Apply in person at the Migration Agency in Gothenburg, Malmö, or Stockholm. Bring ID if you have it. You’ll give fingerprints, tell your story with an interpreter, and can request financial support. If approved, you may receive protection and a temporary residence permit. Waiting times vary—always update your address and provide honest information.
This information explains how to apply for asylum and what will happen when you apply. It tells you where you must apply, what you need to do at the Migration Agency, what rights children have, and what important things to remember while you wait for a decision. Each asylum application is different and is looked at one by one, based on your personal reasons.
You must apply for asylum in person through Migrationsverket (the Swedish Migration Agency).
Applications can be made in:
- Gothenburg
- Malmö
- Stockholm
children arriving without parents
Unaccompanied children can also apply for asylum in:
- Boden
- Norrköping
- Sundsvall
- Umeå
- Uppsala
- Örebro
Each asylum application is looked at individually. The Swedish Migration Agency reviews your situation and the reasons why you are seeking protection in Sweden.
If a child applies for asylum, their case is considered separately from their parents' case. This is because a child may have their own reasons for needing protection.
Children who arrive in Sweden without their parents are given a legal guardian. The guardian helps the child and supports them during the asylum process.
Children can also have a trusted adult with them during interviews with the Migration Agency.
Processing times vary. Some applications are decided quickly, while others take longer.
If Sweden decides that you need protection, you will be granted a protection status and usually a residence permit.
There are two main forms of protection:
1
refugee status
Granted to people who meet the definition of a refugee under international and Swedish law.
2
subsidiary protection
Granted to people who do not qualify as refugees but would face serious harm if returned to their home country.
The type of protection granted affects your rights and residence permit. Permit lengths and related rules can change over time, so always check the latest guidance from Migrationsverket.
☐ complete the necessary forms
This involves providing your name, citizenship, and details about your family.
☐ submit ID
Hand in your passport or other identity documents to the Migration Agency to prove who you are.
☐ have your photo taken
The Migration Agency will take your photograph.
☐ provide your fingerprints
Your fingerprints will be collected and checked to determine if you have previously applied for asylum, hold a residence permit, or have travel restrictions in another European country.
☐ tell your story
You will need to explain who you are, the reasons for leaving your home country, and your journey to Sweden.
An interpreter will be available if you are not fluent in Swedish or English.
☐ apply for money support (if you have no money)
If you do not have your own money, you can ask for financial support.
You will get:
- a bank card (link to bank card info. within new roots money category)
- information about what money support you can apply for
☐ get information about the asylum process
You will be told:
- what will happen next
- what you need to do next
☐ get information about daily life
You will get information about:
- housing
- healthcare
- schools for your children
- The Migration Agency will notify you via mail when it's your turn for an appointment, specifying the date, time, and location to meet your case officer
- It's crucial to promptly inform the agency of any change in your residential address. Failure to do so could result in you missing vital correspondence regarding your asylum investigation
- When attending your interview, ensure you bring all pertinent documents and evidence you wish the Migration Agency to review
- Regularly checking your postal mail is essential, as important updates concerning interviews or case decisions are communicated through this channel, and a missed letter could lead to significant delays
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Rules regarding residence permits, work permits, and employment in Sweden may change and depend on individual circumstances. Always consult the Swedish Migration Agency or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your case.
- Be honest and prepare for your asylum interview. Tell the truth and think through your story in advance
- Keep all documents safe and organized. Save letters, decisions, receipts, and copies of important papers in one place so you can find them easily
- Ask questions when you don’t understand something. You have the right to clear information, so don’t hesitate to ask the Migration Agency, your guardian, or your lawyer for help
↗ Apply for asylum in Gothenburg
↗ Apply for asylum in Stockholm
↗ Apply for asylum in Malmö
↗ Financial aid for asylum seekers
where do I apply for asylum?
You must apply in person at the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) in Gothenburg, Malmö, or Stockholm. Children without parents can also apply in several additional cities.
can I apply online or by phone?
No. Asylum applications must be made in person in Sweden.
what if I don’t have a passport or ID?
You should still apply. Bring any documents you have that help show who you are and support your story.
will I get an interpreter?
Yes. If you don’t speak Swedish or English, an interpreter will help you during interviews.
can I get financial support while waiting?
Yes. If you don’t have money, you can apply for financial support and receive a bank card.
how long does the process take?
Waiting times vary because every case is assessed individually. You will receive a letter when it is time for your interview.
what types of protection can I receive?
If Sweden decides you need protection, you may receive refugee status (usually a 3-year residence permit) or subsidiary protection (usually a 13-month residence permit).
what should I do while waiting for a decision?
Always tell the Migration Agency if you move so you don’t miss important letters. Provide honest information and submit any documents that support your case.
do children have special rights in the asylum process?
Yes. Children’s cases are assessed separately, and children without parents are given a guardian to support them during the process.