Application forms, powers of attorney and instructions

Before you begin filling in a form, it is important to read these points to make sure you do so correctly. If an application under the Brussels II Regulation is to be sent to an EU country outside the Nordic region, the English application form should be used.

The application form

  • Fill in the form as carefully as possible to avoid having to provide additional information that could delay processing.
  • The application should be typed or clearly printed.
  • Some countries have set linguistic reservations; see the country to which the child has been removed.
  • Indicate whether the foreign central authority will try to facilitate a voluntary return of the child.
  • Specify whether you wish to be assigned a representative/lawyer.
  • Do not forget to sign the application form.

Please note! The application form must be submitted in the original.

Documents that are to be included with the application (Hague Convention)

  • A detailed description of the circumstances in the case (under point 4.2 of the application form).
  • Two separate powers of attorney, one for the Swedish authority and one for the foreign central authority, that give each authority the right to act on behalf of the applicant.
  • An extract from the population register issued by the Swedish Tax Agency specifying the child's legal guardian and the child's place of residence.
  • Copies of any court rulings or agreements regarding custody, residence or access rights.
  • A copy of a marriage certificate (if applicable).
  • A copy of a divorce ruling (if applicable).
  • A photo and description of the child.
  • A photo and description of the person who has removed or retained the child.

Please not that you should have the documents translated into the appropriate language.

The documents to be included with the application under the Brussels II Regulation are listed on the last page of the application.

A list of the countries in which the 1980 Hague Convention applies with regard to Sweden can be downloaded from the column on the right.

The Brussels II Regulation applies with regard to all EU Member States except Denmark.

Ministry for Foreign Affairs (email to the Ministry)
Published 14 January 2009
Last updated 16 January 2009