How to apply

The description below applies to you if you are the citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA and wish to move to live with a family member who is also a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA or is a Swedish citizen.

Applying online

Information about online application can be found at the Swedish Migration Agency’s web page: Online application for residence permit to move to someone in Sweden - Migrationsverket.

Once you have sent in your application, the family member you want to move to, will automatically receive an email with instructions and questions. The family member must reply to the questions within two weeks. If your family member does not receive an email, please make sure to check the spam inbox before contacting the Swedish Migration Agency.

Applying at the Embassy

Prepare the documentation

Find information on the Swedish Migration Agency's website about what documentation is required in your case. Applications that are handed in with all the required documentation will receive a decision faster.

Book an appointment

Before visiting the Embassy, you need to book an appointment to hand in your application. You book an appointment by filling out this web form. After the Embassy has received your request, we will send you an e-mail with information on when you can come to apply. 

Apply at the Embassy

Bring the completed application form with you, together with all the required documents. You will be required to pay a fee.

When you have handed in your application, the Embassy will send your application with all supporting documents to the Swedish Migration Agency. 

Wait for a decision

The Swedish Migration Agency may ask you to book an appointment at the Embassy for an interview or a passport check. Appointments for interviews are booked via this link (Book an appointment - Sweden Abroad). For passport checks, you can visit the Embassy without an appointment during its opening hours Monday- Thursday, 09:00-11:00.

You will be informed by e-mail when the Swedish Migration Agency has taken a decision. You can receive a copy of your decision if you visit the Embassy and identify yourself by passport or ID-card. Your employer or contractor will be informed of the decision by post. If your application is rejected, the Embassy will send a copy of the decision to your home address. You have three weeks to appeal your decision starting from the day you receive your decision.

Residence permit card

If you are granted a permit for more than three months, you will receive a residence permit card. If you do not need a visa to travel to Sweden, you can book an appointment at the Swedish Migration Agency (Book, change or cancel appointments for visits - Migrationsverket) to order a residence permit card (have your fingerprints and photograph taken).