In a significant diplomatic development, Sweden has resumed its visa services in Islamabad, allowing Pakistani nationals to apply for short-stay Schengen visas for travel to Sweden. The announcement follows the Bilateral Political Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and Sweden held in Stockholm on 2 July 2025.
Starting 7 July 2025, Pakistani citizens and residents planning short visits of up to 90 days to Sweden can now submit visa applications directly in Islamabad, marking the revival of a key consular service that had been suspended for several years.
The Pakistani delegation at the bilateral consultations was led by the Additional Foreign Secretary (Europe), while the Swedish side was headed by the Director General for Global Affairs of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden. Both sides emphasized the importance of fostering closer people-to-people and diplomatic ties.
Welcoming the move, Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that the decision to resume visa services reflects the growing strength of bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Embassy of Sweden in Islamabad confirmed the development, stating: “If you need to apply for a visa, you can now do so in Islamabad. As of July 7, you can apply for a Schengen visa in Pakistan for short visits to Sweden by submitting your application in Islamabad.”
Visa applications are being processed through VFS Global, the external service provider authorized by Sweden. Applicants are required to book an appointment with VFS Global in Islamabad and provide the necessary documents for short-stay travel. Further details about documentation, eligibility, and appointment scheduling are available on the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
The restoration of visa services is expected to ease travel for students, tourists, professionals, and families, while further strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties between Sweden and Pakistan.
