Applying for a residence permit to study in Sweden

Applying on online

1. Prepare your documentation
Check which documents and personal data you need. The Swedish Migration Agency gives priority to applications that are completed in full, and you get a decision sooner.

You can find required documents on the Swedish Migration Agency website and under ‘Required documents’ 

2. Submit your application
Follow the Swedish Migration Agency's instructions and submit your application online. You attach documents electronically and pay the application fee using a VISA card or a MasterCard. Family members use the same online application if they apply at the same time as you.

The online application goes directly to the Swedish Migration Agency for processing and a decision.

3. Passport Control
The Swedish Migration Agency introduces new rules for better passport checks for residence permit applicants. The Migration Agency will contact affected applicants when they need to visit the Consulate General for passport and identity control.

4. Wait for the decision
When the Swedish Migration Agency has reached its decision, they will inform you by email. After your decision has been made, you can contact the Consulate.

You can check the status of your case from the Migration Agency website with your file number.

5. Wait for the residence permit card
If you are granted a permit for more than three months, you will be issued a residence permit card. If you gave biometrics when you visited the Consulate for passport control, you don't need to visit again until your permit card arrives. 

It can take up to four weeks for the residence permit card to be made and delivered to the Consulate. Once the card has arrived here, you should visit the Consulate during the visiting hours. Get information about our visiting hours. Do not forget to bring your passport.

If you do not require a visa to enter Sweden

If you are granted a permit for more than three months and do not need a visa, you don't need to give biometrics and visit the Consulate again after the decision. You travel to Sweden and arrange for the card there.

Yet, your residence permit must have been granted before you move to Sweden.

Contact the Swedish Migration Agency to learn about photographing and fingerprinting.