Bringing Your Family to Sweden – Residence Permit Guide
Sweden places high value on family unity, and for this reason, it offers residence permits for the family members of individuals already residing in the country. If you are currently living in Sweden and wish to bring your spouse, children, or even dependent parents to join you, there are clearly outlined steps and requirements you must follow to ensure a smooth and legal reunification process.
Who Can Apply for a Family or Spouse Visa
Sweden’s family reunification policy permits certain close family members to join their loved ones who are legally residing in Sweden. If you are legally married or in a registered partnership, your spouse or partner is eligible to apply for a residence permit to join you. This includes both opposite-sex and same-sex couples. Children under the age of 18 who are financially dependent on you can also be included in your application. This includes biological children, adopted children, and stepchildren, as long as the relationship is recognized under Swedish law. In certain exceptional cases, parents or other dependent relatives may apply for a residence permit if you can prove that they are financially and emotionally dependent on you, and that you provide essential support.
Required Documents and Proof of Relationship
Applying for a residence permit for family members requires various forms of documentation to prove both your relationship and your financial stability. For spouses or registered partners, you must submit a marriage certificate or proof of partnership, along with evidence of cohabitation such as shared leases or utility bills. You must also provide identification documents like passports, and further proof of your relationship in the form of photos, communication history, or testimonies. Financial proof is also necessary, including recent payslips or bank statements showing your ability to support your partner without relying on public funds. Health insurance coverage for your spouse must also be documented.
For children, you will need to submit a birth certificate, and if applicable, documentation proving custody. You must also show that the child is financially dependent on you and will be covered by health insurance while in Sweden.
For parents or other relatives, the requirements include documentation showing financial dependency, such as records of money transfers or ongoing support. You’ll also need to provide proof of your familial relationship and demonstrate that you have adequate housing arrangements in Sweden to accommodate them. Please note that all documents not in English or Swedish must be officially translated.
Application Process and Timelines
The application for a family or spouse visa in Sweden typically starts online through the Swedish Migration Agency’s official website. Alternatively, applicants can submit paper applications at the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate. The online process involves filling out an application form, uploading the required documents, and confirming all provided information. If you are using the paper route, you must download the form from the Migration Agency’s website, complete it thoroughly, and submit it along with the required documents in person.
After submitting your application, you are required to pay an application fee. For most family or spouse permits, the fee is SEK 1,500, which is approximately €130 or USD 140. Children under 18 are generally exempt from paying this fee.
In some cases, the Swedish Migration Agency may require an interview with you or your family member. This step is designed to verify the genuineness of your relationship and your ability to support them financially. Once the application is fully submitted, the decision process can take anywhere between one to twelve months, depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications being processed. If the Migration Agency needs additional documents or clarification, they will contact you during the review period.
Once the application is approved, your family member will be issued a residence permit card. This card allows them to live and work in Sweden for the duration specified in the permit. Residence permits are typically granted for one or two years initially. After this period, your family member may apply for an extension or, if eligible, permanent residency.
Key Timelines to Keep in Mind
Processing times for family or spouse visas range between three to twelve months, although this may vary depending on individual circumstances. The application fee is SEK 1,500, though children under 18 are exempt. After two years of living in Sweden under a residence permit, family members may become eligible to apply for an extension or for permanent residency, provided they meet the necessary conditions.
Sweden offers a clear and supportive pathway for families wishing to reunite. Whether you’re bringing a spouse, children, or dependent parents, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and provide all the required documents, the process can be straightforward. A successful application ensures that your family can legally live and thrive alongside you in Sweden.
For up-to-date and detailed information, or to submit an application, visit the official website of the Swedish Migration Agency or consult your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate.