How long can I stay in Sweden on a business visa?

The Sweden Business Visa (C-visa) allows for a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is standard across all Schengen member states.

Can I visit other European countries with this visa?

Yes, because Sweden is part of the Schengen Area, a business visa issued by Sweden allows you to travel to any other Schengen country for business or tourism.

What activities are permitted under a business visa?

Standard business activities include attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, and fact-finding missions. It does not allow you to take up employment with a Swedish company.

Can I work in Sweden on a business visa?

No, the business visa is for short-term stays only. If you intend to work for a Swedish employer long-term, you must apply for a specific Work Permit.

Is it possible to extend my business visa while in Sweden?

Generally, you cannot extend a Schengen visa while in Sweden unless there are exceptional circumstances like force majeure or humanitarian reasons.

Where do I submit my application?

You should apply at the Swedish Embassy, Consulate, or their designated visa application centre in the country where you legally reside.

What happens if my visa application is refused?

If your application is rejected, you will receive a standard form explaining the reasons. You have the right to appeal the decision within three weeks of receipt.

Do I need an invitation letter from a Swedish company?

A formal invitation from the Swedish host company is mandatory. It must specify the duration, purpose of the visit, and who will cover the travel expenses.

visa type country

business visa

Sweden Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Sweden Business Visa is a short-stay Schengen visa designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and employees travelling to Sweden for corporate purposes. This visa is essential for those from non-exempt countries who need to attend meetings, conduct negotiations, or participate in industry conferences within the Swedish territory. While it facilitates commercial engagement, it is important to note that this visa does not serve as a work permit and does not allow for long-term employment in the country. Securing a Sweden Business Visa requires a clear demonstration of your professional intent and ties to your home country. Applicants must provide a formal invitation from a Swedish host organisation and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay. As Sweden is a member of the Schengen Area, a business visa issued by the Swedish authorities typically allows for free movement across 29 European countries, provided Sweden remains the primary destination of the trip. Please note that visa policies are subject to change; always verify requirements with the official Swedish embassy or consulate before applying.

Key highlights

Valid for short-term business trips up to 90 days
Grants access to the entire Schengen Area for business purposes
Specific for board meetings, conferences, and site visits
Requires a formal invitation from a Swedish host company
Standardised application process via VFS Global or Swedish Embassies
Mandatory travel insurance coverage of at least €30,000
Processing typically completed within 15 calendar days

Processing time

15 calendar days

During peak travel seasons or for complex cases, processing may be extended to 45 days. It is recommended to apply at least 3 weeks before departure.

Estimated cost

~$130 - $160

Standard Schengen Visa Fee€90 (approx. $98)
Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45 (approx. $49)
External Service Provider FeeVariable

Requirements

Applicant must be a citizen of a country that requires a visa for the Schengen Area.
The purpose of the trip must be strictly related to business or professional activities.
Passport must have been issued within the last 10 years.
Invitation letter from the Swedish host company including registration numbers.
Applicant must possess a valid return ticket or proof of onward travel.
Proof of professional status (e.g., employment contract or business license).
Verification of sufficient funds (the Swedish Migration Agency generally suggests 450 SEK per day).
No entry bans or alerts in the Schengen Information System (SIS).
Clean criminal record and no threat to public policy or national security.
Biometric data (fingerprints) must be provided during the application process.

Documents you'll need

Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond stay
Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
Two recent passport-sized photos meeting ICAO standards
Personal cover letter explaining the purpose of the business trip
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary
Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage for the Schengen area
Proof of financial means (bank statements from the last 3 months)

How to apply, step by step

1
Determine where to apply
Identify the correct Swedish Embassy, Consulate, or visa application centre (like VFS Global) based on your residence.
2
Fill out the application form
Complete the official Schengen Visa application form accurately; ensure you select 'Business' as the primary purpose of stay.
3
Compile your document file
Gather all required documents, including your Swedish invitation letter, proof of funds, and travel insurance.
4
Book an appointment
Book an appointment at the visa application centre. Walk-ins are generally not permitted for Swedish visa services.
5
Submit and pay fees
Attend your appointment to submit your documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
6
Attend an interview (if required)
In some cases, the Swedish authorities may request a brief interview to verify the business intent of your trip.
7
Track and collect your passport
Monitor your application status online. Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the centre or via courier.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your Swedish invitation letter is on official letterhead and signed by an authorised proxy.
Double-check that your travel insurance specifically mentions coverage for 'Sweden' or 'Schengen Area'.
Do not buy non-refundable flight tickets until the visa is granted; a flight reservation is usually sufficient.
Provide a detailed letter from your current employer stating your position and the necessity of the trip.
Ensure all documents are translated into English or Swedish by an official translator if they are in another language.
Maintain a consistent itinerary that aligns with the dates mentioned in your business invitation.

Frequently asked questions

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Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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