The Swedish government has announced that it will introduce a new passport requirement for those applying for residence permits.

Key Points:

  • Beginning Nov. 1, individuals who are applying for or renewing their Swedish residence permit must present their passport in person at a Swedish embassy or consulate or at Swedish Migration Agency locations. This is applicable to those who are applying for:
    • Work permits or permits for self-employment.
    • Permissions for students and researchers.
    • Permissions to live with a relative in Sweden.
    • Visas and permissions to visit Sweden or extend a visit.
  • Swedish immigration authorities will not adjudicate residence permit applications until they have verified applicants’ passports.
  • The in-person passport requirement will apply to new and pending applications as of Nov. 1.

Additional Information: Individuals who are applying for asylum, residence cards, permanent residence cards, permanent right of residence or permanent resident status are exempt from the in-person passport requirement. More information regarding the in-person passport requirement is available here.

BAL Analysis: The Swedish government introduced the in-person passport requirement to increase security and mitigate fraudulent activity. Those who are applying for residence permits should expect increased processing times and delays when booking appointments at local embassies or consulates.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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