Visas and residence permits for studies

If you're applying for a residence permit for studies for the first time, you must usually submit your application before arriving in Sweden. It is essential that you apply well ahead of time to ensure your permit is processed before your studies begin. Please note that it might take a few months for your application to be processed. However, do not apply more than four months before the desired start date of your permit.

To learn more about residence permit requirements and the application process, please visit the Swedish Migration Agency’s website External link, opens in new window.

International students who are required to pay tuition fees must ensure that the first instalment is paid before submitting their application for a residence permit for studies. Accordingly, we strongly recommend that you pay the tuition fee as soon as possible after your admission, so you have enough time to receive your residence permit for studies.

You can use the Notification of Selection Results, available for download from the University Admissions, as proof of admission. In other words, no special admission letter from the university is required for your residence permit application.

Fee-paying students admitted to Södertörn University are covered by FAS+, the Swedish State’s insurance for international students who pay tuition fees, therefore no private insurance is required to support your residence permit application.

If your study programme lasts more than one year, you may apply for a one or two-year residence permit, provided you meet the necessary conditions.

International students are allowed to work in Sweden during their period of study. However, please be aware that finding a part-time job in Stockholm might be difficult, especially if you do not speak Swedish.

You can watch a video series on residence permits External link, opens in new window. for studies prepared by the Study in Sweden.

For more information about the residence permit application, please contact the Swedish Migration Agency External link, opens in new window.

If your current residence permit is valid for one year, you must apply for an extension before it expires. It is important that you plan ahead to avoid any gaps in your legal stay. You can submit your extension application up to four months before your current permit ends. Make sure you apply while your current permit is still valid. Processing can take several months, so applying on time is crucial.

Avoid applying too early, as you might be asked to provide updated documents that are more closely aligned with the new permit period. Submitting a complete and accurate application increases your chances of receiving a quicker decision.

To learn more about extensions to residence permits for studies in Sweden, please visit the Swedish Migration Agency website External link, opens in new window.

Starting from 15 April 2024, an agreement between Södertörn University and the Swedish Migration Agency allows two-year residence permits to be issued to international students enrolled in two-year Master’s programmes at Södertörn University. Students may still choose to apply for a study permit for a period of 13 months at a time, as previously. To be eligible for a two-year residence permit for studies, newly admitted students must have a valid passport for the duration of the permit and sufficient funds to cover living expenses for the entire period.

As part of the agreement with the Migration Agency, Södertörn University is required to report any approved leave from studies, non-appearance, and termination of studies to the Swedish Migration Agency.

When you submit your application, you can also include applications for family members who will accompany you. This includes spouses, registered or cohabiting partners, and children under 18. The family members’ permits will be linked to your study permit and will be valid for the same duration. Please note that you will have to submit bank statements or other documents showing that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family members during your period of study. Family members may also apply for a residence permit once the student has been granted their permit.

Detailed instructions on how to apply for family members are available on the Swedish Migration Agency website External link, opens in new window.