Bringing Your Family to Sweden – Residence Permit Guide
Sweden is a country that values family unity, and as such, offers residence permits for family members of individuals living in Sweden. If you are a resident in Sweden and wish to bring your family, including your spouse, children, or even parents, to join you, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to navigate the process.
Who Can Apply for a Family or Spouse Visa?
Sweden’s family reunification policy allows foreign nationals to bring their close family members to live with them. The following family members are eligible to apply for a residence permit to join you in Sweden:
1. Spouse or Registered Partner
If you are legally married or in a registered partnership with someone, they can apply for a residence permit to join you in Sweden. Both opposite-sex and same-sex couples are eligible.
2. Children
Children under the age of 18 who are dependent on you can be included in your application. This also includes adopted children and stepchildren, provided the family relationship is recognized under Swedish law.
3. Parents or Other Relatives
In certain cases, parents or other dependent relatives can apply for a residence permit. This is typically available if you can show that you provide essential financial support for your family members and they depend on you financially and emotionally.
Required Documents & Proof of Relationship
When applying for a family or spouse residence permit to Sweden, you will need to provide various documents to prove the authenticity of your relationship and your ability to support your family financially. Below is a comprehensive list of required documents:
For Spouses or Registered Partners:
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Marriage Certificate: A copy of the marriage certificate or proof of registered partnership.
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Proof of Cohabitation: Evidence of living together or maintaining a committed relationship. This could include joint bank accounts, shared leases, and joint utility bills.
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Personal Identification: Photocopies of passports, national ID cards, or other identity documents for both you and your spouse.
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Proof of Relationship: Additional documents such as photos, correspondence, or testimonies showing the authenticity of your relationship.
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Financial Support: Proof that you can financially support your spouse without relying on public assistance. This includes recent payslips, tax returns, or bank statements.
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Health Insurance: Documentation showing that your spouse will be covered by health insurance while in Sweden.
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For Children:
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Birth Certificate: A copy of the child’s birth certificate.
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Proof of Custody: If applicable, proof of sole or shared custody.
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Proof of Dependency: Evidence that the child is financially dependent on you (e.g., school enrollment, financial support).
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Health Insurance: Like with spouses, children must have health insurance coverage.
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For Parents or Other Relatives:
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Proof of Dependency: Documentation proving that the relative is financially dependent on you (e.g., bank transfers, financial records).
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Family Relationship Documents: Birth certificates or other proof of your familial relationship.
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Proof of Accommodation: Evidence that you have adequate housing for your family member(s) in Sweden.
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Note: All documents must be translated into English or Swedish if they are in another language.
Application Process & Timelines
The application process for a family or spouse visa to Sweden involves several important steps. Follow the guidelines below to ensure a smooth application experience:
1. Submit the Application:
You can apply for a family or spouse residence permit online through the Swedish Migration Agency website. Alternatively, you may be able to submit a paper application depending on your circumstances. The process will vary slightly depending on your country of residence, but the general steps are as follows:
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Online Application: Visit the Swedish Migration Agency’s website, complete the online application form, and upload the required documents.
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Paper Application: If applying on paper, download the application form from the website, complete it, and submit it along with the necessary documents at the nearest Swedish consulate or embassy.
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2. Pay the Application Fee:
The application fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, for a family or spouse visa, the cost is SEK 1,500 (approximately €130 or USD 140). Children are typically exempt from this fee.
3. Interview (if necessary):
In some cases, the Swedish Migration Agency may request an interview with you or your family member(s) to verify the relationship and confirm your ability to support them financially.
4. Decision:
Once your application is submitted, it can take anywhere from 1 to 12 months to receive a decision. The processing time will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the volume of applications the Migration Agency is handling. The Migration Agency may contact you if additional information is required.
5. Residence Permit Card:
If your application is approved, your family member will receive a residence permit card, which grants them the right to live and work in Sweden for the duration of their permit.
6. Residence Permit Validity:
The residence permit is usually issued for one or two years, depending on your situation. After this period, your family member can apply for an extension or permanent residency in Sweden if they meet the requirements.
Key Timelines to Keep in Mind
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Family or Spouse Visa Processing Time: Typically, 3 to 12 months. However, it can vary based on your specific situation.
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Application Fee: SEK 1,500 (approximately €130 or USD 140), with exemptions for children under 18 years.
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Extension and Permanent Residency: After living in Sweden for two years, your family members may be eligible to apply for an extension or permanent residency, provided they meet certain conditions.
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Final Thoughts
Bringing your family to Sweden through a family or spouse residence permit can be a straightforward process as long as you provide all the required documentation and meet the necessary criteria. Whether it’s your spouse, children, or parents, Sweden offers a welcoming environment for families to reunite and build a future together. What is the Procedure What is the procedure of Divorce & Its Impact on Residence Permits in Sweden
For more detailed information and to apply for a family or spouse visa, visit the Swedish Migration Agency website or contact your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate.