Performing Artists

The performing artist category includes singers, musicians, dancers, circus artists and fairground workers, etc. Those accompanying the artist as technicians, road managers, etc, also fall under this category and must therefore have permits as well. Your permit must have been entered in your passport before your arrival in Sweden.

Performing artists who have been contracted for a temporary radio or TV engagement by the Swedish Broadcasting Corporation, the Swedish Television Company, the Swedish Educational Broadcasting Company or the Nordic Television Company are exempt from the work permit requirement for a period of one month.

Please submit the following documents:

• Application for Swedish work permit (form #149011), completed, signed and dated, and including detailed contact information.
  
  
• National passport or other travel document – valid until at least three months after the end of the trip.
  
  
• Notarized copy of US Alien Registration Card or other valid resident visa (type A, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, O, or R), if applicable.
  
  
• 2 passport photos, in color, taken from the front with the face depicted at a straight angle. 
  Digital files and photocopies of passport pictures will NOT be accepted.
  
  
• Form PF AMS 101707 (supplied by the employer).
  
  
• Contract with engagement organizer in Sweden, signed by both parties. (Your employer must guarantee you a salary or wage of at least 13,000 SEK per month before tax).
  
  
• Application fee, in the form of one money order or certified bank check, payable to the Embassy of Sweden. 
  
  
• Self-addressed stamped envelope or self-addressed pre-paid FedEx packing slip for return of passport.

How much does it cost?

The non-refundable application fee is $120.

How do I submit my application?

Applications with all required documents may be delivered in person during visiting hours or mailed directly to the following address:

Embassy of Sweden
Attn: Visa Section
2900 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20007

Applications must include a self-addressed stamped envelope or self-addressed pre-paid FedEx packing slip for return of passport.

Due to the large number of applications, the Embassy will NOT be able to confirm receipt of your documents. If you would like acknowledgement that your application has been received, please use registered mail or a delivery service such as FedEx that enables you to track packages online.

Please note that you might be requested to provide additional documentation.

Who decides my case?

The Embassy sends your application to the Migration Board in Sweden, which makes the decision. In some cases, the Board does not reach a decision until it has consulted with the specialist employment office for cultural workers (Kulturarbetsförmedlingen) in Sweden.

How long will I have to wait for a decision?

To be sure of obtaining your permit in time, you should submit your application at least 6-8 weeks prior to your departure for Sweden. 

You can request the return of your passport anytime during the application process. If you wish to have your passport returned immediately include a written request with your application. Please note that you will be required to pay double postage.

How long is a permit valid?

You will be granted a permit for the duration of your engagement.

May my family come with me?

Your family, i.e. spouse/cohabitant and children under 18, can obtain residence permits for the same period as you.

The co-application must be completed and submitted with the primary application. Please refer to the section on co-application for detailed instructions.