Travel information
Apply for a passport
If you haven’t already applied for a passport, you should do so immediately. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end date of your program. You can apply for a passport at the International Center — call 573-882-6007 to make an appointment.
Visa information
The information provided here applies to U.S. citizens and is subject to change without warning at the discretion of the Swedish government. It is your responsibility to confirm all requirements.
Read the information below carefully and contact your study abroad adviser if you have questions about the residence permit process or requirements.
Non-EU/EEA citizens must have been granted a student residence permit (uppehållstillstånd för studier) before entering Sweden. In order to qualify for a residence permit, you must have been granted admission to full-time studies (at least 30 credits per semester). You should apply for your permit on the Migration Agency’s website or at the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate two to three months before departure. Don’t leave for Sweden without your student residence permit! A tourist visa is not sufficient as it is only valid for three months. You need the following documents when applying for your student residence permit:
- Copy of your passport
- Letter of acceptance from Linnaeus University, called the Notification of Selection Results
- Certificate showing comprehensive medical insurance coverage valid in Sweden
- Proof of funds
Fee-paying students are covered by the FAS insurance (on the condition that you have paid your tuition fee for the first semester). This insurance is issued under the authority of Kammarkollegiet. You can find the information regarding the FAS insurance on the Notification of Selection Results, which is to be uploaded when the Migration Agency asks you for proof of insurance. You must also provide a bank statement showing sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies (e.g., a bank guarantee), approximately SEK 8190 per month, or a document proving you have been awarded a scholarship or a study grant/student loan/salary or equivalent, detailing the amount and period during which you will be receiving the funds.
If you are not traveling abroad on a U.S. passport, you must:
- Notify your study abroad adviser.
- Determine if a visa is required for your study abroad program.
Read more about the student residence permit on the Linnaeus University website.
European Entry/Exit System
Beginning Oct. 12, 2025, an Entry/Exit System will be deployed across the external borders of 29 European countries. This EES applies to non-European Union nationals traveling for a short stay to one of the countries who either possess a short-stay visa or do not need a visa to stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. In addition to capturing travel document data, the EES will capture your facial image and possibly your fingerprints. There is no fee associated with the EES.
Find more information on the Entry/Exit System website.
Arrival information
Review the Linnaeus University academic calendar.
During the official arrival day, the Linnaeus University International Office provides pickup upon your arrival in Kalmar or Vaxjo. A student will meet you at the airport or train station as long as you fill out the arrival form by the date listed in your acceptance packet. When you arrive at the university, you will be provided with additional information. It is mandatory to check in with the university when you arrive.
To help you settle in at Linnaeus University, a mandatory orientation weekend is held at the beginning of each semester. You will received both practical and academic information during orientation.