Sweden Schengen Visa for Burundian citizens: Complete application guide for 2023

Discover the allure of Sweden, starting with the vibrant city life and historic charm of Stockholm. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland, enjoy the tranquility of the country's countless lakes and forests, or experience the diverse, modern vibe of Malmö. From the cultural richness of its museums and art galleries to the serene beauty of the Gothenburg Archipelago, Sweden promises a captivating journey for every traveler.

In this guide, we will walk with you through every detail of applying for a Sweden Schengen Visa from Burundi, including requirements, visa fees, and other critical aspects of a successful application. Through our user-friendly website, we have tailored solutions for all your travel needs, be it tourism, business, or other.

What is the Sweden Schengen Visa?

The Sweden Schengen Visa is a permit that allows non-European Union residents to travel to Sweden and all other countries within the Schengen Area for a short stay. With this visa, you are granted entry for tourist visits, business meetings, or transit to non-Schengen countries.

This visa is not an employment or residency permit. You won't be able to engage in paid work or pursue long-term studies with it. Business-related activities are restricted to meetings, conferences, and negotiations – essentially, you can conduct business but not work for a Sweden-based company or any other company located in a Schengen country.

Do Burundian citizens need a Sweden Schengen Visa?

Burundian passport holders need to secure a Sweden Schengen Visa before entering this Nordic country. Acting as your ticket to not only the breathtaking beauty of Sweden but to all other Schengen member states, this visa is a must-have.

There are additional conditions that you will need to meet apart from checking off the general visa requirements. First of all, Sweden must be your port of entry into the Schengen Zone. Secondly, if you're planning to visit other countries in the Zone, Sweden should be where you're spending the bulk of your time.

How long is the Sweden Schengen Visa valid for Burundian citizens?

The Sweden Schengen Visa from Burundi typically allows you to remain in the region for a maximum of 90 days Per Entry within a 6-month period.

While we do facilitate the application process for a Multiple Entry visa with a validity of 5 years after issued, the ultimate decision on your visa's duration is at the discretion of the Swedish consular officer assessing your application.

Various factors, including the reason for your trip and individual circumstances, influence the decision regarding your visa's validity. Hence, providing accurate information supported by the necessary documents is key to boosting your chances of receiving a Schengen visa with a validity that aligns with your travel plans.

Sweden Schengen Visa fee: Cost of the visa for Burundian citizens

When applying for your Sweden Schengen Visa with us, there are two main costs involved:

• iVisa service fee: This is USD $390.99 and does not include any government costs. By investing in our service, you'll get access to a range of benefits, including an extensive review of your application to catch any errors and an easy-to-follow guide that assists you in the visa application process.

• Government visa fee: The Sweden Schengen Visa fee is approximately $85 and is paid during your appointment at the designated Visa Application Center (VAC) or Swedish Embassy or Consulate. For children between 6 and 12 years old, the Swedish government offers a reduced visa fee, and it waives the cost entirely for children under 6.

What is the Sweden Schengen Visa processing time in 2023?

When you apply for your Sweden Schengen Visa through our website, it will take us a maximum of 30 days to process your application. This involves a detailed review of your form, rigorous verification of your documents, and booking of your visa appointment. Please note that this timeframe is separate from the time taken by the Swedish government.

Once your application has been submitted, it then enters the hands of a Swedish Embassy or Consulate. The standard processing time for your Schengen visa application is around 15 days. But be aware that this period could stretch up to 45 days, depending on the Embassy's workload and the individual circumstances of your application.

Why apply for the Sweden Schengen Visa with iVisa?

You enjoy the following benefits when applying with us:

• Flexible form completion - Fill out your form at your own pace, take breaks and save your progress.

• Guaranteed appointment scheduling - If you need one, we’ll secure your visa appointment promptly, sparing you the search for available dates.

• Expert agent support - Receive end-to-end expert assistance for any doubt or worry during the process.

• Real-time order tracking - Easily monitor your visa application process through your iVisa account.

Sweden Schengen Visa application: How to apply in Burundi

We have simplified your application process into three easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Begin by entering your personal details and travel information on our website.

Step 2: Pay our service fee securely using one of several options, including PayPal, Amazon Pay, Venmo, or a credit/debit card. Please note that the government visa fee is a separate expense, payable directly at the Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center where your visa appointment will take place.

Step 3: You'll be provided with a comprehensive guide after we confirm your payment. This guide will help you complete our straightforward version of the official visa application form. You'll also receive a checklist to ensure you collect all the necessary documents for the visa interview, which we will book on your behalf.

After your visa interview, you can download our mobile app and receive real-time updates on the status of your application wherever you are.

How to prepare for the Sweden Schengen Visa interview in Burundi?

The process of obtaining a Sweden Schengen Visa involves a crucial stage: the visa interview. Nailing this can significantly enhance your chances of visa approval. For Burundian citizens, here's how to make the best impression at your Sweden Schengen Visa interview:

1. Understand the process: Acquaint yourself with the particulars of the Sweden Schengen Visa. Each visa type comes with its unique rules and requirements, so be aware of what is expected for your category.

2. Prepare your documents: Gather all the required documents that the Swedish Embassy or Consulate needs. This usually includes your Burundian passport, application form, proof of sufficient funds, travel itinerary, and more. Ensure they are in order, and bring both originals and copies to the interview.

3. Anticipate questions: Prepare yourself for the common questions you're likely to encounter during the interview. They could revolve around your trip details, financial status, employment situation, among other areas.

