If you’ve applied for a Sweden tourist visa from India, staying updated on your Sweden visa application status is crucial for planning your trip. Sweden is part of the Schengen Area, so Indians need a Schengen visa to enter.
Fortunately, you can easily check your Sweden visa status online through official portals. Understanding the process of how to check Sweden visa status online empowers you to follow up on any delays and make informed travel decisions.
Requirements to Check Your Sweden Visa Status
To check the status of your Sweden visa application online, you’ll need a few key pieces of information:
Reference Number
A unique reference number is assigned to each application. Ensure you have this reference number handy when you want to track your Sweden visa status.
Last Name
Along with the reference number, you need to provide your last name as it appears on your Sweden visa application form. Double-check the spelling to avoid any issues.
Captcha
As a security measure, most Sweden visa portals require you to complete a captcha. This step helps prevent automated bots from accessing the system.
Email and SMS Updates
Another way to know the status of your visa application is to check your registered email ID. VFS sends timely updates on your application progress via emails. You can also sign up for the SMS service offered by VFS to stay on top of your visa application.
How to Check Sweden Visa Status
You can verify your Sweden visa status online through two main methods:
- VFS Global Website: If you applied through VFS Global, the official visa application center for Sweden in India, you can track your application on their website. Enter your reference number and last name to check your Sweden visa processing status.
- Swedish Migration Agency Website: If you applied directly to the Swedish Migration Agency, you can log into your account on their website to track your Sweden visa status. You’ll need your reference number, date of birth, and, in some cases, your passport number.
How to Check Sweden Visa Status Online
Using the VFS Global Website:
Step 1:Visit the Official Website: Go to the officialVFS Global website for tracking Sweden visa applications online.
Step 2: Enter Your Reference Number: Input the reference number provided by VFS Global when you submit your application. It’s a combination of letters and numbers.
Step 3: Enter Your Last Name: Type in your last name exactly as it appears on your visa application and passport.
Step 4: Complete the Captcha: Fill in the captcha or security check as prompted on the screen.
Step 5: Click “Submit”: After entering all the details, click on the “Submit” button.
Step 6: View Your Status: The Sweden visa application status update associated with your reference number will be displayed. It may show as pending, approved, or rejected.
Using the Swedish Migration Agency Website:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website: Go to theSwedish Migration Agency’s official website.
Step 2: Log into “My Page”: Click on “My Page” and then select “Log in” to access your account.
- If you have a username and password, enter those details to log in.
- If you don’t have an account, you can create one using your email address.
Step 3: Navigate to Application Status: Once logged in, look for an option to check your Sweden visa status or application status.
Step 4: Enter Your Details:
- Provide your reference number and date of birth.
- If prompted, enter your passport number as well.
Step 5: Submit the Information: Click on the “Submit” or “Check Status” button after filling in the required details.
Step 6: Review the Status: The website will display your current Sweden visa application status, showing if it’s pending, approved, or rejected.
How to Check Sweden Visa Status by Passport Number
If you’re using the Swedish Migration Agency’s website to track your Sweden visa status, you may have the option to check using your passport number. Here’s how:
Step 1: Log into Your Account: Access your account on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website using your username and password.
Step 2: Go to Visa Application Status: Navigate to the section that allows you to check your Sweden visa status or application status.
Step 3: Choose Passport Number: Select the option to enter your passport number, if available.
Step 4: Input Your Passport Number: Enter your passport number exactly as it appears on the passport you used for your visa application.
Step 5: Click “Check Status”: After entering your passport number, click on the “Check Status” or “Submit” button.
Step 6: View Your Visa Status: Your Sweden visa application status will be displayed, indicating if it’s pending, approved, or rejected.
How to Check Sweden Visa Status Offline
Currently, there is no offline method to check your Sweden visa status for applications submitted in India. The Swedish Embassy in New Delhi does not offer visa application status checks by phone or in person. You must use the online portals of VFS Global or the Swedish Migration Agency to track your Sweden visa status.
While checking your Sweden visa application status is generally straightforward, you may encounter a few common issues:
Using Unofficial Visa Portal
Using the wrong tracking website is a very common mistake. You can either use the VFS Global website to track your Sweden visa application. If you applied through an agent, you’ll need to check their specific portal for updates.
Exceeded Attempts
If you have entered incorrect information too many times on the portal, it can temporarily lock access. You may have to wait for a few hours before trying again.
Delays in Processing
Sweden visa processing can take longer than expected, especially during peak travel seasons. If you don’t see any updates on your Sweden visa status for an extended period, it may simply be due to a high volume of applications at the embassy.
Technical Difficulties
Occasionally, you may face technical issues while trying to check your Sweden visa status online. The VFS Global or Swedish Migration Agency website may be down for maintenance, or you may have trouble logging into your account. In such cases, wait a few hours and try again.
Inaccurate or Incomplete Information
If you enter incorrect details like the wrong reference number, date of birth, or passport number, you won’t be able to retrieve your Sweden visa application status. Double-check that all the information you provide is accurate and matches your application.
