green card holder travel to sweden

Do U.S. citizens and green card holders need a visa to visit Schengen area?

As the first doses of the coronavirus vaccine are rolled out around the globe, would-be travelers to Europe should be familiarize themselves with the Schengen area: a 26-country bloc comprising some of the most visited destinations on the continent, including Germany, France, and Italy. If you are from the United States, you may be wondering if you need a Schengen visa from the USA in order to travel to the Schengen area, or whether you might need to apply for some other kind of European visa for US citizens. At the same time, you may be concerned about your options if you are not yet a US citizen, and therefore seek to travel with a green card or travel with a permanent resident card to the Schengen area. Read on for more information about the visa options for green card USA holders, and whether or not you will need another kind of EU visa for USA if you are not an American citizen.

Do I need a Schengen visa from the USA as an American citizen?

• No. The United States is one of the countries that has visa-free access to the Schengen area. As a US citizen, you will therefore not need a Schengen visa in order to enter the Schengen area for a short stay.  
• While US citizens don’t need Schengen visas, starting in 2022, they will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Informational Travel Authorization) prior to entering the Schengen area. Unlike the Schengen visa, the application process for an ETIAS can be completed online in about 10-minutes, and costs €7. ( For more information on ETIAS, click here ). 
• Please note that you may need to apply for another kind of European visa for US citizens depending on how long you intend to stay in the Schengen area. For example, while American citizens do not need a Schengen visa to enter a Schengen state, they may need to ultimately acquire a national visa from a Schengen country, such a resident visa or a student visa, if they plan on staying in a particular Schengen county for longer than 90 days. 
• For example, if you are an American citizen who is visiting France for a two-week holiday, you will not need a Schengen visa (or any kind of visa) in order to enter and remain in the country. However, if you plan on staying in France longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long stay visa from France. (Please note that applying for a national visa is separate from the Schengen application process).  

Schengen visa for green card holders in USA

• If you are not a US citizen, but you have a green card USA, you might need a Schengen visa from the USA in order to enter the Schengen area for a short stay (under 90 days). 
• Therefore, if you do not have a US passport, you cannot travel with green card to the Schengen area without a visa unless you are a citizen of one of the countries with visa-free access to the Schengen area. ( Click here for a list of countries that have visa free access to the Schengen area ).
• Put another way, even if you are a permanent resident of the United States and you hold a green card, you will not be allowed to travel without a visa to the Schengen area if you are from one of the non-visa free countries, all of which require citizens to obtain visa in order to enter the Schengen area. ( Click here for a list of countries lacking visa-free access to the Schengen area ). 
• For example, say you are a green card holder and a permanent resident of the United States, but you lack American citizenship. If you are a citizen of the U.K., you will be allowed to travel to the Schengen area without a visa-NOT because you have a green card, but because you are a citizen of the U.K., and U.K. citizens have, at this time, visa free access to the Schengen area. 
• Alternatively: let’s say again that you are a green card holder and a permanent resident of the United States who lacks American citizenship – only this time you are a citizen of Libya. Because you are a Libyan citizen, you will not be allowed to travel to the Schengen area without a visa because you are technically Libyan, not American, and Libya is not one of the states whose citizens are allowed visa-free access to the Schengen area. In this scenario, your identity as a permanent resident of America does not have any influence on whether or not you are allowed to enter the Schengen area without a visa.  
• In summary, the only thing that matters when it comes to visa-free entry to the Schengen visa is your citizenship. It doesn’t matter if you are a residency of the United States – what matters for Schengen visa purposes is where you have citizenship from, and whether your country of citizenship has visa-free access to the Schengen area. 

Do I need Schengen visa if I am a permanent resident of the US?

• A permanent resident card, also known as a USA green card, is given to non-temporary residents of the United States, allowing them to legally work and live in the country. Therefore, if you are a permanent resident of the United States, you will have a green card. 
• A green card is not equivalent to a US passport; you cannot get a US passport until you become a US citizen. Please keep in mind that most countries (such as all 26-Schengen countries) do not accept a green card as being valid for entry as an American travel document.
• You therefore cannot exclusively travel with a permanent resident card to the Schengen area ; you must have some other sort of valid travel document, such as a passport from another country, in order to travel to the Schengen area from the United States. The specific country your passport is from will ultimately determine whether or not you will need to apply for a Schengen visa from the USA in order to enter the area.
• Remember, when it comes to visa-free travel to the Schengen area, what matters is your current nationality,  not  your residency status. 

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U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Sweden - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed

Exercise increased caution in Sweden due to  terrorism .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Sweden.

If you decide to travel to Sweden:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Sweden.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

At least three months beyond the period of stay

Space for entry and exit stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros (or equivalent)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy stockholm.

Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31, SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300 Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sweden for information on U.S. - Sweden relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Sweden is a party to the Schengen Agreement. Visit the  Embassy of Sweden  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe: If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Your passport should be valid for  at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our  U.S. Travelers in Europe page.
• You will need  sufficient proof of funds  and  a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the  Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sweden.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Sweden has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past and the potential for a future terrorist incident remains.  As in other countries in the Schengen area, Sweden’s open borders with its European neighbors could permit terrorist groups to enter and exit the country with anonymity. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks, but all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page .

