The Swedish residence permit for family reunification allows foreign nationals to join their spouses, registered partners, or cohabiting partners residing in Sweden. This permit is granted to couples in a genuine, long-term relationship who intend to live together in Sweden. The permit provides rights to live and work in Sweden and is typically valid for two years, after which it can be renewed.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a residence permit for family reunification, the applicant and the Swedish resident sponsor must meet certain eligibility criteria:
- Relationship Requirement: The applicant and sponsor must be in a genuine, committed relationship.
- Swedish Residency: The sponsor must be a Swedish citizen or hold a permanent or temporary residence permit.
- Financial Requirements: The sponsor must be able to financially support both the applicant and themselves.
- Accommodation Requirement: The sponsor must have suitable housing for the couple.
- Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
Relationship Requirements
The applicant must be in one of the following types of relationships with the Swedish resident sponsor:
- Spouse: Legally married to the Swedish resident sponsor.
- Registered Partner: Legally registered as a partner with the Swedish resident sponsor.
- Cohabiting Partner: In a de facto relationship, having lived together continuously for at least two years.
Proof of the relationship may include shared financial records, lease agreements, travel history, photos, and letters of support from friends and family.
Required Documents
The following documents are generally required for a Swedish family reunification residence permit application:
- Marriage or Partnership Certificate: Proof of marriage or registered partnership if applicable.
- Proof of Relationship: Photos, joint financial records, travel records, and communication history.
- Identification Documents: Passports for both the applicant and sponsor.
- Proof of Housing: Rental contract or ownership documents showing suitable housing in Sweden.
- Proof of Financial Stability: Bank statements, tax returns, or employment contracts showing the sponsor’s financial capacity.
- Police Clearance (if required): Police certificates from any country where the applicant has resided for over 12 months.
- Medical Insurance: Health insurance proof if required by Swedish immigration.
Application Process
The application process for a Swedish residence permit for family reunification consists of several steps:
- Prepare Required Documents: Collect and prepare all necessary documentation to support the application.
- Complete Online Application: Submit the application through the Swedish Migration Agency’s online portal.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: If requested, attend a biometrics appointment to submit fingerprints and photographs.
- Submit Additional Information (if required): Immigration may request additional information or documents to verify the relationship.
- Interview (if required): An interview may be conducted with the applicant and/or sponsor to further assess the application.
- Receive Decision: The Swedish Migration Agency will process the application and notify the applicant of the decision.
Fees and Payment
The fees for a Swedish residence permit for family reunification vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and location. Typical fees include:
- Application Fee: Approximately SEK 2,000, though this may vary.
- Biometrics Fee: Additional charges may apply for biometrics.
- Additional Costs: If translations or document certifications are needed, additional fees may apply.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Swedish family reunification residence permit can vary based on several factors:
- Standard Processing: Typically, applications are processed within 9-15 months.
- Complex Cases: Cases requiring additional verification or interviews may take longer.
Key Points to Remember
- All required documents should be translated into Swedish or English if necessary.
- Ensure your relationship meets Sweden’s requirements for genuine and stable partnerships.
- Provide detailed evidence of a genuine relationship to avoid delays.
- The Swedish sponsor must have adequate housing and financial capacity to support the applicant.
- Applicants may need to travel to a biometrics center for fingerprinting and photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in Sweden with a residence permit for family reunification?
- Yes, holders of a Swedish family reunification residence permit can work in Sweden without restrictions.
- How long is the residence permit valid?
- The permit is usually valid for two years, after which it can be renewed if the relationship is ongoing and other requirements are met.
- Is health insurance required for the residence permit?
- Yes, applicants may need to provide proof of health insurance, especially if they are initially moving to Sweden from outside the EU.
- Can I apply for permanent residency after holding this permit?
- Yes, after a period of continuous residence, typically four years, you may be eligible for permanent residency in Sweden.
- What happens if my application is denied?
- If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision or reapply with additional evidence.
Official Website
For the latest and most accurate information, visit the official Swedish Migration Agency website.