Travel to Sweden: Entry Rules Updated
On April 1, Sweden will lift its entry ban on non-essential travel from outside the European Union (EU). Consequently, travel restrictions on individuals from countries such as the US, the UK, and Australia, irrespective of vaccination status, will no longer be applicable.
The announcement to lift the entry ban was made by the Swedish Ministry of Justice.
“We have already lifted the entry ban within the EU. Now the government has decided not to extend the entry ban from third countries. This will make it much easier for everyone who has been prevented from coming to Sweden in recent years due to the pandemic,” stated Morgan Johansson, Sweden’s minister for justice and home affairs.
Additionally, on February 9, Sweden lifted all entry restrictions for travelers from other European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) countries, regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status. Therefore, by April, travelers from the rest of the world will also benefit from the eased restrictions.
This means all COVID-19 restrictions at the border will be lifted, and individuals will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or present a negative test for entry, regardless of their departure location.
What are Sweden’s Current Entry Rules?
Until April 1, those traveling to Sweden from outside the EU/EEA must still demonstrate proof of vaccination or provide a compelling reason to enter the country. Additionally, they are required to present proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours before entry.
Sweden’s neighbors, Denmark and Norway, have similarly lifted restrictions for non-EU travelers. However, Finland maintains requirements for travelers from outside the EU to present proof of vaccination or a recovery certificate.
Domestically, Sweden experienced the removal of pandemic restrictions on February 9, which included the elimination of face mask mandates and the requirement to show vaccination certificates for entering bars and restaurants. Tourist attractions such as museums, theaters, and amusement parks are now operating at full capacity.