Crime:  Sweden has a low crime rate, and most crimes involve the theft of personal property from vehicles, residences, and public areas. While armed violence against the public continues to be a rare occurrence, violent crimes, such as homicides and sexual assaults, can occur. The majority of violent crimes occur in Sweden’s larger cities, such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. Organized crime groups have also committed armed acts against each other.

Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in and around major tourist attractions, especially Stockholm’s Old Town (“Gamla Stan”) as well as at restaurants, coffee shops, amusement parks, museums, bars, airports, and on public transportation.

Hotel breakfast rooms and lobbies attract well-dressed, professional thieves who blend in with guests and target purses and briefcases left unguarded by tourists and business travelers.

Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are counterfeit goods illegal to bring back into the United States, but if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams : See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Sweden. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• romance/online dating
• money transfers
• bank overpayments
• online relationships that evolve into requests for emergency financial assistance

Victims of Crime : U.S. citizen victims of crime, including sexual assault, should first contact local police authorities by dialing 112. Crime victims may contact the U.S. Embassy at +46 (8) 785-5300 after they have contacted local authorities.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting all crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information on  Sweden’s Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

There is no provision for bail in Sweden. U.S. citizens who are arrested may be held in custody until an investigation or trial is concluded, either of which can range in duration from a few days to a year or more.

Drug and Alcohol Enforcement: Swedish law enforcement authorities have no tolerance for illegal drugs, including marijuana. Marijuana of all forms, including CBD products, are illegal to bring into or possess in Sweden. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Sweden are strict, and convicted offenders can face imprisonment, fines, deportation, and/or a ban from re-entering Sweden.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs, is considered a very serious offense. The maximum legal blood-alcohol level is .02% - much lower than in the United States. Swedish police often conduct alcohol tests on roads and highways. Drunk driving rules are strictly enforced and fines can be severe, including possible jail sentences.

Child Protection Laws: The treatment of children is taken very seriously in Sweden. All forms of corporal punishment of children are against the law, and any form of violence, humiliating treatment, or neglect may result in the child being taken away from parents by the Swedish authorities and placed into long-term care by Sweden’s social services and/or criminal charges being brought against the offending parent. Homeschooling is not allowed in Sweden, except under extraordinary circumstances.

Compulsory Military Service: In March 2017, Sweden reintroduced military conscription for men and women. Dual U.S.-Swedish citizens are also subject to conscription, although persons who have previously done military service may be excluded from the requirement and should contact the Swedish Ministry of Defense for more information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Sweden.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Sweden prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. Accessibility to public facilities and transportation in Sweden is extensive. The Swedish Government actively funds programs promoting disability access to streets, public buildings, stores, restaurants, and public transportation. For more information on accessibility in Sweden, visit the  Tourist Bureau ’s website.

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  women travelers .

Medical care in Sweden is comparable to that found in the United States. Non-residents are expected to pay their own medical costs in full.

For emergency services in Sweden, dial 112. Assistance in English is available.

Ambulance services are widely available.

For non-emergencies, you can visit a local medical center or clinic, called an “Akutmottagning” or “Vardcentral.” Be prepared to present your passport.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept credit card payments. See our  webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit  the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sweden’s  Medical Products Agency  to ensure the medication is legal in Sweden. Please note that local physicians may not prescribe the quantities or dosages of medication that a U.S. doctor would. Stringent Swedish customs regulations prohibit the shipment of drugs to Sweden. Most pharmacies (“Apotek”) are open during normal shopping hours, but major cities will have a 24-hour pharmacy.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of local hospitals and health facilities here .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Swedish roads are comparable to those in the United States, though secondary roads may be less heavily traveled. Road signs use standard international symbols and Swedish text. Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transportation only.

All vehicles on the road must have their headlights turned on, no matter the time of day. You must use snow tires between December 1 and March 31, and you should be experienced driving on ice and snow if you are going to drive in the winter.

You must use seat belts, and children under 135cm (4ft 5 inches) in height must be seated in approved child or booster seats.

Gas stations in rural areas can be far apart. Some stations are unattended and require a credit card with a chip to purchase fuel.

Slower vehicles should move onto the shoulder to allow faster moving vehicles to pass.

Traffic Laws: You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license while visiting Sweden, or as a resident in Sweden registered for less than one year, but you must be at least 18 years old to drive.

The maximum speed limit is 120 kilometers per hour (approximately 75 miles per hour).

Public Transportation: Public transportation in Sweden is the recommended way to travel within larger cities. Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities. Most local residents use public transport in Stockholm, as parking can be expensive. The bus, train, and subway systems are considered safe. Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas.

See our  Road Safety page  or Driving in Sweden website for more information. Visit the website of Sweden’s  national tourist office  and  national transport administration  responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Sweden’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sweden should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA maritime safety information website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Sweden . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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International Travel as a Permanent Resident

In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s website .

