Traveling abroad on any diplomatic mission, or even just visiting a country on vacation, requires much planning and preparation. Sweden is no exception.
Sweden has some of the best places to live and explore. Whether it’s a visit for tourism or a long-term stay, you’d need to be aware of the necessary documents and costs involved with taking a trip there.
Wondering what documents you need to prepare to visit Sweden?
We’ve gathered all the entry requirements for visiting Sweden. Make sure to have these on your checklist while planning for your trip.
Visa Requirements
Visa applications and requirements vary from country to country. If you’re intent on traveling to Sweden, knowing if a Schengen visa is required for your visit is best.
The laws surrounding visa requirements can vary depending on the country you’re from and the purpose of your visit. It’s necessary whether you’re visiting family and friends, doing business, or attending tours.
Since the Schengen agreement covers Sweden, most persons are required to apply for a Schengen visa. They should have this processed AT LEAST six months before their departure to prevent any hassles.
They would usually have to approach an external service provider to have this endorsed. You can visit your local embassy’s website to know which service providers are accredited by the embassy.
For some countries, like Korea, Japan, and Iran, you must submit a form online through an e-service. Others would have to submit their documents directly to the embassy.
You must submit these visa requirements to the relevant department of your Swedish embassy if you intend on applying.
Visa-Free Travel to Sweden
Some countries, like the US and Canada, enjoy visa-free travel for their non-EU citizens across Schengen countries. However, these are only applicable for travel periods below 90 days.
While not open to every nationality, Sweden can allow visa-free travel for specific ones without them needing to pay any additional fees. The one non-negotiable travel document will be your passport.
If you have a residence permit issued by other states in the Schengen area, you can travel to Sweden without a visa, whether by private or public transportation, like trains.
EU citizens can travel to Sweden if they can prove they’re a resident or a citizen in another Schengen country.
However, if you’re going to Sweden for a job or to study, you must apply for a Schengen visa appropriate for what you intend to do. Requirements vary, and keeping close contact with the Swedish embassy and website is best.
Schengen Visa
Since Sweden is a Schengen country, they’re bound by the Schengen agreement, allowing freedom of movement of persons, goods, and more.
Applying for a Schengen visa doesn’t only allow you to visit Sweden but other Schengen states as well. However, there are cases when your Schengen visa can be limited, depending on your reason for travel.
All decisions regarding your visa are registered and stored in the Visa Information System for five years. All Schengen states have access to this information to notify them regarding your status.
The visa is usually valid for 90 days during a period of 180 days. You may have to contact the relevant embassy to appeal for the maximum stay.
Remember that your final destination determines which country you’ll get your Schengen visa from. If you plan to visit Sweden before other Schengen countries, consider your itinerary before processing your visa applications.
Countries without Swedish representation or an embassy can apply for a Schengen visa to the closest authority to them. Since all information will be synchronized on the Visa Information System, Sweden will honor it.
You can learn more about the visa policy of the Schengen Area when you visit the Swedish Migration Agency’s website.
Long-Stay Visas
If you plan to stay longer than your predefined period, applying for a long-stay visa is best. This visa will allow you to exceed 90 days for business, study, or medical repatriation.
Applying for a work visa will entail different requirements than long-term student stays. It’s best to coordinate with the embassy closest to you for assistance with specific documents.
Many factors can affect your visa applications, from income to the reason for your visit. If you’re staying for personal reasons and not applying for a working visa, you must show that you have the money to pay for your stay.
It’s best to understand the law regarding extensions and when to approach an embassy if you need to stay longer.
After passing a complete application and getting your approval, you can visit Sweden for over 90 days.
However, you’re also expected to return home once your visa expires to avoid additional costs and problems with the police and your embassy.
Passport Requirements
Your passport is absolutely essential when traveling to other countries. It can save your life in Sweden and the rest of the Schengen countries.
Carrying your passport is important, especially when traveling to other Schengen countries. It serves as your primary proof of identity in a foreign country.
While Schengen states aren’t strict with borders, officials can easily reinstate borders if necessary.
You’ll need to note these passport requirements when fixing your documents for travel to Sweden.
Validity of Your Passport
Before leaving, you should check your passport details. Before booking your next vacation, your passport should be valid for AT LEAST three months after you visit the Schengen area.
It’s important to note that children’s passports are only valid for a maximum of 5 years, unlike passports issued to people 16 and above.
While your documents may still be valid, your children might have theirs expiring sooner. Have it renewed before booking anything if you notice it is about to expire before your visit.
Blank Pages Requirement
On top of validity, checking if you have enough blank pages for your entry and exit stamps is essential. We recommend having around 2 to 4 blank pages for your Schengen visa and corresponding stamps.
Some airlines won’t let you board the plane if you don’t have enough blank pages.
Contacting the relevant department is best if you don’t have enough blank pages. They can thus issue you the necessary documents.
