If your Sweden Schengen visa application was rejected, don’t lose hope just yet. The Embassy of Sweden has outlined a clear appeal process that allows applicants to challenge a refusal decision. However, the rules are strict, and the appeal must be filed within three weeks from the day you receive your rejection letter.
Here’s a complete guide to help Indian applicants understand how the appeal system works, what documents are needed, and how long the process can take.
Sweden Schengen Visa Appeal – Deadline Matters
- You must submit your appeal within 3 weeks of receiving the decision letter.
- Appeals sent after this window will not be considered.
- The clock starts ticking the day you get your refusal notice, so it’s critical to act fast.
How to File an Appeal
Your appeal must be written and include:
- The decision you are appealing against
- What changes you want to the decision (e.g., visa approval instead of refusal)
- Personal details: Full name, date of birth, postal address, email, and contact number
- New or additional documents supporting your case (if available)
Submission Options
- Email: Send to migration.new-delhi@gov.se
- Post: Submit a physical copy directly to the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi
Important: Do not send multiple appeals through different methods, as it slows down processing.
If someone else files the appeal on your behalf, they must provide a valid power of attorney.
Document Preparation Tips
The Embassy strongly encourages applicants to keep the appeal letter concise and under one page. Supporting documents should be neatly arranged and merged into 2–3 PDF files for easy review. These typically include:
- Signed appeal letter (signature must match the one in your passport)
- Documents already submitted with your original visa application
- Any new evidence or additional documents to strengthen your case
Pro tip: Compress large files before sending. Smaller files upload and process faster.
What Happens After You File the Appeal?
There are two possible scenarios:
1. Embassy Reviews and Changes Its Decision
If the Embassy finds your appeal valid or new documents persuasive, the refusal may be overturned within a few working days.
2. Case Escalates to the Administrative Court in Stockholm
If the Embassy maintains its decision, your file is forwarded to the Administrative Court (Förvaltningsrätten) in Stockholm. At this stage:
- The Embassy sends your application, decision, and all related documents to the court.
- The court reviews the case independently and delivers the verdict to your postal or email address mentioned in the appeal.
- Once transferred, all communication must be made with the court, not the Embassy.
Appeal Timelines – What to Expect
- Embassy Review: Just a few days if the decision is overturned directly.
- Court Review: Can take several weeks or even months, depending on caseload.
The Embassy advises applicants to check official processing times regularly to avoid frustration and set realistic expectations.
Key Takeaways – Don’t Miss the Deadline
- You have exactly 3 weeks from receiving your rejection letter to file an appeal.
- Appeals must be submitted in writing, brief, and supported by valid documents.
- If the Embassy doesn’t change its decision, the Administrative Court in Stockholm will handle your case.
- Organizing documents smartly and submitting within the timeline gives you the best chance of success.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Sweden Schengen visa rejection can be disheartening, but the appeal process provides a second chance to demonstrate why your application deserves approval. By following the Embassy’s guidelines, preparing documents carefully, and respecting the strict three-week deadline, applicants can ensure their case is given fair consideration.
✨ Remember: The strongest appeals are those that provide new or overlooked evidence, are well-structured, and submitted on time.
