Immigrate to Sweden from Russia

Despite the uncertain situation in Ukraine and the conflict with Russia, Sweden applies the EU restrictions for Russian citizens: visa facilitation has been suspended since September 2022 and, since November 2025, Russians are as a rule issued only single-entry Schengen visas. Also, after the coronavirus restrictions were also lifted starting on April 1st, 2022, it is now possible to freely travel to Sweden just like before. However, the authorities recommend applying for visas at least 3 or 4 weeks prior to arriving in the case of non-EU/non-EEA citizens.

Those who want to immigrate to Sweden from Russia for a longer-term, however, are required to apply for a temporary residence permit first. We recommend using the services of our immigration law firm in Sweden to apply for the right type of document in accordance with the reason to stay.

Permits under which it is possible to relocate to Sweden from Russia on a short-term

When deciding to move to Sweden from Russia, the first aspect to consider is the duration of stay. Based on it, one will need to choose an appropriate type of residence permit. Currently, here are the main papers issued to those moving here for a short period of time:

• cultural visas are available for Russian citizens who come to Sweden for up to 90 days within any 180-day period; these are considered Schengen visas;
• medical visas enter the same category as cultural visas, they allow for multiple entries that must not exceed 3 months within a total period of 6 months;
• visitor or tourist visas are available for Russian citizens who want to visit family or friends and have a limited validity of 3 months;
• business visas with the same duration of 90 days and are available for Russian entrepreneurs coming for conferences, meetings, or to enter partnerships or associations.

These are rather easy to apply for and obtain, as it takes about 15 days for a visa application to be processed. For long-term visas for those who want to immigrate to Sweden from Russia, the procedure depends on the reason for moving.

Feel free to get in touch with our immigration lawyers in Sweden if you have any questions about coming here.

Many foreign citizens ask how soon a residence permit in Sweden is issued. The procedure is quite fast, however, it can depend on the number of requests to be processed, as well as on the accuracy of the information submitted. If you need support in filing for residency, do not hesitate to contact our local lawyers.

Entry requirements for Russian citizens coming from EU/EEA countries

Many Russian citizens are established in other countries in Europe, and if these countries are in the EEA or the EU, Russians holding residence permits there can move to Sweden much simpler. More precisely, those permits only allow visits of up to 90 days; to live in Sweden they still need a Swedish residence permit.

Family reunification is also a simpler way to relocate to Sweden from Russia, as the relative living in Sweden can extend the invitation of joining him or her.

We can also provide specific services to those who do not necessarily need to apply for residence permits but need assistance in registering with the local authorities.

Obtaining long-term residency in Sweden as a Russian

People who want to immigrate to Sweden from Russia and plan to remain here indefinitely can do that by applying for work permits, marrying Swedish citizens, or by starting their own businesses.

Work-permit holders can obtain permanent residency after 4 years of work within the last 7 years, and the applicant is required to live here during this timeframe. Citizenship can be acquired after 8 years of living here (since 6 June 2026).

Get in touch with our immigration lawyer in Sweden for information on the procedure of obtaining a permanent residence card.

How many Russians live in Sweden?

According to the latest information, there are about 22,000 Russian citizens living in Sweden. Those who want to move here can do that under the same conditions applicable to nationals of other countries.

Contact our lawyers for assistance if you want to immigrate to Sweden from Russia. Investment is considered in many countries an advantageous way to gain citizenship. This is not the case of Sweden, which has no citizenship or residency by investment programme. Entrepreneurs can instead apply for a self-employment permit and later naturalise through residence. However, there are also other requirements to meet, so it is advisable to use our services in this sense. We can also help you if you want to open securitisation vehicles in Luxembourg. We can put you in touch with our reputable local partners from startluxembourgfund.com.