Steps to Apply for a Family Visa for Adult Siblings in Sweden
Introduction
Sweden has a generous family reunification policy, which allows individuals to sponsor their close family members to join them in the country. For adult siblings, the process is slightly more complex than for spouses or children, but it is still possible. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the steps involved in applying for a family visa for adult siblings in Sweden.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a family visa for an adult sibling, the following criteria must be met:
- The applicant must be a Swedish citizen, a permanent resident of Sweden, or a citizen of an EU/EEA country.
- The applicant must be 21 years of age or older.
- The applicant’s sibling must be 18 years of age or older.
- The applicant and their sibling must have a genuine and close relationship.
- The applicant must be able to support their sibling financially.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
The following documents are required for the application:
- Passport: Valid passports for both the applicant and their sibling.
- Proof of relationship: Birth certificates or other official documents proving the sibling relationship.
- Proof of identity: ID cards or driving licenses.
- Proof of income: Employment contracts, bank statements, or tax returns showing that the applicant can support their sibling.
- Proof of accommodation: A lease or rental agreement for the applicant’s home.
- Health insurance: Proof of health insurance for both the applicant and their sibling.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
The application form for a family visa for an adult sibling can be found on the website of the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket). The form should be completed carefully and all required information should be provided.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Once the application form and all required documents have been gathered, they should be submitted to the Swedish Migration Agency. The application can be submitted online or by mail.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
An application fee must be paid when submitting the application. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of the stay.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
The Swedish Migration Agency will process the application and make a decision within a few months. The applicant will be notified of the decision by mail.
Step 6: Appeal a Negative Decision (Optional)
If the application is denied, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision to the Migration Court (Migrationsdomstolen). The appeal must be filed within three weeks of receiving the negative decision.
Timeline and Costs
The processing time for a family visa for an adult sibling can vary depending on the workload of the Swedish Migration Agency. On average, it takes around 6-8 months to receive a decision.
The application fee for a family visa is SEK 1,500 (approximately EUR 140). If the application is denied and the applicant decides to appeal, an additional fee of SEK 1,200 (approximately EUR 110) will be charged.
Additional Information
- Adult siblings who have a child together may be eligible for a family reunification visa based on the child’s relationship with the applicant.
- Adult siblings who are dependent on each other due to a disability or serious illness may also be eligible for a family visa.
- The applicant must be able to demonstrate that their sibling will not become a burden on the Swedish welfare system.
Conclusion
Applying for a family visa for an adult sibling in Sweden can be a complex process, but it is possible with careful planning and preparation. By following the steps outlined in this article and gathering all necessary documents, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application.