Sweden Schengen Visa for Pakistanis: Bank Statement and Fees

Sweden, a country known for its fascinating history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, is a dream destination for many travelers. From the picturesque streets of Stockholm to the mesmerizing northern lights in Lapland, Sweden offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. If you’re planning a trip to this Nordic paradise, it’s essential to understand the visa process, particularly for Pakistani citizens, who require a short-term Schengen visa to visit Sweden.

Traveling to Sweden offers a unique opportunity to explore a country rich in history, nature, and modern innovations. However, the visa application process requires careful planning and adherence to the necessary requirements. By preparing a complete application with accurate documentation and sufficient financial proof, Pakistani citizens can enhance their chances of securing a Schengen visa successfully. Whether you are visiting Sweden for tourism, business, or family purposes, staying informed and organized is the key to a hassle-free travel experience.

While nationals of some countries enjoy visa-free entry to Sweden, Pakistani citizens must undergo the visa application process to gain entry. This process involves submitting various documents and fulfilling specific financial requirements to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Who Handles the Visa Process?

For Pakistani citizens, as well as Afghan nationals and those legally residing in Pakistan, the Swedish Embassy manages Schengen visa applications. The embassy ensures that applicants meet all the required conditions before granting a visa. A well-prepared application with complete documentation enhances the chances of approval and minimizes potential delays.

Documents for a Schengen Visa

To apply for a Schengen visa for Sweden, applicants must submit a series of mandatory documents. These include:

Completed Visa Application Form – Ensure the form is accurately filled with up-to-date personal details.
Valid Passport – The passport must have been issued within the last ten years and contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Recent Passport-Sized Photograph – The photo should comply with the Schengen visa photo requirements.
Biometric Data Submission – Fingerprints must be provided unless previously registered in the Visa Information System (VIS).
Travel Itinerary – A detailed plan of your trip, including flight reservations and accommodation bookings.
Proof of Financial Stability – Bank and credit card statements for the last three months to demonstrate the ability to fund the stay.
Travel Insurance – Coverage of at least 30,000 euros for medical emergencies, valid throughout the Schengen area.
Letter of Invitation (if applicable) – If visiting family or friends, a formal invitation letter may be required.
Employment and Income Proof – This could be a salary slip, employment letter, or business registration documents for self-employed applicants.

Financial Requirements Bank Statement

A crucial aspect of the visa application process is proving financial stability. Every applicant must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the duration of their stay in Sweden. The minimum financial requirement is set at 450 SEK per day, which translates to approximately 13,500 SEK for a 30-day stay. This amount is equivalent to around Rs 3,50,000 as of April 1, 2025.

To meet this requirement, applicants must submit:

Bank statements from the last three months, stamped and signed by the issuing bank.
Proof of steady income or savings to show financial self-sufficiency.
If someone else is sponsoring the trip, a sponsor letter along with the sponsor’s financial documents is necessary.

Ensuring financial compliance is crucial, as failure to meet these criteria may result in a visa rejection.

Visa Processing

The Swedish Embassy carefully assesses all Schengen visa applications, verifying documents and financial proof to ensure applicants meet the necessary conditions. Here are key points to remember during the application process:

Timely Submission: Apply at least four to six weeks before your intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
Accuracy and Completeness: Double-check all details and documents to prevent unnecessary delays or rejections.
Consular Interview (if required): Some applicants may be called for an interview at the Swedish Embassy to further verify their intentions and travel plans.
Tracking Application Status: Many embassies offer online tracking systems to check the status of your visa application.