Exercise normal precautions in Sweden.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Sweden:
Six months recommended
Two pages required for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sweden for information on U.S.-Sweden relations.
Visit the Embassy of Sweden’s website for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sweden.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Sweden has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past, and the potential for a terrorist incident remains. Like other countries in the Schengen area, Sweden's open borders with its Western European neighbors could permit terrorist groups to enter and exit the country with anonymity. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
Crime: Sweden has a low crime rate. Violent crimes, such as homicides and sexual assaults, do occur in Sweden; however, the majority of violent crimes occur in larger cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact local police authorities by dialing 112. Crime victims should contact the U.S. Embassy at +(46) (8) 785-5300 after they have contacted local authorities.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested or prosecuted if you break the law.
Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Compulsory Military Service: In March 2017, Sweden reintroduced military conscription for men and women. Enrollment will begin July 1, 2017, and Sweden plans for 4,000 recruits annually in 2018 and 2019. Dual U.S./Swedish citizens are also subject to conscription, though persons who have previously done military service may be excluded from the requirement and should contact the Swedish Ministry of Defense for more information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Sweden. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Accessibility to public facilities and transportation in Sweden is good. The Swedish Government actively funds programs promoting disability access to streets, public buildings, stores, restaurants, and public transportation. For more information on accessibility in Sweden, visit the Tourist Bureau’s website.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Medical care in Sweden is comparable to that found in the United States. Though it is state-sponsored, it only covers the medical costs of Swedish citizens and residents. Non-residents are expected to pay their own medical costs in full.
The Embassy does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Driving is on the right in Sweden, as in the United States.
Traffic Laws: You can use a valid U.S. driver's license while visiting Sweden, but you must be at least 18 years-old to drive.
Public Transportation: Public transport in Sweden is the recommended way to travel.
Refer to our road safety page for more information. We suggest that you visit the website of Sweden’s national tourist office and the Swedish Transport Administration.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Sweden’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to Sweden’s Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. Sweden permits service via postal channels in accordance with Article 10(a) of the Hague Service Convention. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention. See also Sweden’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from Sweden in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. The Central Authority for Sweden for the Hague Evidence Conventiondesignated to receive letters of request for the taking of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on how to prepare a letter of request. Requests under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to the Swedish Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. Requests should be submitted in duplicate with Swedish translations. See the Swedish Declarations and Reservations regarding the Hague Evidence Convention. See also Sweden’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from Sweden to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L Street N.W., Room 8102, Washington, D.C. 2053
Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters are permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness. However, prior permission from the Swedish Foreign Ministry is required. In order to obtain this permission, contact the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. Embassy directly.
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Sweden’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Conventionwill authenticate Swedish public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in Sweden, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
Sweden and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since June 1, 1989.
For information concerning travel to Sweden, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Sweden.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Sweden. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-736-9132
Website
The Swedish Central Authority (SCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The SCA performs an administrative role in processing Hague applications. The SCA receives and reviews the Hague application package to make sure it is complete. It confirms receipt of the application by a faxed letter to the U.S. Central Authority and, if necessary, requests any additional information or documentation. If the left-behind parent or legal guardian asks the SCA for a negotiated voluntary return, the SCA will contact the taking parent to inform him/her of the application, describe the procedure under the Convention, and ask if he/she wants to reach a voluntary agreement to avoid litigation.
If the location of the taking parent and child is unknown, the SCA will search for the child by any appropriate means, depending on individual case circumstances. In this respect, the SCA may contact other Swedish authorities, such as tax authorities, the Swedish Migration Authority, law enforcement agencies, social welfare agencies and/or schools where the taking parent and child might be located.
The SCA can be reached at:
Department for Consular Affairs and Civil Law
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
SE-103 39
Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: 011-46-8-405-1000
Telephone: 011-46-8-405-5001
Fax: 011-46-8-723-1176
registrator@foreign.ministry.se
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Sweden, the applicant should submit the Hague application package by courier to: Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20520-2818. The Office of Children's Issues will forward the case to the SCA, which will appoint an attorney to file legal proceedings at the Stockholm District Court, which is the initial court to hold proceedings for Hague cases in Sweden. A professional judge and three lay judges adjudicate Hague cases at this level.
