Entry Requirements and Visas
Sweden is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means entry requirements depend on your citizenship and where you're traveling from.
If you're a citizen of an EEA country or Switzerland, you don't need a visa to enter Sweden. You can stay up to 90 days with just a valid ID card or passport. Nordic citizens can stay indefinitely regardless of their purpose.
If you're traveling from another Schengen country (such as Norway or Finland), you can usually enter Sweden without inspections when traveling by land vehicle, on foot, or by boat, as long as you have nothing to declare. Be aware that ferries from Finland may check your ID, and there are often temporary border controls when coming from Denmark.
If you're arriving from outside the Schengen area, a visa granted by any Schengen member country is valid throughout the area, though the issuing country may offer additional rights like longer stays or work permits that apply only locally.
When entering Sweden, you must declare restricted goods including cash equivalent to €10,000 or more, pets, firearms, and wholesale commodities at a toll station. If traveling by ferry with duty-free shopping (such as those via Åland), expect customs checks even if staying within the EU. If carrying more tobacco or alcohol than permitted for personal import, keep evidence of tax payment in an EU country. Note that exporting snus (moist snuff) from Sweden to other EU countries is restricted.
Money, Currency and Costs
Sweden's currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK). The country is highly developed with a strong economy, which is reflected in the cost of living. Plan for moderately high expenses, particularly in Stockholm and other major cities, though costs vary depending on your travel style and choices.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Sweden is a highly developed country with strong rule of law and civil liberties protections, making it generally a safe destination for visitors. To contact emergency services, dial 112.
The international dialing code for Sweden is +46.
Health
Sweden maintains a universal healthcare system as part of its Nordic social welfare model. The country ranks very highly in health standards and medical quality. Visitors from EEA countries should carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare. Other visitors should obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses.
Staying Connected
Sweden is a highly developed country with modern telecommunications infrastructure. You can obtain local SIM cards from Swedish mobile operators, which provide cost-effective options for data and calls. Internet access is widely available throughout the country, particularly in urban areas and accommodations catering to tourists.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Sweden is a highly developed Nordic country with strong traditions of equality, punctuality, and respect for personal space. Swedes generally value directness in communication and tend to be reserved in initial interactions. Punctuality is important in both social and business settings. Removing shoes when entering homes is customary. Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.