Student and Tourist Visa to Sweden (2024–2026)

How the application works

Citizens of Kyrgyzstan need a visa to travel to Sweden, as the country is part of the Schengen Area.

There are two main types of stay permits:

• a short-stay category C Schengen visa

• a long-stay category D visa or a residence permit

If studies last less than 90 days, a category C visa is sufficient.
If studies exceed 90 days, a residence permit (a student permit) must be arranged.

Applications for long-term study are reviewed by the Swedish Migration Agency, and applying online is the preferred and most convenient option.

Types of visas

1. Category C Schengen visa

Suitable for:

• tourism

• short trips

• visiting relatives

• short-term study (up to 90 days)

Key features:

• stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period

• arranged through visa centres

• requires the submission of biometric data

• valid throughout the Schengen Area

2. Long-stay student visa / residence permit

Suitable for:

• studying at universities

• long-term educational programmes

• stays of more than 3 months

Key features:

• arranged through the Swedish Migration Agency

• most often submitted online

• proof of enrolment is required

• you must prove sufficient financial means

How to apply for a visa

1. Choosing the type of visa

• study of up to 90 days → category C visa

• study of more than 90 days → residence permit (category D)

2. Submitting documents

• short-stay visa: through accredited visa centres

• long-stay visa: through the online portal of the Swedish Migration Agency

• submission is made by prior appointment

3. Biometrics

• submitting fingerprints and a photograph is mandatory

• carried out at a visa centre or consulate

• some applicants are exempt from resubmitting if data has been provided previously

Core set of documents

• international passport

• completed visa application form

• photographs to the required standard

• proof of the purpose of the trip (invitation or enrolment)

• proof of accommodation

• proof of sufficient financial means

• health insurance (for a category C visa)

• educational documents (for a student visa)

• additional documents upon request

Processing times

• category C Schengen visa: approximately 15–45 days

• residence permit: timeframes may be considerably longer (depending on workload and the type of application)

Submitting documents

• personal attendance is mandatory when providing biometrics

• submission is made only by prior appointment

• it is recommended to submit long-stay visa applications online

Important points

• the visa decision is made by the consulate or the Swedish Migration Agency

• submitting documents does not guarantee that a visa will be issued

• complete and correct documentation is required

• for long-term study a residence permit must be arranged

• additional documents may be requested

Summary

• Tourism and short-term study → category C visa

• Long-term study → residence permit (through the Migration Agency)

• Submission → visa centres or online

• Biometrics are mandatory

• Key factor → proof of purpose, finances and documents