Offline Checking Unavailable
Unlike some other countries, Sweden visa status inquiry is not possible with offline methods like phone or in-person for applications submitted in India. The lack of offline options can be inconvenient if you’re having trouble with the online portal for Sweden visa status tracking.
What to Do if Your Sweden Visa is Delayed?
If your Sweden visa application is taking longer than expected, here are some steps you can take:
- Track Your Application: Use the online tools provided by VFS Global or the Swedish Migration Agency to track your Sweden visa status regularly. Look for any updates or changes in the status.
- Contact VFS Global: If you applied through VFS Global and your application is delayed beyond the standard processing time, reach out to their customer support for assistance. They may be able to provide more information or help you follow up with the embassy.
- Email the Embassy: You can send a polite email to the Swedish Embassy in New Delhi, inquiring about the status of your application and any reasons for the delay. Provide your reference number and other relevant details.
- Consider an Appeal: If your visa is denied due to certain grounds, you may be able to file an appeal. However, this should be a last resort if you believe the decision was incorrect or unjustified.
- Plan Ahead: Apply for your Sweden visa well in advance of your intended travel dates. This gives you a buffer in case of delays and allows time for any necessary follow-ups.
Suggested Read: How To Book Sweden Visa Appointment
What Should You Do After a Sweden Visa Rejection?
If your Sweden tourist visa application is rejected, you generally have two options:
Appeal the Decision
If you believe the visa rejection was unjustified or based on incorrect information, you can file an appeal. The process involves submitting a written appeal to the Swedish Migration Agency, along with supporting documents. However, appeals can be complex and time-consuming, with no guarantee of a different outcome.
Reapply for the Visa
In most cases, it’s simpler and faster to submit a new visa application, addressing the reasons for the previous rejection. Review the rejection letter carefully, gather any missing documents, and correct any errors in your application. Then, apply again with a complete and accurate application.
Suggested Read: Sweden Visa Rejection for Indian Travelers: Key Insights
Sweden Visa Appeal Process
If you choose to appeal a Sweden visa rejection, here’s a general overview of the process:
- Review the Rejection Letter: The letter should state the specific reasons for the denial of your visa. Determine if you have grounds for an appeal based on these reasons.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect any additional documents that can help your case, such as proof of financial means, travel itinerary, or letters of invitation.
- Write an Appeal Letter: Compose a clear and concise letter explaining why you believe the visa denial was incorrect. Address each point mentioned in the rejection letter.
- Submit the Appeal: Send your appeal letter and supporting documents to the Swedish Migration Agency within the specified timeframe, usually 3-4 weeks from the decision date.
- Wait for a Decision: The Migration Agency will review your appeal and make a decision. This can take several weeks or even months.
Remember, the appeal process can be lengthy and does not always result in a visa approval.
Suggested Read: How to Secure Sweden Visa Extensions for Indian Tourists
Filing a New Application (Re-Application)
If you decide to reapply for a Sweden visa after a rejection, follow these steps:
- Review the Rejection Reasons: Carefully read the visa denial letter and identify the specific reasons for the rejection. This could be incomplete documentation, insufficient financial means, unclear purpose of visit, etc.
- Address the Issues: Gather the missing documents, provide additional proof of financial stability, or clarify your reasons for visiting Sweden. Make sure you have a strong application that meets all the requirements.
- Complete a New Application: Fill out a new visa application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Double-check all the details before submitting.
- Pay the Visa Fee: You’ll need to pay the visa application fee again for the new application.
- Submit the Application: Lodge your new application at the VFS Global center or the Swedish Migration Agency, following their procedures.
For a step-by-step guide on the Sweden visa application process, refer to OneVasco’s detailed article.
FAQs
1. How to track your Sweden visa application?
Yes, you can track your visa application through VFS. It is the official Sweden visa tracking portal. All you need is your application reference number and last name to stay updated.
2. How to check Sweden visa status online?
You can check your Sweden visa status online. If you applied through VFS Global, use their passport tracking service. If you applied directly to the Swedish Migration Agency, log into your account on their website to view your application status.
3. Can you track your Sweden visa application using your passport number?
No, currently, a Sweden visa check by passport number is not supported at this time. You can track your visa application using a reference number provided by VFS.
4. What information do you need to check your Sweden visa application status?
To check your Sweden visa application status, you need the reference number provided by VFS Global or the Swedish Migration Agency or your passport number (for Swedish Migration Agency website login).
5. How long does it take to process a Sweden visa application?
Sweden visa processing usually takes around 15 working days from the date of submission. However, it can take longer during peak seasons or if additional documentation is required. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time.
6. What should you do if your Sweden visa application gets denied?
If your Sweden visa is denied, you can either appeal the decision or submit a new application. An appeal involves writing to the Swedish Migration Agency and providing additional supporting documents. Reapplying requires addressing the reasons for rejection and submitting a fresh, complete application.
7. What if there are technical issues while checking visa status online?
If you face technical problems while checking your Sweden visa status online, try these steps:
- Refresh the page and try again
- Clear your browser cache and cookies
- Use a different web browser
- Check your internet connection
- Wait a few hours and attempt again
