Sweden Visa Guide for Indian Citizens in UK Complete Application Guide 2025
Yes, Indian citizens residing in London need a Schengen visa to visit Sweden. Your nationality Indian means you'll need a visa for Sweden, even if you live in the UK. Apply through the VFS Global Sweden Visa Application Centre in London at 66 Wilson Street, London EC2A 2BT.
Stockholm, Sweden
City Hall & Gamla Stan
Gothenburg, Sweden
Canals & Historic Streets
Malmö, Sweden
Oresund Bridge & Cityscape
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Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Sweden Visa from London with an Indian Passport?
To apply for a Sweden visa from London with an Indian passport, you need to be legally residing in the UK with the proper status.
UK Residency Requirements
- ✓ Must hold a valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or a valid UK residence visa; applications on a visitor visa won't be accepted.
- ✓ Residency permit should be valid for the entire duration of the Sweden visa application process and ideally beyond your planned travel dates.
Basic Eligibility Criterias
- ✓ No strict minimum age, but minors must be accompanied or have parental consent.
- ✓ Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of departure from Sweden.
- ✓ Visit purpose must comply with Sweden's visa categories (tourism, business, study, family visits) and not involve work unless specified by visa type.
Who Cannot Apply
If you're just visiting the UK on a short-term visitor visa or have no valid UK residency status, you won't be eligible to apply from London. Also, those with invalid or expired passports, or whose purpose of travel doesn't fit the allowed categories, should seek other application routes.
Documents Required for a Sweden Schengen Visa for Indian Citizens in the UK
ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Passport: Your passport's got to be valid for at least three months after you plan to leave Sweden. Make sure it’s got at least two blank pages left. Photocopy the main page and any visas or stamps don’t forget this step, as missing photocopies or expired passports are one of the biggest reasons people run into issues.
Schengen Visa Application Form: Fill it in fully, sign it, and double-check for mistakes. Any typos or blank fields could get your application sent back.
UK Residence Permit/BRP: You’ll need to include your Biometric Residence Permit or other proof you’re legally in the UK. The permit or visa must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned return from Sweden. Expired or soon-to-expire UK permits are a common stumbling block if yours is close to running out, sort it out before applying.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
- Flight Bookings: You’ll need proof of round-trip flight reservations or confirmed travel itinerary. Open tickets or vague plans usually aren’t accepted.
- Accommodation: Provide hotel bookings, a rental agreement, or an invitation letter from a host in Sweden. Bookings should cover your entire stay gaps in proof of accommodation can cause delays.
- Travel Insurance: Insurance must be valid throughout the whole Schengen area, and cover at least €30,000 in medical emergencies. The policy certificate should clearly show your name and coverage dates. Policies with limited coverage or unclear documentation are a frequent problem.
STATUS DOCUMENTATION
- Proof of Employment or Study: If you’re employed, attach a recent letter from your employer, dated and signed, stating your position, salary, and approved leave. Students should provide a recent enrollment letter from their UK institution. For self-employed applicants, submit registration and tax documents.
- Bank Statements: Show you’ve got enough funds for your stay typically the last three months’ worth. Incomplete statements or insufficient funds are often flagged.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Family Documentation (if applicable): If traveling with family or joining relatives, include marriage/birth certificates. Originals and certified translations into English or Swedish are necessary.
- Document Translations: Any document not in English or Swedish needs to be officially translated. Submitting originals without translations is a common oversight.
- Other Supporting Docs: Depending on your personal situation, you might need cover letters, previous Schengen visas, or proof of purpose of visit. Double-check the consulate’s checklist missing even a single item here can set you back weeks.
Step-by-Step Sweden Visa Application Process for Indian Citizens in London
Follow these steps to apply from London
Online Application
Start your Sweden visa journey at the Swedish Migration Agency website or through the official VFS Global portal. Complete the application form online, upload your photo, and pay the visa fee before booking your appointment.
Appointment Booking
Book your appointment through VFS Global, which handles Sweden visa applications in the UK. The London center is located in Canary Wharf, and appointments typically cost around £30-40. Book well in advance.
Document Preparation
Organize all required documents including your passport, photos, travel insurance, and supporting papers. Make sure any non-English documents are professionally translated and keep both originals and photocopies ready.
Appointment Day
Head to the VFS Global center at 9th Floor, 109 Marsh Wall, London E14 9SX. Arrive 15 minutes early for security checks. The process usually takes 30-45 minutes and includes document verification, biometric data collection, and brief questions about your travel plans.
Tracking & Collection
Track your application status online using the reference number provided. Your passport will be returned via courier service or you can collect it from the center. Processing typically takes 10-15 working days.
Travel
Double-check your visa details before traveling and carry all supporting documents with you. Immigration officers may request additional verification at the airport.
Sweden Visa Processing Time and Fees for Indian Passport Holders in the UK
PROCESSING TIMELINES
For Indian citizens applying for a Sweden visa from the UK, the standard processing time usually falls around 15 calendar days. However, during peak travel seasons typically spring and summer months this can stretch to about 30 days or more. So, if you're planning a trip around these busy times, expect some extra waiting. The Swedish embassy recommends applying well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
VISA FEES
The standard Schengen visa fee for Indian passport holders applying in the UK is €80, which roughly converts to about £70. For applicants under 18, the fee is reduced to €40 (around £35). These fees are payable in euros but are accepted at the visa application centers in the local currency, so you won't have to worry about currency exchange hassles at the point of payment.
SERVICE FEES
When you submit your application through TLScontact, the official visa application center, they charge an additional service fee of approximately £25 on top of the visa fee. If you want to book a prime time or priority appointment slot, expect to pay a bit extra for that convenience, usually around £15-£20 more.
TIMELINE PLANNING: Given the processing times and potential peak delays, it's best to apply at least 6 to 8 weeks before your intended travel date. This buffer helps handle any unexpected delays or requests for additional documents. Also, keep in mind that you can track your application status online through TLScontact’s portal, giving you peace of mind while you wait. Planning ahead really saves a lot of hassle!
What Are the Financial Requirements for a Sweden Visa for Indian Nationals in London?
DAILY FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
Indian citizens applying for a Sweden visa from London need to show they can cover their daily expenses while in Sweden. The Swedish authorities usually expect you to have at least €40–120 available for every day of your stay, depending a bit on where you’ll stay and what kind of accommodation you’re booking. So, if you’re planning a 10-day trip, you’ll need to show access to at least €400–1,200, but honestly, it’s always safer to have a bit more than the bare minimum.
BANK STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS
You’ll have to provide recent bank statements typically for the last 3 to 6 months that clearly show your name, account number, and regular financial activity. The balance in your account should cover your entire trip plus a small buffer, just in case. They’re looking for proof that you’ve got steady income or savings and that the money isn’t just sitting there for a day or two before you apply.
ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL PROOF
Apart from bank statements, it’s smart to include salary slips, recent tax returns, or an employment letter if you’re working. If you’ve got other income (like rental income or business profits), add proof of that too. The more solid your financial trail, the better your chances.
SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS
If you’re not funding the trip yourself, you can apply with a sponsor maybe a family member or friend in Sweden. In that case, you’ll need the sponsor’s invitation letter, their ID, proof of their own finances (bank statements, payslips), and a signed sponsorship declaration. Make sure all documents are recent and clearly scanned or copied.
Tips to Increase Approval Chances for Sweden Visa Applications from London
COMMON REJECTION REASONS
Insufficient financial proof tops the list for Sweden visa denials. Incomplete documentation, unclear travel purposes, and weak ties to your current residence in London also frequently lead to rejections. Many applications fail because applicants can't demonstrate they'll return after their visit.
PREPARATION STRATEGIES
Start your application at least 6-8 weeks before travel - this gives you time to fix any issues. Organize documents chronologically and create a checklist to ensure nothing's missing. Bank statements should show consistent income over 3-6 months, not sudden large deposits that raise red flags.
SUCCESS TIPS
Your employment letter from your London-based job is crucial - it should clearly state your position, salary, and approved leave dates. Include property documents, utility bills, or rental agreements showing your UK ties. Travel insurance covering your entire stay is mandatory, so don't overlook this. Create a detailed itinerary with booked accommodations and realistic daily plans. Most importantly, be honest throughout your application - inconsistencies between documents will likely result in denial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweden Schengen Visas for Indian Citizens in the UK
Q: Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Sweden from London?
Yes, Indian passport holders do need a Schengen visa for short trips to Sweden whether it’s for tourism, visiting family, business, or study, for up to 90 days. If you’re planning to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit instead. - Always apply through the official Sweden visa process at the VFS Global center in London. - Double-check your visa type before starting your application.
Q: What documents do I need for a Sweden visa application from London?
You’ll need a valid passport (with at least two blank pages and valid for three months after you leave Sweden), a completed visa application form (online starting May 2025), recent passport-sized photos, proof of where you’ll stay, your travel itinerary, insurance covering at least €30,000 for the Schengen area, proof of funds (minimum 450 SEK per day), employment status details, and income tax returns for tourist visas. - Originals and copies are required for all documents. - Make sure your travel insurance actually covers all Schengen countries.
Q: How do I apply for a Sweden visa in London?
Fill out the online application on the Swedish Migration Agency’s site, book an appointment at VFS Global Sweden Visa Application Centre in London, and show up in person for biometric data and document submission. Pay the visa fee either online or at the center, then track your application online. - Keep your appointment confirmation and track your status online for updates. - You’ll pick up your passport when you get notified.
Q: How long does the visa process take, and what does it cost?
It usually takes about 15 working days, but it could be longer during busy travel seasons. The fee is €80 for adults, €40 for kids aged 6–12, and kids under 6 don’t pay. - Apply early if you want to avoid the rush. - Bring exact payment and check fee updates before your appointment.
Q: What financial requirements do I need to meet?
You need to show you’ve got at least 450 SEK per day for your stay (roughly 4,000 INR). You should provide recent bank statements and proof of income or employment. - Keep your documents updated and make sure your bank statements cover the last 3–6 months. - More proof is always better don’t risk getting delayed over missing paperwork.
Expert Review & Official Sources
Expert Verification & Official Sources
This comprehensive guide has been reviewed and verified by Visa Expert Kritika, specializing in European visa requirements and UK-based applications, on September 09, 2025.
Source Verification
All information is cross-referenced with official embassy sources and current immigration policies as of September 18, 2025.
Official Source
We strongly recommend that you always check the official source: https://www.swedenabroad.se/en/embassies/united-kingdom-london/