Pakistani Citizens No Longer Eligible for Schengen Visas from Swedish Embassy

New Schengen Visa Application Process for Pakistani Citizens

Pakistani citizens hoping to visit Sweden must now look beyond their country's borders to apply for a Schengen visa, as the Swedish Embassy has implemented a significant change in the application process.

Applications Not Accepted within Pakistan

According to a notification issued by the Embassy of Sweden, Pakistani applicants need to visit VFS Global centers across Asia, including Bangkok, Yangon, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila, Cebu, Jakarta, Bali, Phnom Penh, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. The Embassy will no longer accept visa applications within Pakistan.

In-Person Submission and Biometrics Required

The new application procedure requires all Pakistani applicants to submit their visa requests in person at these designated centers. During the submission, applicants will be required to provide their original passports and undergo biometric data collection, including fingerprints.

Extended Processing Period

Following the submission, all applications and passports will be dispatched to the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok for processing. The processing period is expected to last approximately 21 days. This timeframe includes 15 days for general processing and an additional six days for document transport and delivery. It's important to note that during this duration, applicants will not have access to their passports.

Notification of Decision

Applicants will be informed of the decision on their visa application upon the return of their passport by VFS Global at the location where the application was submitted.

Preparation for Travel

To ensure a smooth travel experience, the Embassy of Sweden advises applicants to arrange changeable flight tickets and consider the processing timeline when planning their trips, as expedited or priority processing options are not available.

Applicant Responsibility

Furthermore, the Embassy has clarified that it will not provide any assistance or information regarding securing entry permits or visas for the country of application. It is solely the responsibility of the applicant to choose the appropriate location for visa submission and to arrange for a visa, if required, for that specific location.

Application Timeline

For those planning to apply, please note that applications can be lodged up to six months before the intended visit. Detailed information about the application process, including appointment bookings and required documents, can be found on the VFS Global websites corresponding to each country.

Embassy's Response

In light of this change, the Embassy of Sweden in Islamabad has stated that it will not address any further queries or provide additional information regarding visa applications beyond what has already been provided in the official notification.

This alteration in the visa application process aims to streamline procedures and manage the increasing demand for Schengen visas while maintaining a smooth and efficient process for Pakistani citizens traveling to Sweden.