If seeking to enter the United States after temporary travel abroad, you will need to present a valid, unexpired “Green Card” (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). When arriving at a port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will review your permanent resident card and any other identity documents you present, such as a passport, foreign national I.D. card or U.S. Driver’s License, and determine if you can enter the United States. For information pertaining to entry into the United States, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage .

Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. A general guide used is whether you have been absent from the United States for more than a year. Abandonment may be found to occur in trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, own property or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence.

If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 . Obtaining a reentry permit prior to leaving the United States allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States. For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

If you remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years, any reentry permit granted before your departure from the United States will have expired. In this case, it is advisable to consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An SB-1 applicant will be required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and will need a medical exam. There is an exception to this process for the spouse or child of either a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad on official orders. For more information on obtaining a returning resident visa, see the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas .

Additionally, absences from the United States of six months or more may disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you wish to preserve your continuous residency in the United States for naturalization purposes, you may file an Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes on Form N-470. For more information, please see the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page.

If you lose your Green Card or reentry permit or it is stolen or destroyed while you are abroad, you may need to file a Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) . This carrier documentation will allow an airline or other transportation carrier to board a lawful permanent resident bound for the United States without the carrier being penalized. For more information, please see the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.

More Information

• Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (PDF, 3.57 MB)
• How Do I Get a Reentry Permit? (PDF, 667.32 KB)
• I-131, Application for Travel Document
• I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card Resources
• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Lawful Permanent Resident? (PDF, 577.38 KB)
• How Do I Renew or Replace My Permanent Resident Card? (PDF, 550.19 KB)
• "How Do I" Guides for Permanent Residents

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Ariel R. Brooks is an experienced writer and researcher about Sweden, with a passion for exploring the country's vibrant culture and landscape. In his spare time, he enjoys visiting the sights of Stockholm and exploring the beautiful countryside of Sweden.

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Visa Information

Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.

Organized Tour/tourism

Documents required, photo specifications, processing time, download forms.

The VFS Service fee of $21.69/ Euro 20 is required to be paid in addition to the above-mentioned Visa Application Fee at the time of submission.

Payment can be made via credit/debit card (also demand draft/money order/cashier’s check for postal applications). Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.

Who is exempt from the visa fee?

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

• Children under six years
• School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training
• Researchers travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations
• Holders of diplomatic and service passports when travelling for official duties
• Family members of EU/EEA citizens
• Family members of UK Nationals who fall under the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement

When you submit your application at the Visa Application Center which represents the Consulate General, you must pay the extra service fee stated above. This is in addition to the normal application fee.

All fees are non-refundable.

• Download document checklist
• Download Questionnaire

Important notes:

• Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here

PLEASE SEE BOTTOM OF PAGE FOR DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR MINORS.

• Passport, with at least 2 blank pages, valid for at least 90 days beyond the return date of the trip to the Schengen Area and not issued more than 10 years ago as of the date of return from your scheduled trip. The same applies to passports issued more than 10 years ago that have since been extended (when applicant opts for passport collection, then an extra photocopy of passport bio data page needs to be provided).
• Two (2) recent passport photographs with a light background.
• Confirmed flight/travel tickets
• If you are employed, bring proof of your current occupation in the USA, i.e. an original letter from your employer, a solicitor or the Company House
• Notarized copy of U.S. Alien Registration Card or other valid resident visa (type A, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, O, or R) valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area .
• If you are a student, bring an original letter from your school or university confirming your status/attendance and a recent bank statement.
• Documents must be original and not older than one month
• Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay i.e. original bank statements for latest three months
• Approval letter of vacation from work, university etc. is required to be submitted along with the application.
• any emergency medical expenses
• emergency hospital treatment
• repatriation for medical reasons

Minimum coverage must be EUR 30,000 (equivalent USD 37,000) and the coverage has to be valid for the entire duration of the trip. If your insurance company cannot provide such a letter, you must find an international insurance that does.

Note! A copy of your insurance card is not enough. You need to provide proof of the above mentioned items .

• Children under 18 must have their birth certificate with them.
• Notarized copy of U.S. Alien Registration Card or other valid resident visa (type A, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, O, or R) valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area.
• Application form signed by both parents.
• Passport and US Visa (Original and copy)
• Full version birth certificate (Original and copy). If document is not in English, a notarized copy must be provided.
• Consent letter signed by both parents. If single parent, then sole custody letter/residence/custody order from court or solicitor must be provided.
• Copy of parents ID

NOTE: An entry visa does not automatically entitle the holder to enter the Schengen area. A decision is made every time the traveler passes through a border control, as travelers must have (1) proof of sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of their stay and their return, (2) travel medical insurance, and (3) documents indicating the purpose of their visit.

Note: We regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements

**the face profile of 2.8 cm to 3.1 cm is acceptable for applicants.

Please provide one recent photograph (not more than 1 month old) of you. Please be advised that all our VFS Application centers have the facility to take correct photograph as per requirements, the fee for same is $16 (2 photos).

• Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus.
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
• Full face, non-smiling [without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background]
• Please stick the Photograph on the Visa Application Form.