The Stockholm District Court then sets a date for hearing and orders the parties to present any written evidence to the court within a very limited period of time. The court will also request the presence of the taken-parent at the hearing. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the SCA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Swedish central authorities. Additional costs, which are the responsibility of the applicant, may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Sweden. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Sweden. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.
There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.
The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.
There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Sweden is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of the child’s country of origin.
Sweden is not generally considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. There are few children eligible for adoption in Sweden. There is no national adoption waiting list system in Sweden; each municipality is individually responsible for finding homes for any child residing in its respective area. Most intercountry adoptions in Sweden are by legal residents of Sweden who adopt in third countries.
While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Swedish orphan by foreigners is unlikely. A child residing in Sweden could be adopted to another country ONLY in the case that the foreign prospective adoptive parents were either relatives or other persons with pre-existing ties to the child. In either case, the relevant municipality would identify the child eligible for adoption before the prospective adoptive parents would initiate adoption proceedings in the receiving country.
No Swedish orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Sweden in which a Swedish child is adopted by relatives in the United States or by person(s) in the United States with other strong ties to the child, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Sweden.
U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS
To bring an adopted child to the United States from Sweden, you must meet eligibility and suitability requirements. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), determines who can adopt under U.S. immigration law.
Additionally, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee under U.S. law in order to immigrate to the United States on an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.
In addition to the U.S. requirements, Sweden requires prospective adoptive parents to meet the following Swedish requirements in order to adopt a child:
In addition, all such prospective adoptive parents must take part in a parental preparation course assigned by the municipality where they reside. This course must be completed in order for the investigation/home study to be initiated. The cost of the course varies but is approximately 2000 SEK = $250.
If non-residents of Sweden seek adoption of a related child residing in Sweden, the Social Welfare Committee in the area where the child is residing would conduct an investigation to determine if the adoption would be in the best interest of the child. The prospective adoptive parents would be evaluated by the appropriate authorities in their country of residence – in this case the United States.
Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, children from Sweden must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Sweden have determined that placement of the child within Sweden has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests. In addition to Sweden’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.
For specific requirements under Swedish adoption law, please contact Sweden’s Adoption Authority listed under the contact section of this flyer.
WARNING: Sweden is party to the Hague Adoption Convention. Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.
Sweden’s Adoption Authority
Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority (MIA)
Ministry of Health and Social Affairs
Box 308
101 26 Stockholm
Tel: +46 (8) 54555680
Fax: +46 (8) 650 4110
Email: info@mia.eu
Internet: www.mia.eu
Note: Most of the following information refers to the process of adopting from Sweden as country of origin, and would be used only in rare adoption cases from Sweden. Contact the MIA for more information on the process of adopting a child from a third country to Sweden.
Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Sweden must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.
After you choose an accredited or approved adoption service provider, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt by the responsible U.S. government agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), by submitting Form I-800A. Read more about Eligibility Requirements.
Once USCIS determines that you are “eligible” and “suited” to adopt by approving the Form I-800A, your adoption service provider will provide your approval notice, home study, and any other required information to the adoption authority in Sweden as part of your adoption dossier. Sweden’s adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Swedish law.
If both the United States and Sweden determine that you are eligible to adopt, and the municipality in Sweden has determined that a child is available for adoption and that intercountry adoption is in that child’s best interests, the municipal authority in Sweden may provide you with a referral for a child. The referral is a proposed match between you and a specific child based on a review of your dossier and the needs of a specific child in Sweden. The authority in Sweden will provide a background study and other information, if available, about the child to help you decide whether to accept the referral or not. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs and provide a permanent home for a particular child. If you accept the referral, the adoption service provider communicates that to the authority in Sweden. Learn more about this critical decision.
After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval for the child to immigrate to the United States (Form I-800). USCIS will make a provisional determination as to whether the child meets the definition of a Convention Adoptee and will be eligible to enter the United States and reside permanently as an immigrant.
After provisional approval of Form I-800, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, that is responsible for issuing immigrant visas to children from Sweden. A consular officer will review the Form I-800 and the visa application for possible visa ineligibilities and advise you of options for the waiver of any noted ineligibilities.
