So What Now?

When starting your application it's good to be prepared that it could be a long process, with many different parts and obstacles. On this page, we wanted to gather some basic info regarding a couple of the more important things to know when applying.

FAQ

*This is general information and neither can nor should replace legal advice in the individual case,

but supposed to be an exchange of ideas/thoughts on how to structure, shape and proceed with your application

Do we need to be married before starting the application?

No, you don't have to be married to start your application. As long as you are in a relationship (girlfriend/boyfriend/partners/sambo) you are good to go.

Is there a set waiting time?

When going on immigrations website you'll be able to get a rough estimate of the general waiting time of your case. All cases are different, some take longer than others and there is no rhyme or reason as to why. We tell people it can be anything from 6-14 months and the most important part is just to be patient.

I'm a student and want to bring my partner, is that possible?

Will was a full time student when Morgan was accepted, and as long as you fulfill the maintenece requirments there shouldn't be any issues.

I've never met my partner in real life, can we still apply?

We are strong believers that you can have incredible relationships online. However, immigration tends to prefer you to have met in real life. There is no set limit, but a number between 2-3 weeks is often mentioned regarding this subject.

Can I apply while I'm in Sweden?

No. You will have to leave Sweden to apply. However, you don't need to go to your home country, another country such as Denmark will suffice. However, there is an option to apply from within if you have circumstances that meet immigrations requirements. See this article.

We've never lived together, will that be an issue when applying?

There's no rule that claims you've needed to live together before moving to Sweden, but it can help in a sense that immigration may see you as more established couple if you have.

My partner in Sweden isn't making enough to cover the maintenence requirement, can I help him with my money?

As it is written on the website, it is supposed to be soley based on the partners money and income, even if you are married.

Can I visit Sweden while my application is ongoing?

Yes, but timing is important. Before the interview your visit will have no impact on the process, while after it will pause your process until you have left Sweden as immigration can not make a decision while you're in Sweden.

Do I have to finish the application in one sitting?

After starting the application a link will be sent to your email, and it will be saved for the following 14 days. Which means you have plenty of time to go through it and finish it in multiple sittings.

Does my partner need a full time job to apply?

There is no hourly/percentage limit stipulated for the maintenance requirement. The main part is that you need to be able to show on paper that your income covers the amount, and in most cases this requires a contract that states that amount.

Do I need a passport to apply?

You will need a passport to apply, so you can support your identity. Your passport doesn't need to be brand new, but if you are granted residency you can only get a permit that lasts the duration of your passport. Hence, you want to have +2 years on it when applying.

How do I prove we are in a real relationship?

Its all about telling your story and backing it up with pictures, chat logs, bookings, documents and other things that will support your claims in your application. We cover it in this article below.

I live with my parents, can I bring my partner while doing so?

Unfortunately you need to to have your own place when applying. There have been cases of people living in the same building as their parents, where for example they have had access to a separate apartment with it's own entrance. However this follows it's own set of requirements.

How do I prove we are in a real relationship?

It's all about telling your story and backing it up with pictures, messages between each other, bookings for flights trains etc, documents and other things that will support your claims in your application. We cover it more in this article below.

Do I need an immigration lawyer to help us with the application?

Most people don't find the need to use a lawyer when applying, as most cases are rather straight forward. You can get all the info you need from groups on Facebook, forums or through people like us. Lawyers tend to come into the picture if you have to appeal or if you get in your view a wrongful rejection. When it comes to legal situations, its always best to advice a professional.

What is the most important part of the application?

The whole application in its entirety is what is important. That you are consistent in the story you are telling of your relationship, and that you are able to back those claims up with supporting documents, for example photos, chat logs or flight details.

Is there any way I can speed up the process?

In most cases there is nothing you can do to speed up the process. The most important part is that you fill out the application correctly, and attach all the documents that they need. By doing so, you eliminate the extra step of sending emails and requests of information back and forth with the agency.

Can I add documents to my case after we've submitted our application?

Yes you can! Just send an email to migrationsverket@migrationsverket.se with the updated information/documents. Don't forget to mention your name and case number in the email.

Can I track my application?

On the agency's website you'll be able to fill out your case number and see what the current status is.

How long is the interview and what kind of questions do they ask?

Depending on the embassy and what the interviewer sees as necessary, it generally spans from 30 min to 3 hours. The questions during the interview is based on the application you and your partner have submitted, which is why its important to be honest both when submitting and during the interview.

How do I contact the immigration agency?

You can call them on: +46 (0) 771-235 235 Mon-Fri, 9am-3pm

Email them on: migrationsverket@migrationsverket.se

If I want to conclude my case, when can I do that and where do I find the form to do so?

Six months after you've submitted your application you can send in a request to conclude your case. This gives the agency four weeks to conclude or refuse your request. Most people advice not to do this until after the interview, as refusal to conclude is common amongst cases who haven't had their interview. Here you can find the form.