Note: Please follow these instructions carefully. If photographs presented do not meet these requirements your application will be considered incomplete.

The processing time for an application for Schengen visa is generally 15 days from the day that the Embassy receives the application. Applications can be submitted up to six months in advance.

Please take into account that it will take a couple of days for VFS to forward an application to the Embassy of Sweden in Washington D.C. after it has been received by VFS.

Please Note:

The forms are in PDF format.

You will need an Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and download this form.

To download the Application Form:

• Click on the form link
• When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

Visit Other Family/friends

Payment can be made via credit/debit card Personal checks or cash are not accepted at the VFS Center.

Please contact the Sweden Visa Application Centre for any questions.

When you submit your application at the Visa Application Center which represents the Embassy, you must pay the extra service fee stated above. This is in addition to the normal application fee.

• Please click here to download the Visa Application Form for Schengen Visa
• Passport, with at least 2 blank pages, valid for at least 90 days beyond the return date of the trip to the Schengen Area and not issued more than 10 years ago as of the date of return from your scheduled trip.
• Sponsor’s proof of ID- Copy of Swedish ID (can be passport, Identification card or driving license)
• Evidence of accommodation

Minimum coverage must be EUR 30,000 and the coverage has to be valid for the entire duration of the trip. If your insurance company cannot provide such a letter, you must find an international insurance that does.

Note: A copy of your insurance card is not enough. You need to provide proof of the above mentioned items.

• Letter from employer stating that you are employed and have vacation time or have eligible vacation. (If you are self-employed, include a copy of your business license and tax return. If you are a student, include a letter from the school verifying enrollment.)
• Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, i.e. original recent bank statement, l. If you are being sponsored, please provide the hosts last three months bank statements. NO Travelers checks or Credit Card statements are acceptable.

Questionnaire:

PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU COMPLETE BOTH OF THE ABOVE FORMS IN FULL, AND BRING THEM WITH YOU WHEN ATTENDING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT.

Business/conference/sports

Please submit the following documents:

• A passport/travel document valid for at least three months after the intended departure from the Schengen area , shall contain two blank pages and been issued within the previous 10 years.
• 1 passport photo, in color, taken from the front. Digital files and photocopies of passport pictures will NOT be accepted.
• A copy of your hotel reservation.
• Business references: letter from U.S. company AND an invitation from the Swedish company stating who will cover the expenses. If the applicant is incurring their own expenses then the latest 3 months bank statement is required to be submitted.
• A copy of your flight itinerary.

NOTE: An entry visa does not automatically entitle the holder to enter the Schengen area. A decision is made every time the traveler passes through a border control, as traveler must have (1) proof of sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of their stay and their return, (2) travel medical insurance, and (3) documents indicating the purpose of their visit.

• National passport or other travel document, valid for at least 90 days beyond the return date of the trip to the Schengen Area, and not issued more than 10 years ago as of the date of return from your scheduled trip. The same applies to passports issued more than 10 years ago that have since been extended. (When applicant opts for passport collection, then an extra photocopy of passport bio data page needs to be provided).
• Copy of airline ticket(s)
• Children travelling alone or with one parent must have letter of consent and proof of ID of both parents and the none travelling parent. In the absence of consent letter only sole custody and residence orders from the courts will be accepted.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

48 VISA-FREE Countries for US Green Card Holders [2024 Edition]

Updated: February 3, 2024 8 Comments

A US green card not only lets you reside in the US but also offers you visa-free access to many countries and territories. As of 2024, there are about 48 visa-free countries for US green card holders. 

A US green card is a pathway to a US passport. While you wait for your US passport, your US green card is already making your current passport strong . Not as strong as a US passport but quite strong. You already have visa-free access to 48 additional countries.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER Visa requirements change constantly but we make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. We provide links to official sources wherever necessary, so you can conduct your own due diligence to verify the visa requirements before planning your trip. We shall not be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of using the information in this article. Refer to our full disclaimer for more information.

Why are there VISA-FREE countries for US green card holders?

US passport (and US citizenship) is considered one of the strongest in the world. A US green card is a pathway to US citizenship. Many countries believe that someone with a US green card will not jeopardize their chances of becoming a US citizen by remaining illegally in another country. 

Working towards acquiring a US green card requires remaining several years in the US or investing enormous amounts of cash or building very strong family ties with the US. It’s silly for someone to let go of years of valuable time and millions of dollars of investments just to stay illegally in another country. Therefore, countries trust US green card holders as genuine travelers and treat them almost like someone with a strong passport. So, these countries offer visa-free access to US green card holders. 

How many countries can you visit with a US green card?

As of 2024, there are 48 countries and territories that you can visit with a US green card. This list of countries for US green card holders includes visa-free, visa on arrival and e-visa countries. Japan is the new addition to the list with the option to apply for e-visa without needing to go to the embassy.

Let’s look at what these countries are in detail.

Where can green card holders travel without a visa?

As of 2024, these are the 48 countries where green card holders can travel without a visa.