Temporary Passport
A temporary passport is issued if there is an emergency and the original document isn’t available. These include passports that get lost, stolen, or damaged.
You must report any thefts or destruction to the authorities immediately. Sometimes, you must visit the embassy to have your documentation in order, especially if you’re already in Sweden.
Authorities usually consider the following matters when providing these emergency services:
- Legal matters
- Military service
- Severe illness or death of an immediate family member
- Employment issues
- Sudden illness requiring hospitalization in another country
- Medical treatment available in select countries
- Other situations, as approved by the state
Contact your closest home embassy or the local police for any assistance, especially if you’re already in Sweden. Addressing these cases immediately is the best way to avoid problems with the law during your visit.
COVID-19 Entry Requirements
As the world opens at the end of the pandemic, COVID entry requirements have become more lenient. However, it doesn’t change the fact that authorities still advise their citizens abroad and domestically to be cautious.
While masks and similar protective gear aren’t requirements for public places like parks and public transportation, there are still other ways to protect yourself.
Sweden still prioritizes everyone’s health care above anything else, so knowledge of any health-related requirements is a must.
These are the requirements and safety measures to remember following the pandemic.
Testing
You don’t need any tests before going to Sweden. However, tests are available if you ever feel sick while on your trip.
If you’re feeling COVID symptoms, dial 1117 in Sweden or visit Krisinformation.se to book a test. Results are usually returned electronically through their website.
Vaccination
Up-to-date vaccinations are RECOMMENDED by the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention to prevent the spread of COVID.
However, we advise you to bring a medical certificate if you can’t take the vaccine.
Quarantine
Quarantine isn’t a requirement upon arrival. However, you may need to isolate yourself if you’re feeling symptoms of COVID to prevent the possibility of spreading it.
There are also no restrictions for intercity and interstate travel. Anyone can enjoy traveling around Sweden without having to worry about curfews.
Traveling With Pets
If you plan to bring your pets to Schengen countries, they can have their own “Schengen visa”— several documents proving they’re safe to travel within the Schengen area.
While no quarantines are involved, preparing to bring pets costs much money and entails many more rules to keep all individuals crossing borders safe.
A pet visa isn’t only for domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets. They also apply to emotional support dogs and cats. Other animals may have other requirements to provide a safe visit and prevent the disruption of the local ecosystem.
Requirements for Bringing Pets
One of the most essential requirements is a pet microchip. It has to be an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. It ensures that equipment in different Schengen countries can quickly scan the microchip.
If your pet already has a microchip before your travel that doesn’t fit the requirements, we recommend doing the following:
- Bring your microchip scanner
- Contact the officials at the Border Inspection Post to check if they have the necessary scanners to read your pet’s microchip
- Have your veterinarian implant a compliant microchip and have it documented in your pet’s EU health certificate
Another vital requirement, whether from a high-rabies country or a controlled one, is rabies vaccination.
Pets must be vaccinated accordingly, especially if you’re from a high-rabies country.
Those from countries with rampant rabies cases would also need a rabies titer test to ensure their animals are safe to bring to Sweden.
All this information is included in the pet visa and health certificate you must bring while traveling.
Pet Passport and Health Certificate
Your pet’s passport includes all the details you’ll need to transport them to an EU country. They usually have similar requirements as other Schengen states, with a few differences across local laws.
If you intend to use non-commercial transport from a non-EU state to Sweden, you must have AT LEAST the pet microchip and vaccinations completed. However, if you’re from a high-rabies country, you’d also need the rabies titer test.
Your licensed veterinarian must complete a form or EU health certificate stating that taking your pet to Sweden is safe. Then, this should be endorsed by a government veterinarian within ten days of your arrival.
If you plan to travel from a different EU state to Sweden, you’d only need the microchip and vaccination. Have your EU pet passport updated accordingly.
When you have a complete application, you can easily bring your pet to most, if not all, Schengen countries.
REMINDER: These rules are only valid to people entering Sweden with a maximum of five pets. Requirements may vary for more pets, depending on what you intend to do with them during your visit.
Customs and Immigration Requirements
Once you have a complete application and all your documents are approved, you’re ready to head to the airport.
However, there are a few things to remember before you board your flight. You might bring items that require permission before entering Sweden.
These are the customs and immigration requirements you must consider during your trip to Sweden.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Many items are restricted to ensure livelihood security and the safety of local ecosystems.
You can’t bring meat, milk, and similar products to any EU state. You also can’t bring fruits, plants, flowers, seeds, and vegetables without a proper phytosanitary certificate.
Animals and products from endangered species are prohibited unless you have a Swedish Board of Agriculture permit.
Firearms, ammunition, and other dangerous weapons are prohibited and can’t be brought in or out of the country without permission.
Local authorities may also prohibit certain items, depending on your location. It’s best to be informed about them while packing.
