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Nigerians need a visa to visit Sweden. Most visitors apply for a Schengen short-stay visa. People who want to stay longer than 90 days need a residence permit from the Swedish Migration Agency. This guide covers how to apply from Nigeria, what to submit and what to avoid.
Short stay or long stay?
| Criteria | Schengen visa (up to 90 days) | Residence permit (over 90 days) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Tourism, business trips, visiting family or friends | Study, work, family ties and other longer stays |
| Valid for | Sweden and the other Schengen countries | Sweden, with limited travel rights elsewhere in Schengen |
| Work | Not allowed | Depends on the permit type |
| Where to apply | VFS Global or the Swedish embassy in Abuja | The Swedish Migration Agency, mostly online, before you travel |
| Fee | €90 for adults | Set by the Migration Agency for each permit type |
Where to apply for a short-stay visa
- VFS Global: Sweden’s visa application centres are in Abuja and Lagos. Book on the VFS Global Nigeria page for Sweden.
- Embassy of Sweden in Abuja: 41 T.Y. Danjuma Street, Asokoro. The embassy also accepts visa applications by appointment, arranged by email to [email protected] or by phone. The VFS route is usually faster.
- Lagos: the Swedish consulate does not handle visa applications. Use the VFS centre.
Sweden’s Abuja mission also accepts Schengen applications on behalf of Slovakia from Nigerian citizens. If your main destination is Slovakia, see our Slovakia visa guide. Check the Sweden Abroad page for opening hours and current rules.
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Documents for a Schengen visa
- Passport valid at least 3 months after you leave, issued within the last 10 years, with two blank pages.
- Completed application form and recent photos.
- Medical insurance of at least €30,000 for the whole stay.
- Proof of purpose: flight reservation, hotel booking or an invitation letter.
- Bank statements and proof of income.
- Proof of ties to Nigeria: employer letter with approved leave, business papers or school letter.
Step by step
- Confirm Sweden is your main destination.
- Complete the form and gather documents.
- Book your VFS Global appointment in Abuja or Lagos.
- Attend in person for biometrics, pay the €90 fee and the service charge.
- Wait for the decision, usually within 15 calendar days, and collect your passport.
You can apply up to 6 months before travel. Apply at least 15 days before departure, and preferably 4 to 8 weeks ahead.
Common mistakes
- Applying for the wrong category, such as a visit visa for a stay that is really work or study.
- Insurance dates that do not match the itinerary.
- Unexplained deposits on bank statements.
- Submitting too late for the travel date.
Read our guide on the grounds for Schengen refusal and the application checklist to avoid them. For general rules see the Schengen visa guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a Swedish visa in Lagos?
Yes, at the VFS Global centre. The Swedish consulate in Lagos does not take visa applications itself.
Can I extend a Schengen visa beyond 90 days?
Only in rare cases, such as serious personal reasons or force majeure. Plan for a stay within 90 days.
Can I work in Sweden on a visit visa?
No. Work needs a work permit from the Swedish Migration Agency.
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