4. Dress the part: Treat the visa interview like a job interview and dress professionally. It's an opportunity to make a good first impression.

5. Punctuality counts: Be sure to arrive early for your interview, factoring in potential hiccups like traffic or security checks.

6. Be confident: It's perfectly natural to feel nervous, but a calm and confident demeanor can leave a positive impact on the visa officer.

Sweden Schengen Visa requirements in Burundi

Preparing for your Sweden Schengen Visa application from Burundi is no small task, but we're here to make it as smooth as possible. There's a range of requirements for Burundian citizens, including important documentation, passport specifications, children-specific conditions, and precise photo guidelines.

Each of these components plays a crucial role in the successful processing of your visa application. Let's delve into these essential elements to provide you with the clarity needed to navigate this process with confidence.

Necessary documents for the Sweden Schengen Visa for Burundian citizens

Here are the key documents Burundian citizens need to prepare when applying for the Sweden Schengen Visa:

1. Valid passport: Your passport should be issued by the recognized government body in Burundi, authenticating your nationality and identity. Unofficial or unauthorized issuances may not be accepted.

2. Completed visa application form: Make sure to fill in all the necessary details accurately and truthfully.

3. Passport photos: Two passport-sized photos are required. Make sure these comply with the standard Schengen visa photo requirements.

4. Travel itinerary: This should include details of your travel plans, such as flight reservations or proof of organized tour participation.

5. Proof of accommodation: Documents that confirm your accommodation arrangements, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter if you're staying with a host.

6. Proof of financial means: This could be recent bank statements, proof of income, or a sponsorship letter demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Sweden.

7. Travel health insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for the entirety of your stay in the Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

8. Police certificate: A certificate from the Burundi police stating that you have no criminal record. The certificate must be recent and may need to be translated if it’s not in English or Swedish.

Sweden Schengen Visa requirements for children

If you're a Burundian parent or guardian planning a trip to Sweden with a child, there are a few additional steps to consider. The child must also have a valid Sweden Schengen Visa, with the application filled out on their behalf by an adult. Here are the necessary documents and information you'll need for the process:

• Birth certificate: The child's original birth certificate is required.

• Parental IDs: You'll need to provide copies of the identification cards and passports of both parents. Ensure to include copies of all pages containing relevant information.

• Consent letter: If the child will be traveling alone or with only one parent, a letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) must be provided.

• Proof of custody or parental status: In cases where one parent is deceased or absent, or if the legal guardian isn't the listed parent on the birth certificate, additional documentation is needed. This could be a court order, death certificate, or proof of legal guardianship.

• School letter: Provide a letter from the child's school containing details such as the child's name, grade, school holidays, and contact information, along with the name of a school representative.

• Group travel information: If the child is part of a travel group, a list of the names of all group members should be provided. This should also include details about the person leading the group.

All children must have their own passports and their visa application forms should also contain the names of their legal guardians.

Sweden Schengen Visa passport requirements

These are the passport requirements you need to fulfill while applying for your Sweden Schengen Visa as a Burundian citizen.

1. Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

2. Blank pages: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps and other markings.

3. Condition: The passport should be in a good state, free from any damages or significant wear and tear that might affect legibility.

Sweden Schengen Visa photo requirements

You will need two identical photos for your Sweden Schengen Visa application. Let's walk you through the key requirements:

• Recent photos: The photographs should have been taken within the last six months to ensure they reflect your current appearance.

• Color and quality: Ensure the photographs are in full color and printed on high-quality photo paper.

• Correct dimensions: The photographs should precisely measure 35mm x 45mm.

• Background: Choose a plain, light-colored (preferably white) background for your photos.

• Full face view: Your face should be centered and take up about 70-80% of the photograph.

• Headgear rules: If you wear religious or medical headgear, it should not obscure your face.

• Glasses rules: If you wear glasses, they must not obstruct your eyes or create glare on the lens.

Photographing babies can pose its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

• Whether seated or lying down, a gray or light-colored cloth can be used to create a contrasting background.

• Make sure no toys, bottles, blankets, or pacifiers are visible in the photo.

• If you're holding the child, your hands should not be visible.

• Both eyes of the child should be open, with the child facing the camera and keeping their mouth as neutral as possible. Multiple attempts may be needed to achieve the perfect shot.

• Be vigilant about image quality. Shadows, incorrect head positions, or an overexposed photo could render the image unacceptable.

There’s an easier way to get a government-compliant photo - through our [online digital photo service]! It’s an affordable and convenient way to ensure your passport photo is up to standard, and you can do it from the comfort of your home.

My Sweden Schengen Visa in Burundi was denied. What should I do?

First, seek clarity on why your application was denied. The Embassy usually provides an explanation for the rejection, which can guide your next steps. The rejection reasons could vary, ranging from a failure to provide adequate documentation, doubts over the intended visit's purpose, or concerns about the applicant's financial situation.

After understanding the reasons for the denial, you can choose to appeal the decision. The appeal letter should be submitted within three weeks from the date the rejection was issued.

You have the option to apply again. A previous attempt on your own might have resulted in a visa denial, but a change in approach could very well tip the balance in your favor.

Choosing to apply through us gives you access to the knowledge and skill set of our experienced iVisa Experts. Their expertise at each stage of the process could significantly increase your chances of securing that sought-after Sweden Schengen Visa.

Where can I contact you for more questions about the visa?

Need more information about the Sweden Schengen Visa? Don't hesitate to get in touch! Our customer support team is on standby and ready to help. Shoot us a message on our live chat or at [email protected].