• Anguilla (British Territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bermuda (British Territory)
• Bonaire (Dutch Territory)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands (British Territory)
• Cayman Islands (British Territory)
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sint Maarten
• South Korea
• Turks and Caicos (British Territory)
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• US territories

Let’s look into the entry requirements of each of these countries in detail.

RELATED: 53 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with US visa in 2024

North America

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Entry granted: 180 days
• Entry rule: Entry into Canada is only allowed if you present a valid passport from the country of nationality along with a green card.
• Official source: Government of Canada Immigration and Citizenship

Read more about traveling to Canada with US green card . This article will guide you through the requirements and border procedure when entering Canada with your US green card.

• Entry granted: Varies depending on the itinerary
• Entry rule: Green card must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
• Official source: National Institute of Migration, Mexico

Read more about traveling to Mexico with a US green card . This article will help you understand the requirements and entry procedures at the airport when traveling to Mexico with your US green card.

03. United States Territories

• Includes the US territories: US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam
• Excludes the US territories: American Samoa (American Samoa has its own immigration rules and does not honor US tourist visa )
• Official source: American Samoa Visitors Bureau   and Department of Legal Affairs  

RELATED: 38 countries you can visit VISA-FREE with Canada visa in 2023

Central America

• Entry granted: 30 days
• Official source: Embassy of Belize in Washington DC, USA

05. Costa Rica

• Entry rule: US green card must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC, USA

06. El Salvador

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Papua New Guinea
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 90 days
• If entering by air, a fee of $12 USD will be charged for a tourist card
• If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
• Official source: IATA Travel Centre

07. Guatemala

• Côte d´Ivoire
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.
• Official source: Consulate of Guatemala in New York, USA

08. Honduras

• Cote d’Ivoire
• South Sudan
• Entry rule: If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement.

09. Nicaragua

• Afghanistan
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Congo, Rep of
• Sierra Leone
• Timor-Leste
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 50 USD, payable in USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Besides VOA fee, there is 10 USD tourist card fee, 2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and 1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)
• Green card must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Official source: Embassy of Panama in the USA

RELATED: 40 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2023

11. Anguilla (British Territory)

• Official source: Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements

12. Antigua and Barbuda

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to obtain a Visa ON ARRIVAL (VOA)
• VOA fee is $100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda in NYC, USA
• Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

14. Bahamas

• Official source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism

15. Bermuda (British Territory)

• Entry rule: Green card must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Official source: Government of Bermuda

16. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

17. british virgin islands (british territory).

• Entry rule: Must arrive directly from the US
• Official source: Government of Virgin Islands (British)

18. Cayman Islands (British Territory)

• Entry rule: Must present a return ticket back to the US on arrival
• Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

19. Curaçao

20. dominican republic.

• Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must purchase a Tourist Card on arrival for 20 USD. If arriving by air, the tourist card is included in the airfare.
• Official source: Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the US

21. Sint Maarten

22. turks and caicos (british territory).

• Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 51 non-Schengen countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2023

South America

24. Colombia

• Official source : Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

RELATED: How to book flight tickets with 24 hour FREE cancellation on Expedia – A step-by-step guide

26. Albania

• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Albania

27. Armenia

• Marshall Islands
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Solomon Islands
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

28. Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities, except Kosovo
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina

29. Georgia

• Entry rule: The total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

30. Moldova

• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

31. Montenegro

• Official source: Government of Montenegro
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia
• Algeria (those aged 15-18 and 35-65)
• North Korea
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to apply for Turkey e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is $43 USD, validity is 180 days, and single-entry only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey

If you hold a US green card and are eligible to apply for a Turkey e-Visa, read this step-by-step guide to  apply for Turkey e-Visa . This step-by-step guide has instructions and screenshots to guide you in filling out the application and downloading your approved e-Visa.

34. United Kingdom

• Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
• Must be traveling to or from the US only
• Must arrive and depart by air only
• Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
• Granting 24-hour entry into the UK with a green card is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer
• Official source: GOV.UK

RELATED: How to turn your weak passport into a strong passport (with examples)

Middle East

35. Bahrain

• Entry granted: 14 days or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Bahrain eVisa
• Single-entry VOA fee is 5 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Single-entry eVisa fee is 9 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Multiple-entry VOA fee is 12 BD, valid for 3 months, entry up to 30 days
• Multiple-entry eVisa fee is 16 BD, valid for 1 month, entry up to 14 days
• For VOA, the green card must be valid for the entire stay in Bahrain
• For eVisa, the green card must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Bahrain eVisa Portal
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• Guinea Bissau
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible for Jordan e-Visa
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to obtain Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVIsa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVIsa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for A3 Visa online on the Hayya Portal
• A3 Visa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• Green card must be valid on the day of A3 Visa application
• Official source: Qatar Tourism Board

39. Saudi Arabia

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Saudi Arabia eVisa
• VOA or eVisa fee is 300 SAR, valid for 1 year, multiple-entry (plus service fee and insurance fee)
• Official source: Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority

40. United Arab Emirates

• Eligible Nationalities: India passport holders only
• Entry granted: 14 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at UAE airports
• VOA fee is 100 AED, valid for 14 days, single-entry only
• Official source: UAE Government Portal

