Terms for staying in Sweden

Citizens of certain countries are allowed to stay in Sweden without a visa or permit for a limited period of time. Others need a visa or permit to enter Sweden. Contact the Swedish Migration Agency or a Swedish foreign mission (embassy or consulate) to apply for a visa or permit. Staying in Sweden without such permit is illegal. Foreign citizens who stay in Sweden illegally can be detained and expelled from the country. The Swedish Police have the right to control that foreign citizens have the legal right to stay in Sweden, a so called internal alien's control.

Expulsions

Swedish Police can also forcibly expel foreign citizens who have not voluntarily left Sweden after their visa or permit has expired, have entered or stayed in Sweden without the correct visa or permit, or have been sentenced to expulsion by a court of law. Foreigners suspected of not leaving Sweden voluntarily may be detained or supervised.

Asylum

Anyone in need of international protection should apply for asylum by contacting the Swedish Migration Agency. Swedish Police can refer you to the Swedish Migration Agency. An open asylum application gives the person the legal right to stay in Sweden while the application is being assessed. 

More information about border control