WARNING: The consular officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5 Letter”) to the Swedish authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Sweden where all Convention requirements are met and the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States. This letter will inform the Swedish authority that the parents are eligible and suited to adopt, that all indications are that the child may enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.
Do not attempt to adopt or obtain custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter in any adoption case.
Remember: The consular officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child from Sweden, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption from Sweden.
The process for finalizing the adoption or gaining legal custody in Sweden generally includes the following:
Note: MIA's role as Central Authority is relevant only to intercountry adoptions to Sweden from a third country of origin. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality of the child's residence in Sweden is the competent authority in the case of adoption of a Swedish child.
ROLE OF THE COURT: The final adoption of a relative child from Sweden to the U.S. will need to take place in a U.S. court. A Swedish court does not have authority to decide on an adoption from Sweden. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality where the child resides will determine if the child should be adopted or not.
For adoption cases in which the parents reside in Sweden, the adoption decree is issued by the local District Court (Tingsrätt, www.dom.se). Decrees are not available in English. At this point the legal relationship between adoptive parents and adopted child is equal to the relationship between biological parents and children. An adoption in Sweden is not reversible.
When the adoptive parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Swedish population registry, maintained by the Swedish Tax Agency, of the adoption and you may order a new birth certificate from them: www.skatteverket.se. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.
ROLE OF ADOPTION AGENCIES: A list of Swedish adoption agencies authorized to provide adoption services in third countries is available at www.mia.eu .
ADOPTION APPLICATION: For prospective adoptive parents residing in Sweden, the Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority web site www.mia.eu has detailed information about Swedish adoption law, policy and procedures. Information is provided in both Swedish and English .
ADOPTION FEES: In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.
Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting to Sweden from a third country include:
Prospective adoptive parents can expect to pay from approximately 80 000 – 200 000 SEK, approximately US $10,000 to $23,000 for adoption services, including the cost for the trip to pick up the child and return to Sweden. There are no government fees. Most parents can qualify for a Swedish government grant of approximately SEK 40 000, approximately US $5,000, when they return with the child to Sweden.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: A list of documents needed to apply for adoption as a Swedish resident/citizen can be found at www.mia.eu .
Note: Additional documents may be requested.
AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS: The United States and Sweden are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. U.S. public documents may be authenticated with Apostilles by the appropriate U.S. Competent Authority
Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents before your child can travel to the United States:
Birth Certificate
When adopting a relative child from Sweden: Since the adoption will be finalized in the United States, you cannot obtain a new birth certificate in Sweden. You will receive documentation from the Social Welfare Committee giving consent to the adoption of the child, and based on that the child will be allowed to leave Sweden for final adoption in the U.S.
When residing in Sweden and adopting a child from Sweden or from a third country: Swedish birth certificates, so-called Personbevis, are issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket, www.skatteverket.se). When the parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Tax Agency when the adoption is final to update the child's information. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.
Swedish Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Sweden.
Swedish passports are issued by the Swedish police. Applications are submitted at your local police station. For application procedures, please see the Swedish police website www.polisen.se.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to finalize your application for a U.S. visa for your child from the U.S. Consulate General in Stockholm, Sweden. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Consulate General for final review of the case, issuance of a U.S. Hague Adoption Certificate or Hague Custody Certificate, final approval of Form I-800, and to obtain your child’s immigrant visa. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the consular officer must be provided the “Panel Physician’s” medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Read more about the Medical Examination.