RELATED: 5 ways to get proof of onward travel for your next trip

41. Morocco

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• Green card must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but green card holders are eligible to apply for Japan eVisa
• E-Visa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry only
• Must submit proof of residence to prove that you reside in those countries
• Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
• Must enter Japan by flight only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

43. Malaysia (Currently suspended)

• Entry granted: 120 hours (5 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but green card holders are eligible to obtain Transit Without Visa (TWOA) at the VOA counter
• TWOA is free of charge, valid for 120 hours (5 days), single-entry only
• TWOA is available at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA2 terminals) only
• Issuing of TWOA is at the discretion of the immigration offices at Kuala Lumpur Airport
• Official source: High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi, India

44. Philippines

• Green card must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

45. Singapore

• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• Green card must be valid for at least 1 month at the time of arrival
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

46. South Korea

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from the US through South Korea (OR)
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate online
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED US green card, the green card must have expired in the last 10 years only
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of Republic of China (Taiwan)

48. Thailand

• Entry granted: 60 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Thailand e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 40 USD, valid for 90 days or 180 days, single or multiple-entry
• Official source: Thailand e-Visa Portal

There are about 48 countries green card holders can travel without visa. US green card holders had to invest enormous amounts of money and time to acquire the green card, which will eventually lead to US citizenship. Therefore, countries believe that US green card holders will not jeopardize their chances of becoming US citizens by remaining illegally in another country. They consider green holders as genuine travelers and provide them with VISA-FREE access.

There you go, guys! Those are the 48 countries you can visit with a green card without a visa. If you know any country that I haven’t listed, let me know in the comments below.

Change history: For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

03 Feb 2024

• Added:  El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, British Virgin Islands, Colombia, Moldova, Saudi Arabia

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Travelling from Sweden with a permanent or temporary residence permit

If you have a permanent residence permit, this means you have the right to reside and work in Sweden for an unlimited period of time. If you have a temporary residence permit, this means you may remain in Sweden for a limited period of time. You will find information here on what you need to know when you want to travel from Sweden.

As proof of your residence permit, you will receive a residence permit card. For those who have a permanent residence permit, the residence permit card is valid for a maximum of five years. Thereafter, you will need a new card. For those who have a temporary residence permit, the residence permit card is valid for as long as the permit. The residence card is not an identity document or a travel document.

Read more about the residence permit card

Travel­ling from Sweden with a perma­nent resi­dence permit

You may travel in and out of the country when you have a permanent residence permit, but you must have a valid passport to leave Sweden, and your residence permit card to return.

If you have a permanent residence permit, you may be absent from Sweden for up to one year and keep your residence permit.

If you are away for longer than one year or if you are planning to take up residence in another country, the Swedish Migration Agency may revoke your residence permit. If you notify your wish to keep your permanent residence permit, however, you may be absent from Sweden for up to two years. Your application must be received by the Swedish Migration Agency at the latest one week before you move to another country. If you do not take up residence in Sweden again after two years, your residence permit may be revoked.

Notify your wish to keep your perma­nent resi­dence permit

In order to notify your wish to keep your permanent residence permit, you will need to complete the form Notification of desire to retain permanent residence permit, 186011. Print and sign the form, and submit it by mail. The postal address is

The Swedish Migration Agency 601 70 Norrköping

Your application must be received by the Swedish Migration Agency at the latest one week before you move to another country. If your journey is cancelled, you should inform the Swedish Migration Agency of this by the date you had originally intended to travel at the latest.

If you leave Sweden in order to live abroad for at least one year, then you are to notify the Swedish Tax Agency.

If your perma­nent resi­dence permit is no longer valid

If you are no longer in Sweden and your residence permit is no longer valid, you will need to apply for a new one if you wish to travel back to Sweden. You should apply at a Swedish embassy or consulate-general in the country where you live, and the permit must be in place before you travel to Sweden.

If you have had a permanent residence permit previously and are applying for a new residence permit because you have lived in Sweden previously, the Swedish Migration Agency will look at what connection you have with Sweden. The Swedish Migration Agency will also look at how long you have lived in Sweden and how long you have lived in any other country. Contact the Swedish embassy or consulate-general for further information about how to apply and what you need to know if you have previously had a permanent residence permit.

Travel­ling from Sweden with a tempo­rary resi­dence permit

If you have a temporary residence permit, you may travel in and out of the country during the time your permit is valid, but you must have a valid passport to leave Sweden, and your residence permit card to return.

If your tempo­rary resi­dence permit is no longer valid

If you have left Sweden and your residence permit is no longer valid, you will need to apply for a new one if you wish to travel back to Sweden. You apply from the country in which you live and the permit must be in place before you travel to Sweden.

Residence permit to live with someone in Sweden

Residence permit to study

Residence permit for work

Last updated: 2023-02-08

The Visa Process to Travel to Sweden for a Green Card

Introduction, what is a green card, who is eligible for a green card, how to apply for a green card, what are the requirements for a green card, how long does it take to get a green card, what are the benefits of a green card, what are the drawbacks of a green card, how to renew a green card.

