What are the requirements to apply for a residence permit based on family ties? You can get a residence permit based on family ties and the Swedish Migration Board - Migrationsverket has a quite generous understanding of the concept of family and includes the following members:
- wife/husband
- registered partner
- common-law spouse
- fiancé and
- unmarried children (under the age of 18)
This means that you could be granted a residence permit in Sweden based on family ties, if you e.g. have a husband or wife that legally lives and works in Sweden.
Note: you don't need to be married to the person you move to. Being common-law spouses is a fully valid ground to be granted a residence permit.
Furthermore, Migrationsverkets definition of family is not restricted to a heterosexual understanding off it. Gay couples are welcome to apply for a residence permit in Sweden on the same conditions as heterosexual couples.
Note: In order to extend your residence permit you must still remain in a relationship with your partner. However, if your relationship has ended, you may, in certain cases, be permitted to stay.
On July 20, 2021, the Swedish migration legislation will be changed. Many who have applied for a residence permit and not received a decision before July 20 will be affected by the new rules.
According to the new rules regarding residence permit based on family ties you will always receive a temporary residence permit the first time you apply for a permit to live with a family member in Sweden.
To be eligible for a permanent residence permit after July 20, you must
- have held a residence permit for at least three years
- be able to financially support yourself
- be expected to live an orderly life.
Since residence permits are most often granted for two years at a time, you can usually apply for a permanent residence permit after four years at the earliest.
On the Swedish Migration Board - Migrationsverket website you can read more in detail about the new requirements.
E-learning course: Preparing your move to Sweden
Are you already feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff you need to figure out how to move to Sweden? We’ve got you covered. Over the years we’ve been repeatedly told just stressful this process can be so we created a digital course with all the information you need to move. Here you will learn about:
- Short (and long facts) about Sweden.
- The history and background of Sweden in regards to democracy, religious freedom, gender equality, social security, child welfare and LGBTQIA+.
- The types of visas and residence permits that are available plus the requirements.
- Important Swedish agencies, and trust us, you DO need to know about these ones.
- How to find a place to stay and how to avoid rental fraud.
- How to pack for your move depending on the season.
- And there will be some quizzes to make sure you are paying attention and not falling asleep at your screen.
After finishing this course, you will have a greater understanding of what has made Sweden what it is today, how you best prepare for a move here and to get your stay here started in the best manner.