For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States: A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States : An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting. Read more about the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Sweden. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about traveling to Sweden, see the Department of State's Sweden Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State. Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Sweden, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy in Sweden
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Tel: (+46) 8 783 5300
Email: stkacsinfo@state.gov
Internet: http://se.usembassy.gov/
The Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority (MIA)
Ministry of Health and Social Affairs
Box 308
101 26 Stockholm
Tel: +46 (8) 54555680
Fax: +46 (8) 650 4110
Email: info@mia.eu
Internet: www.mia.eu
Embassy of Sweden
1501 M. Street N.W., Suite 900
Washington, D.C. 20005-1702
Tel: +1-202-467 2600
Fax: +1-202-467 2699
Email: ambassaden.washington@foreign.ministry.se
Internet: www.swedenabroad.com
Office of Children’s Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov
Internet: adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures:
National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Internet: uscis.gov
For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:
National Benefits Center
Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Extract of the population register (“Personbevis”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with a small round seal with the Swedish Tax Agency´s logo.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registration Officer (“Servicetjänsteman”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, one must call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date and place of birth, the names of both parents, their marital status and their date of marriage, if applicable.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Birth records for persons born before July 1, 1991, can also be obtained both from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”) in the parish of the applicant's birth. This record is only provided in Swedish.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Upon request, this document can be obtained in English.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: ”Dödsfallsintyg” and ”Släktutredning.”
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: N/A
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: When a US citizen dies in Sweden, Skatteverket sends the Dodsfallsintyg automatically to the Embassy, at which time we (ACS) contact Skatteverket in order acquire a Personbevis, which we use to contact the next of kin.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: If the death took place before July 1, 1991, a death certificate (“Utdrag Ur Död-och Begravningsbok”) can be obtained from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”). This record will only be in Swedish.
Exceptions: None
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Extract of the population register (“Personbevis”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with a round seal with the Swedish Tax Agency´s logo.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registration Officer (“Servicetjänsteman”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date/place of birth, marital status, date of marriage and name of spouse. Upon request, it can be obtained in English.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This document should not be confused with the marriage book, “Vigselintyg,” which is not the official marriage certificate.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: “Skilsmässoprotokoll.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with the name (place) of the district court and signature of the Archive Officer.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Archive Officer.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact court via email, phone, in person, or on court website online form.
Certified Copies Available: Yes. Upon request, applicant can request a certified copy of the divorce decree “kopian överensstämmer med originalet.”
Alternate Documents: No. Note that an extract of the population register from the Swedish Tax Agency cannot be used as a divorce decree.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: “Adoptionshandling.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”). If the national adoption took place before 1979, the adoption certificate is obtained from the National Board of Health and Welfare “Socialstyrelsen.”
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Varies from court to court. Some have court seals.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Court Clerk
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: No standardized procedure. Contact individual district court.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Extract of the population register “Personbevis” (see Birth Certificate). All adoptions will be reflected in the Personbevis.
Exceptions: Sweden distinguishes between domestic adoptions, which require authorization from a Swedish court, and adoptions that have taken place abroad, which do not. The latter are split into the following groups:
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: SEK 400
Document Name: “Nationellt id-kort” (national id card).
Issuing Authority: Police.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Secured with microtext, latent image, transparent frames and elements, Optical Variable Ink, laser engraving, UV security features, and embossing.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Security vetted civil servant.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point a photo is taken.
Certified Copies Available: No
Alternate Documents: None that is by definition a valid ID card, but driver’s licenses are generally accepted for all situations except international travel.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Available. A police certificate criminal record abstract (Utdrag ur belastningsregistret - utlandsändamål) is a record taken from the National Police Board and is issued to all persons upon application. Application forms (including forms in English) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage or obtained from the local police station. Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately 2 weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by fax or by e-mail. Fax number: 010-56 35334, E-mail address: brud.rps@polisen.se.
Available
Fees: Free if shorter than 10 pages. 10 pages cost SEK 50 and more than that is SEK 2 per page.
Document Name: “Domstolsprotokoll.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: N/A
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Tingsrätten.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Court records are available from the criminal division of the court where the person was charged.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Deferred adjudication (“Strafföreläggande”) in case of minor offenses.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: 180 SEK
Document Name: ”Registerutdrag,” version ”Utdrag ur belastningsregistret – utlandsändamål” (extract from the register of criminal convictions – for use of foreign powers).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Police Authority (“Polismyndigheten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On ivory A4 paper format. The logo of the Swedish Police (“Polismyndigheten”) is placed on the top left corner.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Signature and Rank (“handläggare”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Application forms (including forms in English 442.4) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage www.polisen.se . Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately two weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by post or by e-mail: utlandsutdrag@polisen.se
Certified Copies Available: No.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: The first section of the extract from the criminal records registry is always provided in five languages: Swedish, English, German, French, and Spanish. Possible convictions are not translated and will appear only in Swedish.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Certificate of fulfilment of military service (”Intyg om totalförsvarsplikt, exempelvis om tjänstgöring eller befrielse från tjänstgöring”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Defense Recruitment Agency (“Rekryteringsmyndigheten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: None.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Program officer for military defense organization.