The visa process to travel to Sweden for a Green Card can be difficult to navigate. This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful application.

Checkout this video:

Watch this video on YouTube

The process of immigrating to Sweden can be a long and complicated one. There are a number of different visas that you may need in order to be eligible to live and work in the country. One option for those who wish to live and work in Sweden is to obtain a Swedish green card.

To be eligible for a green card, you must first have a job offer from a Swedish employer. Once you have a job offer, you can apply for a work permit. If your application is successful, you will then be able to apply for a green card. The process of obtaining a green card can take several months, so it is important to be patient and prepared for the possibility that your application may not be successful.

If you are considering immigrating to Sweden, it is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or other legal professional to ensure that you are taking the right steps and that you are aware of all the requirements.

A Green Card is a permit that allows a person to live and work in the United States. green card holders are also known as Permanent Residents.

To be eligible for a Green Card, you must meet certain requirements, including: -You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer -You must be sponsored by a family member or employer who is already a U.S. citizen or permanent resident -You must be coming to the United States for a specific purpose, such as medical treatment, employment, or study

There are several categories of individuals who may be eligible for a Green Card. The most common are:

-Persons who have been granted asylum in Sweden -Persons who have been granted a residence permit on humanitarian grounds -Refugees -Family members of Swedish citizens or persons with a permanent residence permit in Sweden -Certain highly skilled workers

Applying for a Green Card can be a long and complicated process, but it is worth it if you want to live and work in Sweden permanently. The first step is to make sure that you are eligible for a Green Card. You can do this by checking the requirements on the Swedish Migration Agency website. If you meet all of the requirements, you can then start the application process.

The application process consists of filling out an online application form and sending in supporting documents. Once your application is complete, it will be sent to the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country for processing. After your application has been processed, you will be contacted for an interview at the embassy or consulate. If your application is approved, you will be issued a Green Card and will be able to travel to Sweden.

In order to be eligible for a Green Card, you must meet the following requirements: -You must be eligible for employment in Sweden. -You must have a valid passport. -You must be a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Union or the European Economic Area, or Switzerland. -You must be aged 18 or over. -You must have health insurance that covers you in Sweden. -You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Sweden.

The waiting period for a Green Card is variable and depends on many factors such as your country of origin and your employment situation. The average waiting period is between six and twelve months, but it can be much shorter or much longer.

There are many benefits of having a Green Card, including the ability to live and work permanently in the United States, as well as access to certain government benefits. In addition, Green Card holders can sponsor certain family members to come to the United States as permanent residents.

There are a few potential drawbacks to getting a green card, including:

1. You may have to wait a long time for your application to be processed. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is currently taking about six months to process green card applications.

2. You may have to undergo a medical examination. This is usually just a routine check-up to make sure you don’t have any communicable diseases, but it can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if you have to travel outside of the country for the examination.

3. You may be asked to provide proof of financial stability. This could include things like bank statements, tax returns, and other financial documentation.

4. You may not be able to work right away. In some cases, you may need to obtain a work permit before you can start working in the United States.

5. You may not be able to travel outside of the United States while your application is being processed. If you leave the country while your application is pending, your application will likely be cancelled and you will have to start the process all over again from scratch.

The process of renewing a Green Card is fairly simple. You will need to gather the required documents, which include your current Green Card, a passport-style photo, and a completed Form I-90. You will then need to submit these items, along with the appropriate fee, to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once your renewal is processed, you will receive a new Green Card that is valid for 10 years.

The process of obtaining a visa to travel to Sweden for a green card is fairly straightforward. However, it is important to remember that there are a few requirements that must be met in order to successfully obtain a visa. Be sure to research the requirements thoroughly before beginning the application process.

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Compare U.S. green card paths

Traveling internationally as a green card holder here’s what you need to know.

By Annie Blay

Leaving and reentering the U.S. as a green card holder is relatively straightforward for short trips. If you plan to leave the U.S. for an extended time, there are a few things to consider.

Traveling internationally as a green card holder

The ability to travel internationally with ease is one of the benefits of having a green card. However, if you stay outside the U.S. for too long (more than a year), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will consider your permanent residence status ”abandoned.”

You can generally stay outside the U.S. for up to six months yearly without problems.

If you stay outside the U.S. between six months and a year, you will most likely be subject to questioning from CBP at the U.S. port of entry. However, you should still be able to reenter.

Reentering the U.S. becomes challenging if you stay outside the country for more than a year. You can reenter with a Re-entry Permit (more on below), but you can only apply for a Re-entry Permit from within the U.S.

Another option for reentering the U.S. if you have been gone for more than a year is to apply for a returning resident visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Also consider: staying outside the U.S. for more than a year as a green card holder can slow down the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. You can become a naturalized citizen after 3-5 years as a permanent resident.

However, if you are outside the U.S. for over a year, the 3-5 year timeline will restart. Under certain circumstances, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ( USCIS ) may approve a request to preserve residence for naturalization purposes .

Best practices for international travel for U.S. permanent residents

1. If possible, spend at least half of the year in the U.S.

Being physically present in the U.S. for at least six months per year is the best practice for green card holders.

