If you're living in Sweden and want your family to join you, you'll need to navigate the Sweden family visa process, officially known as a residence permit for family reunification. The rules are specific, and they changed in 2025, so it's important to have the latest information for 2026 applications. This guide walks you through exactly who qualifies, what you need to prove, and how to apply through Migrationsverket.
Who qualifies for a family permit in Sweden
You can apply for a Sweden family visa for certain relatives if you hold a permanent residence permit, a temporary residence permit as a refugee or person in need of protection, or if you're an EU/EEA citizen with right of residence. Eligible family members typically include spouses, registered partners, and common-law partners (cohabiting partners). Children under 18 are also eligible, and in some cases, other dependent relatives may qualify.
For a spouse residence permit Sweden, you must prove you have a genuine relationship. Migrationsverket will look at how you met, time spent together, and future plans. If you're not married, you'll need to show you've lived together previously. Remember, the sponsor in Sweden must be able to support the family.
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Income and housing requirements you must meet
This is often the toughest part. The sponsor in Sweden must prove they can support the family from the first day the family member arrives. For 2026, you need a stable income from employment or a business, after tax and housing costs. There's no set single figure, as it depends on family size, but you must show income meets the "normative level" for subsistence. You can check the current amount on Migrationsverket's website.
You also need a home that's suitable in size and standard. A rental contract or proof of ownership is required. It must have a kitchen, bathroom, and enough rooms. A one-room apartment (a studio) is usually only sufficient for a couple without children.
Step-by-step application with Migrationsverket
Most applications for a Sweden family visa are submitted online. The family member abroad usually starts the application on Migrationsverket's website. You'll need to pay an application fee, which for 2026 is 2,000 SEK for an adult and 1,000 SEK for a child under 18. Gather all documents first: passports, relationship proof (like marriage certificates), income statements, employment contracts, and housing details.
After submitting online, the family member abroad books an appointment at a Swedish embassy or consulate to provide fingerprints and show original documents. Then, you wait. Keep all your information updated with Migrationsverket if anything changes.
Processing times and how to appeal a decision
Processing times vary wildly. In 2026, expect to wait anywhere from 6 to 16 months for a complete application. It depends on the embassy's caseload and if your case is straightforward. You can check current average times on Migrationsverket's website.
If your application is denied, you have three weeks to appeal. The letter of refusal explains how. It's often wise to get help from a migration lawyer at this stage. Don't submit a brand new application for the same purpose if you're appealing.
Key updates from the 2025 reforms
The rules changed in 2025, and they apply for 2026. The main update is the introduction of a maintenance requirement for all sponsors, including refugees. Before, refugees were exempt. Now, everyone must meet the income and housing rules. The language requirement for the sponsor was also removed. Another change is that the permit for family members is now more often aligned with the sponsor's permit length.
These reforms aimed to streamline the process but made the financial bar universal. It's crucial you calculate your post-tax income correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much income do I need for a spouse visa?
There's no single number. You need enough after tax and housing costs to support both people according to Sweden's normative level for subsistence. For two adults in 2026, you should budget for at least 10,000-12,000 SEK per month after rent is paid.
Can I work while my family visa application is processing?
No, the family member applying from abroad cannot move to or work in Sweden until the permit is granted.
What proof of relationship is needed for a common-law partner?
You'll need to show you've lived together for a sustained period, ideally with joint leases, official mail to the same address, or shared finances. Photos and travel tickets help support the story.
Does the Sweden family visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes, after living in Sweden on a temporary residence permit for family ties for a certain period (usually 3 years), you can apply for permanent residence if you still meet the requirements.
Can I speed up the processing time?
Not really. Ensure your application is complete and error-free from the start. Missing documents cause the longest delays.