Securing a visa to attend the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships in Stockholm, Sweden, requires a specific process, as Sweden is a member of the Schengen Area. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get your visa with a focus on deadlines.

Step 1: Secure Your Tickets and Plan Your Trip

Proof of a confirmed flight and accommodation is crucial for your visa application. Although ticket sales for the World Figure Skating Championships have not been announced yet, you should be prepared to purchase them once they become available.

1. Monitor the Official Website: The official website for the event is https://isu-skating.com/figure-skating/events/eventdetail/isu-world-championships-2026/. While the page currently lists the event, it doesn’t have ticketing information. You should check the websites of the International Skating Union (ISU) and the Swedish Skating Federation for updates.
2. Book Your Accommodation: As soon as you have your ticket, book your hotel. Stockholm has an extensive range of hotels. The main venue for the event will likely be a central arena like the Ericsson Globe. Booking a hotel in a central location or one with good public transport links will be convenient.
3. Book Your Flights: Research and book your round-trip flights to and from Stockholm (ARN or Bromma) that align with your event dates. You do not need to purchase the tickets outright; however, you will require a confirmed reservation for your visa application.

Deadline: There is no specific ticket sale deadline yet, but be prepared to act quickly once they are announced. You should book your accommodation and flight reservations at least 4-5 months in advance to have them ready for your visa application.

Step 2: Arrange Your Schengen Visa Application

This is the most critical step and must be started well in advance.

1. Determine Your Visa Needs:
   • Visa-Free Travel: If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (e.g., the United States, Canada, Australia), you can travel to Sweden for up to 90 days within 180 days without a visa.
   • Schengen Visa Required: If your nationality is not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a short-stay Schengen visa.
2. Gather Required Documents: You must prepare a comprehensive set of documents for your application. This includes:
   • Visa Application Form: A completed and signed form.
   • Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages, and issued within the last 10 years.
   • Passport Photos: Two recent photos meeting Schengen visa photo requirements.
   • Flight Itinerary: Confirmed round-trip flight reservations.
   • Accommodation: Confirmed hotel bookings.
   • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements from the last three months, or a letter from a sponsor.
   • Travel Medical Insurance: Valid for the entire Schengen Area with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
   • Proof of Purpose of Visit: Your tickets for the World Figure Skating Championships will serve as crucial evidence of the reason for your trip.
   • Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents that prove you have a reason to return home, such as a letter from your employer, proof of property, or a letter from your school.
3. Schedule a Visa Appointment:
   • You must submit your application in person at a Swedish embassy, consulate, or a visa application center (like VFS Global) in your country of residence.
   • Application Deadlines:
     • Earliest: You can submit your application up to six months before your intended travel date.
     • Latest: The latest you should apply is 15 calendar days before your trip, but this is not recommended.
     • Recommended: To avoid delays, it is best to submit your application 3-4 months in advance. The standard processing time is around 15 calendar days, but it can take up to 60 days in complex cases.
4. Attend Your Interview:
   • At your appointment, you will submit your documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photo).
   • Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.

Disclaimer: This information is based on current Schengen visa policies. Specific deadlines and requirements can change. Always consult the official websites of the Swedish embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.