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Eritrea passport → Sweden

Sweden visa for citizens of Eritrea

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short-stay)

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Sweden and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Application site

Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Short-stay)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
EntriesMultiple entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letter

How to apply

  1. 1

    Determine visa type and gather documents

    Identify that you need a Schengen tourist visa; collect all required documents per the checklist.

  2. 2

    Complete online application form

    Fill the Schengen visa application form on the Migrationsverket or VFS website.

  3. 3

    Schedule an appointment

    Book an in-person appointment at the Sweden embassy or VFS Global center in your jurisdiction.

  4. 4

    Pay visa fee

    Pay the €80 government fee plus service fee (if applicable) at the centre.

  5. 5

    Attend biometric appointment

    Submit your application, fingerprints, and photo in person.

  6. 6

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 15 to 30 calendar days.

  7. 7

    Collect passport

    If approved, collect your passport with visa sticker by courier or in person.

Documents checklist

Travel

  • Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)

    Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned departure from Schengen area.

  • Travel health insurance

    Minimum coverage of €30,000 for entire Schengen stay.

  • Flight itinerary / round-trip reservation

    Name, flight numbers, dates as in application.

  • Proof of accommodation

    Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host in Sweden.

  • Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)

    Optional

    Helpful for travel history.

Financial

  • Proof of financial means

    At least €45 per day of stay; bank statements or payslips.

  • Sponsorship letter (if supported by third party)

    Optional

    Must include sponsor's passport copy and proof of funds.

Employment

  • Employment letter / proof of leave

    From employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

  • Completed visa application form

    Print and sign after filling online.

  • Recent passport-style photograph

    Must meet ICAO guidelines (35x45mm, white background).

  • Police clearance certificate (if over 18)

    Optional

    May be requested; validity 6 months.

  • Marriage / birth certificates (if applicable)

    Optional

    For family visit applications.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €45 per day of stay

  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Payslips
  • Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements

Cash is not accepted as sole proof; must show steady financial means.

Good to know

  • Applications from Eritrea may face longer scrutiny due to overstay risk.
  • All documents not in Swedish or English must be officially translated.
  • Appointment slots may be limited; book well in advance.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or fraudulent documentation

Double-check all requirements and provide genuine, up-to-date papers.

Insufficient proof of ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property in Eritrea.

Previous overstay or visa violation in Schengen area

Do not apply until any ban period is served; disclose any past issues honestly.

FAQ

Do citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Sweden?

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Sweden and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short-stay).

How long can citizens of Eritrea stay in Sweden?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Sweden visa cost for citizens of Eritrea?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Sweden visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Eritrea need for Sweden?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed visa application form; Recent passport-style photograph; Travel health insurance; Flight itinerary / round-trip reservation; Proof of accommodation; and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Sweden?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.migrationsverket.se/English/Private-individuals/Visiting-Sweden/Apply-for-a-visit-visa.html. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

Plan your trip to Sweden

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