2. Know the risks of long-term travel

Perhaps you need to care for family members in a foreign country, or you want to travel extensively for pleasure.

Regardless of your reasons for travel, there are risks you should understand when considering a lengthier trip.

The best practice is to limit your international travel to under six months, but you can travel for up to a year without needing a re-entry permit.

If you stay outside the U.S. for over a year and do not have a re-entry permit, CPB may consider your green card “abandoned”. In other words, your

Whether you have a re-entry permit or not, staying outside the U.S. for more than a year will also restart the clock for becoming a naturalized citizen.

3. If necessary, apply for a re-entry permit before you leave the U.S.

You cannot apply for a re-entry permit from outside the U.S.

If you know you will be traveling outside the U.S. for more than a year, apply for a re-entry permit before you leave.

To get a re-entry permit, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document .

Upon approval, your re-entry permit will be valid for up to two years.

4. Pack the documents you need for re-entry

Before you leave the U.S., ensure you have all the documents you’ll need to reenter, including a valid passport, green card, and a re-entry permit (if necessary). If you came to the U.S. as a refugee, you will also need to bring your refugee travel document .

5. If you are unsure about your case, check with an immigration lawyer

If you have any doubts about your unique situation, consider speaking to a trusted immigration law firm for legal advice.

Traveling internationally with a pending green card application

If you don’t have an approved green card yet, you may still be able to travel internationally while your application is pending.

How to travel internationally on a dual intent visa with a pending green card

If you are in the U.S. on a valid dual intent nonimmigrant visa (such as H-1B or L-1), you can travel internationally throughout the green card application process.

How to travel internationally with a pending green card if you don’t have a dual intent visa

If you are in the U.S. on a single intent nonimmigrant visa (such as TN or E-3) or have a pending asylum case, you cannot travel internationally while your green card is processed unless you get an Advance Parole travel document .

To request Advance Parole, file Form I-131 when you file your green card application or after the application has been submitted.

It will likely take several months for your Advance Parole application to be approved. If you need it approved more quickly for emergency reasons, you can submit an expedite request.

Upon approval of your Advance Parole, you can leave the U.S. and reenter with the approved travel document.

Frequently asked questions about travel on a green card

Do lawful permanent resident and green card holder have the same meaning?

Yes. Lawful permanent resident (LPR) and green card holder both refer to foreign nationals who hold green cards (also called permanent resident cards).

What is the difference between Form I-485 and Form I-140 ?

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the green card application.

Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is a petition that qualifies a foreign national for a green card based on their employment.

Read more about the difference between Form I-1485 and Form I-140 .

Do I need a travel document if I have a green card?

No. If you have an approved green card, you do not need a travel document (Advanced Parole) to leave and reenter the U.S.

Can I travel inside the U.S. with a green card?

Yes, you can travel from state to state with a green card.

How does the U.S. government determine whether you have abandoned your permanent resident status?

There are a few factors the U.S. government considers when determining green card abandonment:

• How long you spent outside the U.S.
• Your purpose for traveling outside the U.S.
• Whether you intend to return to the U.S. as an LPR
• Whether you have continued ties to the U.S. as your permanent home

What happens if you abandon your green card?

If the U.S. government determines that you have abandoned your green card, your green card will no longer be valid. To become a permanent resident again, you must restart the green card application process.

How do I achieve lawful permanent resident status through employment?

Permanent residency eligibility can be based on family, employment, or humanitarian reasons.

To become a permanent resident via employment, you’ll first need to file an immigrant visa application, such as an EB-1A or EB-2 PERM . Your immigrant visa application will include legal forms, a copy of your passport and any prior U.S. visa stamps, and other supporting documents.

Depending on your country of birth, you may be able to file your green card application right away, or you may need to wait until you become “ current .”

After filing your green card application, USCIS will ask you to submit a medical exam and attend a biometrics appointment at a nearby USCIS office.

Customized support on your immigration journey

An experienced immigration attorney can simplify the complexities of immigration law and the green card process. Reach out to our team for customized support on your immigration journey.  

About the author:

Content Marketing Specialist

Before joining the marketing team, Annie helped over 60 Legalpad clients navigate U.S. immigration on the client services team.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Sweden set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Swedish Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Sweden.

Accompanied under-18s

Carry a letter of consent from the parent or guardian of children under 18 who are travelling with you.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Sweden, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

To enter Sweden (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Sweden). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you haven’t overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

If you live in Sweden, read our Living in Sweden guide for passport stamping information.

At Swedish border control, you may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation
• show proof of your travel insurance
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay

Border controls on arrival from Denmark and Germany

Border controls are in place in Sweden for people travelling from Denmark via the Öresund crossing and arriving on ferries from Denmark and Germany.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (which includes Sweden) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends

to attend business meetings, cultural or sports event

• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Sweden and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Swedish government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Swedish Embassy in the UK .

If you stay in Sweden with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need in TravelHealthPro’s Sweden guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Sweden . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money into Sweden

Many shops, cafes and restaurants do not accept cash, so make sure you have a debit or credit card with you.

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