Currency and Declaration Requirements
Travelers entering or exiting the EU, particularly Sweden, with €10,000/$11,000 or more in cash need to declare this sum to customs.
These declarations are meant to comply with the European Regulation (EC) No. 1889/2005.
Border Control and Security
Local authorities conduct strict border control for those entering or exiting a state to prevent crime and ensure all citizens’ safety. As a traveler, you must comply with any necessary security checks.
You must avoid any involvement in drug activity, crime, or terrorism and must report them to lawful authorities.
Border Control is also responsible for alerts and announcements during your traveling period.
Other Entry Requirements
All that information might be a lot to take in. However, more documents are needed to ensure your safety and that local authorities know your presence in Sweden.
Here are some of the other requirements you’d have to address before you can enter Sweden.
Travel Insurance
Unforeseen events can require emergency medical care and treatment. While medical care is free in Sweden, you must show your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to enjoy this benefit.
It’s best to buy medical insurance to help cover any medical evacuation. Your insurance should be valid during your visit to Sweden and any additional Schengen countries you plan to visit.
You’ll need AT LEAST €30,000/$33,000 to cover medical treatment and possibly send you back to your home country if needed. The maximum usually depends on your budget and how long you plan to visit.
It costs a lot, especially if you’re going on visa-free travel for under 90 days. However, it’s best to be prepared for possible emergencies.
Besides visa applications, the embassy can also suggest medical insurance plans that can help you depending on your budget.
Proof of Accommodation or Travel Itinerary
During Schengen visa applications and immigration questioning, you must provide information about where you’ll be staying.
You can pass the following documents as proof of your accommodation:
- Hotel reservation
- Invitation letter from your family member or friend
- Rental contract
You don’t need to show detailed proof about where you’ll be during your stay. However, it’s essential to show your detailed itinerary for your flight to prove that you won’t stay past your visa validity.
You’ll need to provide the following information:
- Flight date
- Flight code
- Arrival and departure dates
Requirements for Minors Traveling
Traveling with minors requires extra documentation, whether in Schengen countries or out. This also includes Sweden, especially with protection laws in place.
Persons traveling with a minor must submit the following to the embassy before their visit.
- Consent of the legal guardian (if the minor is traveling alone or with a different adult)
- Child’s birth certificate
- Copies of the legal guardian’s passports and ID cards
Children traveling with one parent may also need extra documentation to prevent international parental child abduction and other similar crimes.
It’s also important to know local laws regarding the treatment of children. If you break child protection laws during your visit, you may get in trouble with the local authorities.
Embassy, Consulate General, Honorary Consulate and Representation
You need to familiarize yourself with many relevant authorities when planning a trip abroad. These government offices provide the necessary assistance to protect us while traveling.
Before leaving, you’ll usually have to pass your documentation to the Swedish authorities closest to you. They are the ones who will process your Schengen visa and update your profile in their Visa Information System.
If there are no Swedish embassies near you, contacting the closest embassy or authority connected is best. We recommend the embassy of other Schengen states near you.
In the US, the most known is the Embassy of Sweden, Washington, D.C. They’re the ones who process most visa applications. As a US citizen, you should also be aware of the US embassy in Stockholm when you’re already in the country.
If you’ve been denied a Schengen visa, contacting the Swedish Ministry for an appeal for visa applications is possible. They can also suggest getting the necessary travel visa for your trips.
In case of an emergency, like the need for medical care or assistance with business in a different country, these persons are the ones who can provide the best help.
You can visit your embassy’s website to learn more about the services they can provide to citizens traveling to other countries.
FAQs
You may have more questions about traveling to Sweden and the bureaucratic steps to take.
We’ve gathered the most common ones to help you with your research further.
Are the Travel Restrictions in Sweden?
Entry restrictions when visiting Sweden vary depending on the country you’re coming from and why you intend to visit. However, there are general guidelines to help you grasp your dos and don’ts.
If you intend to stay more than 90 days, you must apply for the necessary visa to visit the country. Your passport should also be valid for at least three months after you visit Schengen countries.
Bring only what the authorities allow and avoid overstaying your welcome to keep your records clean.
It’s also vital to remember restrictions and proper practices to prevent spreading diseases like COVID.
It’s best to learn about the local law and order situation and what you can or can’t do during your visit.
Is COVID-19 Vaccination Required in Sweden?
As of 2023, this vaccination is RECOMMENDED for all unvaccinated individuals qualified to have the vaccine.
It’s best to bring documentation or a medical certificate if your health condition prevents you from getting vaccinated.
Conclusion
Visiting a country takes much preparation. On top of packing, there are visa applications and important documents you’d have to settle.
While these documents may seem tedious and time-consuming, it’s important to remember that they are for your safety and the host country’s. You’ll need to carry these documents while in Sweden.
Whether your visit lasts three months or two years, it’s best to follow all relevant rules and regulations.
It’s best to follow instructions and the local authorities to fully enjoy your travel to Sweden.
