require a visa to enter Sweden for a maximum of 90 days within a half-year frame. This visa is for taking part in conferences, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, or cultural, scientific, or academic events.

This visa suits those who are attending or presenting at professional or public meetings. Applicants need to submit either an invitation letter or a registration confirmation from the event organizers in Sweden. This visa does not allow for paid work or long stays. Visitors have to show they have enough money, travel insurance, and a solid plan to go back home after the event.
 

Medical Treatment Visa

A Sweden Medical Treatment Visa, classified as a short-stay Schengen visa (Category C), allows people who need a visa to enter Sweden for planned medical care or meetings with doctors. It is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day span. It applies to non-emergency situations like scheduled surgeries, specialist meetings, or short-term treatments in Swedish hospitals.

To apply, one must have a referral or confirmation from a Swedish hospital, details of the treatment plan and costs, and proof of funds. Medical travel insurance is needed. This visa does not cover long-term care or public healthcare in Sweden.
 

Airport Transit Visa

A Sweden Airport Transit Visa, a Category A Schengen visa for brief stays, allows travelers from specific countries needing visas to pass through the international area of a Swedish airport on their way to a place outside the Schengen area. It is for those who have a stopover in Sweden but do not plan to enter the country or go through border control.

This visa only works for airport transit; it does not allow entrance into Sweden or any other Schengen country. People applying need to give proof of their confirmed ongoing flight, a valid visa for their final spot (if needed), and proof they can afford their trip.
 

Who Needs a Sweden Visit Visa?

Canadians with a passport can visit Sweden for up to 90 days without a visa. But, those living in Canada with passports from countries that need a visa must apply for a Sweden Visit Visa. This applies to:

  • Canada PR (permanent residence) holders
  • International students
  • Temporary foreign workers

Sweden Visit Visa Eligibility Criteria

Canadians applying for a Sweden Visit Visa need to meet the eligibility criteria given below.

  • A passport should be valid for at least six months.
  • Proof of legal residence in Canada is needed (PR card, or study or work permit).
  • Applicants need to show they can afford their expenses while in Sweden.
  • Evidence must be given to show you plan to return to Canada after your visit.
  • A detailed travel plan with a valid reason for visiting is necessary.
  • Travel insurance needs to cover at least €30,000 in medical costs.

Sweden Visit Visa Eligibility Criteria

Sweden Visit Visa Requirements

When applying for a Sweden Visit Visa, ensure you provide the documents given below:

  • A completed Schengen visa application form.
  • A passport that is valid, with enough blank pages.
  • Two recent passport-sized photos.
  • Proof of your legal residency in Canada, such as a PR card, visa, or permit.
  • Your travel plans, including flight and hotel bookings.
  • Documents that prove you have enough money for your trip, such as bank statements or an employment letter.
  • Travel medical insurance that covers the Schengen area.
  • An invitation letter, if you're visiting family or friends, or going to an event.

Sweden Visit Visa Fees

Detailed information about the fees for Sweden Visit Visa is given below.

Visa Category

Applicant Group

Fee (Approx. in CAD)

Short-Stay Schengen Visa

Adults (18 and above)

$120

Short-Stay Schengen Visa

Children aged 6–12 years

$60

Short-Stay Schengen Visa

Children under 6 years

Free

Airport Transit Visa

All eligible applicants

$120

Service/Biometric Charges

All applicants

Additional (varies by center)

 

Sweden Visit Visa Processing Time

Detailed information about the processing time for Sweden Visit Visa is given below.

Application Type

Estimated Processing Time

Short-Stay Visit Visa (Tourism, Family, Business, etc.)

15–30 calendar days

Airport Transit Visa

15–30 calendar days

Medical Treatment Visa

15–30 calendar days

Conference or Event Visa

15–30 calendar days

Peak Season (Summer, Holidays) Applications

May take longer than 30 days

Recommended Application Timeline

At least 4–6 weeks before travel

 

How to Apply for a Sweden Visit Visa from Canada?

The process to apply for a Sweden Visit Visa is given below.

Step 1: Determine the correct visa for your trip, be it for tourism, family visits, business, or medical care.

Step 2: Complete the Schengen visa application and sign it before submission.

Step 3: Organize the necessary documents.

Step 4: Submit your application and give your biometric data.

Step 5: Get your passport back with the Sweden Visit Visa.

How to Apply for a Sweden Visit Visa from Canada

Sweden Visit Visa Validity and Duration of Stay

The validity and duration of stay offered by a Sweden Visit Visa are given below.

Visa Type

Validity Period

Maximum Duration of Stay

Entry Type

Short-Stay Visit Visa

Up to 180 days (varies by issuance)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period

Single or Multiple Entry

Tourist / Family / Business

Same as above

Up to 90 days per visit

Single or Multiple Entry

Airport Transit Visa

Valid for transit date(s) only

No stay permitted (airport zone only)

Transit Only

 

Tips for a Successful Sweden Visit Visa Application

  • Make sure the application is complete and consistent with all supporting documents.
  • Give clear proof of the trip's purpose and ability to pay for it.
  • Do not send any false or unconfirmed documents.
  • Add proof of plans to return to Canada, like job verification or school enrolment.
  • Apply early to avoid delays when travel is at its peak.

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis, a top immigration and visa consultancy, gives expert advice to people wanting to travel overseas for tourism, business, education, or relocation. With a reputation in Canada, Y-Axis gives expert support during the Sweden Visit Visa process, making sure the application is smooth and meets all rules.

Our services include:

  • Assessing if you are eligible and advising on the correct visa type.
  • Aiding in the organization and checking of all needed papers.
  • Guiding you in getting ready proof of funds and travel insurance.
  • Helping you fill out application forms correctly.
  • Giving constant help and updates until you get your visa result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Schengen Visa and a Sweden Visit Visa?
A Sweden Visit Visa falls under the Schengen Visa category and is needed when Sweden is your primary destination or first entry point into the Schengen area. This visa permits travel within Sweden and the other 26 Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day window. Although all short-stay Schengen visas share standard regulations, the application must be made via the country where you intend to spend the majority of your visit. Thus, if your trip centers around Sweden—be it for tourism, work, or seeing relatives—you should apply for the Schengen visa via Swedish authorities.
When should I apply for a Sweden Visit Visa?
It is advisable to submit your Sweden Visit Visa application 4 to 6 weeks before your intended travel date. Visa processing typically takes 15–30 calendar days, but it could take longer during busy times or if more papers are required. You can apply up to 6 months early, or 9 months if you are a seafarer. Applying early allows sufficient time to schedule appointments, gather documents, and handle any unforeseen delays.
Can I include family members in my application?
No, you cannot include family members in the Sweden Visit Visa application. Every person, regardless of age, needs to apply separately for a Sweden Visit Visa. A group or family appointment to submit all applications at once is possible. Applicants under 18 must include parental permission, a birth certificate, and paperwork from both parents or legal guardians. Though applications may be submitted together, each one is judged on its own merits. To prevent delays or denials, it is vital that everyone in the family has complete and consistent documents.
Can I visit other countries in Europe with a Sweden Visit Visa?
Yes, you can visit other countries in Europe with a Sweden Visit Visa. A Sweden Visit Visa is a short-term Schengen visa, allowing travel to all 26 Schengen area countries, like France, Germany and Italy. Note the 90/180 rule, where your stay cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen zone. Apply via the country where you'll stay the longest or first enter. Make sure your travel plans and lodging match your application to prevent problems at the border.
How do I show proof of accommodation for Sweden Visit Visa?

When applying for a Sweden Visit Visa, you need to give proof of your lodging plans for the whole time you're there. You can provide the following types of proofs.

  • Hotel bookings that show your name, the dates you're checking in and out, the address, and your booking number.
  • If you are staying with relatives or friends, a letter from them is okay. It should have your full name, when you'll be staying, their address, and a copy of their passport or residence permit.
  • If you are going to different cities or countries in the Schengen Area, give all the booking confirmations.

The lodging details should match the dates and plans of your trip.

How long does it take to process a Sweden Visit Visa?
Generally, Sweden Visit Visa applications are processed within 15 to 30 calendar days after submission. Processing times can increase during peak travel periods like summer or winter holidays due to a higher number of applications. It is best to apply 4 to 6 weeks before your intended travel. Incomplete applications or those requiring extra checks may experience delays. Thorough and clear preparation of your application could lead to quicker processing.
Is a visa interview required for a Sweden Visit Visa?
A Sweden Visit Visa does not require a formal interview. You will need to be present when you submit your application, so you can give your fingerprints and photo. Sometimes, the embassy might ask for an interview if they need more details. This could happen if your paperwork is not complete, or they have questions about why you are traveling or if you plan to return home. To help make things go faster, make sure your application is complete and consistent, and that all your documents are easy to read and believable.
Is it mandatory to book travel insurance for my visa application?
Yes, travel insurance is required for all Schengen visa applications, including Sweden Visit Visa. Your insurance should cover at least €30,000, be valid in all Schengen countries, and last for your whole trip. It must pay for medical emergencies, hospital stays, and getting you back home if needed. If your insurance doesn't meet these requirements, your visa could be denied. Make sure the certificate shows the correct coverage and travel dates, and keep a printed copy with you while traveling.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Staying past the allowed date on your Sweden Visit Visa can cause problems, like fines, being banned from entry, and trouble getting Schengen visas later. The Schengen system tracks when people enter and leave, so it's easy to spot when someone stays too long. Should you find yourself in a situation where you might not leave on time because of an emergency, it is essential to get in touch with the local immigration offices right away so you can explain what is happening. It is important to avoid staying longer than permitted, as it could affect your ability to travel and your chances of getting approved for visas from other countries.
Can I apply for another Schengen Visa while holding a valid Sweden Visa?
If your Sweden visit visa remains valid for your travel dates, there is no need to apply for a new Schengen visa. You can travel to other Schengen countries as long as your visa allows multiple entries and you comply with the 90/180-day limit. Note that a single-entry visa will not allow re-entry once you exit the Schengen zone. Before planning additional trips, it's a good idea to confirm your visa's validity, the number of entries allowed, and the days you have left.