Sweden is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and a popular travel destination for Indians. Whether you want to visit Sweden for tourism, business, family visit, or short studies, you will need the correct visa. Sweden is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian citizens must apply for a Sweden Schengen Visa for short stays.

This guide explains how Indians can apply for a Sweden visa from India, including visa types, documents, appointment steps, fees, bank balance requirements, processing time, and common rejection reasons.

How Can Indians Apply for a Sweden Visa from India?

Indians can apply for a Sweden visa from India by selecting the right visa type (usually Schengen short-stay), filling the Sweden/Schengen visa application form, booking an appointment through VFS Global, submitting documents and biometrics, paying the visa fee, and tracking the application online. Processing usually takes 15–30 days depending on season and case complexity.

What Type of Sweden Visa Do Indians Need?

Before applying, you must choose the right visa category. Sweden visa types for Indians mainly include :

1) Sweden Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa Type C)

2) Sweden Business Visa (Schengen Type C)

3) Sweden Visitor Visa / Family Visit (Schengen Type C)

4) Sweden Transit Visa

5) Sweden National Visa (Type D) / Residence Permit

✅ Most Indians searching online are usually applying for Sweden Tourist Visa.

Sweden Visa Requirements for Indians (Documents Checklist)

To apply successfully, you must prepare documents properly. Most rejections happen due to weak documentation.

Mandatory documents :

Additional documents (based on your profile):

For business :

For family/friends :

For students :

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Sweden Visa from India

Here is the full Sweden visa process in simple steps.

Step 1: Decide your visa category

Choose:

Step 2: Fill the Schengen visa application form

Enter correct information:

✅ Tip: Your form information must match your documents (hotel, flight, itinerary).

Step 3: Book your Sweden visa appointment in India

Indians normally submit Sweden visa applications through VFS Global.

During appointment booking:

Step 4: Collect all documents neatly

Arrange in sequence:

✅ Tip: Use A4 paper printouts, clear scanning, no messy copies.

Step 5: Visit VFS center & submit biometrics

At the VFS center you will:

Step 6: Track your Sweden visa application

After submission, you can track application status via VFS tracking.

Step 7: Receive passport decision

You will receive passport via:

Sweden Visa Fees for Indians

Sweden visa fees depend on category and age.

Schengen visa fee (standard):

Additional costs:

✅ Visa fee is non-refundable even if rejected.

Sweden Visa Processing Time for Indians

Sweden visa processing time usually depends on season and embassy workload.

Average processing time:

✅ Tip: Apply at least 30–45 days before travel.

You can usually apply up to 6 months before the travel date.

How Much Bank Balance Is Required for Sweden Visa for Indians?

This is a very important question. Sweden is strict about financial proof.

Your bank statement should show:

Recommended minimum bank balance:

It depends on trip duration, but generally:

Also you should show:

✅ Strong financial profile increases approval chances.

Cover Letter and Itinerary for Sweden Visa (Important)

A cover letter is like your “visa story.” It must be clear and honest.

Your cover letter must include:

Itinerary should include:

✅ Keep itinerary realistic. Avoid too many cities in a short time.

Common Reasons for Sweden Visa Rejection (Indians)

Sweden/Schengen visa rejection can happen if your documents are weak.

Top reasons:

✅ Tip: Always provide strong ties to India:

Tips to Increase Sweden Visa Approval Chances

Follow these practical tips:

1) Apply early

Don’t apply in the last 10 days. It creates pressure.

2) Provide clean documentation

3) Show stable income

Even if the bank balance is good, consistent income matters.

4) Avoid last-minute deposits

Sudden ₹2–3 lakh deposits just before applying looks suspicious.

5) Ensure travel insurance is correct

Insurance must be:

6) Keep bookings refundable

Use genuine and refundable hotel booking options.

Sweden Visa for Indians : Tourist vs Business vs Family Visit

Many people get confused. Here is simple understanding:

Tourist Visa:

Business Visa:

Family Visit:

✅ Choose the visa type correctly. Wrong type increases rejection risk.

Can Indians Apply for Sweden Visa Online?

Indians can fill forms and book appointments online, but biometrics and document submission must be done physically at the VFS center.

So, the process is:

FAQs : Sweden Visa for Indians

1. How can Indians apply for a Sweden visa from India?

Indians apply through VFS by booking appointments, submitting documents, giving biometrics, and paying fees.

2. Is Sweden a Schengen visa?

Yes. Sweden is part of Schengen, so you apply for Schengen Visa Type C for short visits.

3. How long does a Swedish visa take for Indians?

Usually 15 working days, but can take 20–30 days during peak season.

4. What is the Swedish tourist visa fee for Indians?

Standard Schengen fee is €90 for adults, plus VFS service charges.

5. How much bank balance is required for a Sweden visa?

For safe approval, show ₹1.5–₹3 lakh for 7–10 days, more for longer trips, with stable income.

6. Can I apply for a Sweden visa without ITR?

You can apply, but ITR strongly increases trust. Without ITR, you need stronger bank + income proof.

7. Is travel insurance mandatory for a Sweden visa?

Yes. It must cover a minimum €30,000 and be valid for the whole trip.

8. What are common Sweden visa rejection reasons?

Weak finances, unclear purpose, fake bookings, and lack of strong ties to India.

9. Can I get a multiple entry Sweden visa?

Yes, if you have a strong profile and travel plan. The final decision depends on the embassy.

10. How early should Indians apply for a Sweden visa?

Apply at least 30–45 days before travel. Applications are accepted up to six months in advance.

Final Words

Applying for a Sweden visa from India is not difficult if you follow the correct steps and submit proper documents. The key is to prepare a strong file with correct information, clear purpose, good financial proof, and a realistic itinerary. Sweden is strict about documentation, so always focus on clarity and honesty.

Planning to visit Sweden from India? Contact Us to start your visa application.

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