Swedish Visas for American Citizens
Want to learn about moving to Sweden and getting a Swedish visa? You’ve come to the right place!
I never thought I would find myself in one of the farthest north countries. I guess I always thought I would end up in Australia – which is literally the polar opposite of reality.
I just didn’t think about Sweden. Sure, I knew about it from ABBA, IKEA and hot blonde girls with blue eyes – but to live? Nah.
Making the Decision
One thing I did know was that I wanted to live abroad. I made that decision when I turned 22 – but where? I had chosen Greece to plant my feet – whether they accepted me legally or not. In fact, they did not legally accept me. That is why I am in Sweden in the first place – because Sweden did.
Getting the Visa
My original visa is known as a Sambo Visa, or a relationship visa for moving to a future spouse or cohabitating partner. They usually need to be Swedish citizens or on a visa in Sweden. There are many types of sambo visas, but I think my type is quite common for those who are not married and just want to test out living with their significant other.
Other visas to look into:
Work: This would include being employed by a company (sponsored or re-location), self-employed, or those who’ve lived more than 5 years in another EU country.
Study: A great option if you haven’t struck gold with finding yourself a Swedish lover. Maybe you are just outright adventurous or looking for a new start. This would be the option for you to attend a university in Sweden! It’s never too late to switch it up.
EU Blue Card: I actually just found out about this and at first thought it was a scam, since I have never met anyone with this visa. This card is meant to be more attractive to citizens outside the EU who are experienced professionals. The rules are as follows:
- Non-EU citizenship
- Educated or professionally experienced
- Work contract or binding job offer
Visa Waiting Times for Sweden
Currently, as in 2017, waiting times to process visas can be anywhere from 5-18 months. So you better plan ahead!
Do you have questions about what visa is right for you? Write in the comments below!
BRENT WEST
July 7, 2018In regards to work visa, do you have to have the job prior to applying for the visa or can you get one and then find a job?
Lindsey
July 8, 2018Hey Brent – Yes, you must have been offered the job before you apply for the work visa. You can come to Sweden on a 90-day tourist visa and interview around, but if you land the job, the main rule is that you should apply for and have been granted a work permit before entering Sweden. So you’d have to exit Sweden, apply for the work permit, and then re-enter on that permit once it’s granted.