Yes, a visa is required to travel from The Gambia to Sweden.
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Do I need a visa for Sweden from The Gambia?
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Gambian nationals need a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa to visit Sweden. No waiver applies to tourist stays of under 90 days.
Sweden is a member of the Schengen area, and The Gambia is not on the list of visa-exempt countries. A traveller from The Gambia hoping to explore Stockholm, Gothenburg or Lapland must apply for a visa before departure through the competent Swedish mission or its intake partner.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. A citizen of The Gambia must obtain a Schengen Type C visa for a tourist stay in Sweden, valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Sweden must be your main destination for its authorities to be responsible. No visa is issued on arrival — the application must be made in advance.
How and where to apply
Sweden does not maintain an embassy in every country; for The Gambia, responsibility often lies with a regional Swedish mission (for example in Dakar) or a partner visa application centre (VFS Global). Check which embassy is responsible, book an appointment and attend in person for fingerprinting. The file is forwarded to the Swedish Migration Agency for a decision.
Documents and fees
Prepare: the completed and signed Schengen form, a passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure with two blank pages, two compliant photos, travel insurance covering at least €30,000, a return flight booking, proof of accommodation, financial evidence and the purpose of travel. The visa fee is normally €90 for an adult, with a possible service fee on top.
Processing and tips
Processing normally takes 15 to 45 days; apply no earlier than six months before travel and at least 15 days ahead. A yellow-fever vaccination certificate may be requested depending on your routing, so check the health requirements. Confirm the exact fee, timeline and intake partner on the official source before finalising your bookings.
Common mistakes
Refusals often stem from insufficient insurance, poorly evidenced funds, a passport with too little validity, or applying at a mission that is not competent for The Gambia. Do not buy non-refundable tickets before the visa is granted, and keep your dates and itinerary consistent.
Official sources
- Sweden Abroad — visa information
- Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)
- European Commission — Schengen visa policy
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential Sweden information
Sweden is a Nordic country in Northern Europe, renowned for its high standard of living, innovation, and environmental commitment. It is a member of the European Union and NATO since 2024. Capital: Stockholm.
Weather in Stockholm
Practical travel information
- suédois
- finnois (minorité)
Essential preparations
- Police : 112
- Ambulance : 112
- Fire brigade : 112
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Sweden from The Gambia?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 5 years).
How long can you stay in Sweden?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 5 years.
What other visa types exist for Sweden?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Sweden offers among others: Job seeker permit (highly qualified), Self-employed permit, EU Blue Card, Work permit, Study residence permit, Researcher permit.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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