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One Residency Permit Timeline

The Swedish Consulates and Embassies refused to even estimate how long this process actually was going to take me to complete. The worst part about this whole thing is that you have to wait for a decision to be made which seems like forever and the uncertainty that you might not get it is tough to deal with. But if you have a real relationship then you don't really have anything to worry about. I hope this helps you in determining how long this process may take you…

I started the paperwork on May 15th, 2001.

I filled out the residency permit application which I downloaded from www.Migrationsverket.se. I enclosed two passport pictures, my passport, the application, a letter from me describing why I wanted the permit, a letter from my girlfriend explaining why she wanted me there and a letter from her father guaranteeing financial assistance.

I sent it in to the New York office on May 30th via fedex.

I think it might save a couple of days if you send it directly to the Chicago Consulate.

I was notified by letter on July 3rd that I would have my interview on July 31st.

Interview took place on July 31st and lasted about 75 minutes.

I was asked when did I meet my girlfriend, how many times we have seen each other (where and when), all about her family, my family, our plans regarding living together (marriage???), my education and everything about her. Where she grew up, where did she go to school, who were her friends, what about past boyfriends, and a host of other questions. The only one that stumped me was what did her parents do?

Anyways, do not fear this interview - it is easy, stress free and if you truly have a relationship with a Swede who wants you there you are going to get it. It just takes time… One last thing on the phone interview, make sure you have a phonecard to call Chicago where the phone interview will originate from.

August 15th my girlfriend received a lengthy (10 plus pages) questionnaire which was undoubtedly the same thing the nice woman used when interviewing me. She returned it on the 17th.

Then, on September 5th, my girlfriends family was notified that I got it.

I received my passport with Visa inside on September 10th.

The whole process took just about 3 ½ months.

I have heard stories where it took only six weeks to complete the process but I have heard more that took over 6 months. In fact some permits may take up to a year to process. All in all, I think my results are pretty typical, maybe a tad on the fast side. Perfect, just in time for winter!