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: E-mail exp@rekryteringsmyndigheten.se and include one’s personal identification number, name, address and the purpose of the request. Can be obtained in Swedish and English.
Certified Copies Available: No.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.): National, diplomatic, service, emergency, emergency in A4 format, travel document as per the convention of 28 July, 1951, travel document as per the convention of 28 September, 1954, Alien’s passport, emergency alien’s passport.
Fees: Regular: SEK 350, Emergency: SEK 980
Document Name: Pass.
Issuing Government Authority: Police.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: All documents hold the full plethora of security features including, but not limited to UV security, embossing, foiling, microtext, laser perforation, OVI, latent images, intaglio, tactile laser engraving. Colors: National - red, Diplomatic - blue, Service - blue, Emergency - pink, Emergency in A4 format - multi, travel document as per the convention of 28 July, 1951 - brown, travel document as per the convention of 28 September, 1954 - light blue, Alien’s passport - green/gray, emergency alien’s passport – Multicolored A4 paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Security vetted civil servant.
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point the applicant’s photo and fingerprints are taken.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Other Documents Available: None.
The Swedish Parliament passed legislation that provides for changes in Swedish nationality law which took effect July 01, 2001.
The law changed the Swedish position on dual nationality, making it possible for a foreign adult resident in Sweden to naturalize as a Swedish citizen without first giving up his/her prior citizenship. Conversely, Swedish citizens who naturalize in another country will no longer lose their Swedish nationality. Former Swedes may also apply for reinstatement of their list Swedish citizenship between July 01, 2001 and 30 June 2003.
The law also:
A change of name certificate is issued by the National Swedish Patent and Registration Office (Patent-och Registreringsverket) in Stockholm. Copies of the certificate are available. A birth record (Personbevis), indicating change of name and when and where the change took place, issued by the Tax Administration (Skatteverket) - also serves as evidence of name-change.
Post Title: Stockholm, Sweden (Embassy)
Address:
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31
Phone Number: +46 (0)8 783 5300
Visa Services: All categories for all of Sweden.
Comments / Additional Information: Regional Immigrant Visa processing post for residents of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
All categories for all of Sweden.
ambassaden.washington-konsulart@gov.se
Washington, DC (202) 467-2600 (202) 467-2699
New York, NY (212) 888-3000 (212) 888-3125
San Diego, CA (619) 209-6170 (619) 209-6050
San Francisco, CA (415) 788-2631 (415) 788-0141
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
Six months recommended
Two pages required for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sweden for information on U.S.-Sweden relations.
Visit the Embassy of Sweden’s website for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sweden.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Sweden has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past, and the potential for a terrorist incident remains. Like other countries in the Schengen area, Sweden's open borders with its Western European neighbors could permit terrorist groups to enter and exit the country with anonymity. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
Crime: Sweden has a low crime rate. Violent crimes, such as homicides and sexual assaults, do occur in Sweden; however, the majority of violent crimes occur in larger cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo.
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact local police authorities by dialing 112. Crime victims should contact the U.S. Embassy at +(46) (8) 785-5300 after they have contacted local authorities.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested or prosecuted if you break the law.
Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Compulsory Military Service: In March 2017, Sweden reintroduced military conscription for men and women. Enrollment will begin July 1, 2017, and Sweden plans for 4,000 recruits annually in 2018 and 2019. Dual U.S./Swedish citizens are also subject to conscription, though persons who have previously done military service may be excluded from the requirement and should contact the Swedish Ministry of Defense for more information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Sweden. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Accessibility to public facilities and transportation in Sweden is good. The Swedish Government actively funds programs promoting disability access to streets, public buildings, stores, restaurants, and public transportation. For more information on accessibility in Sweden, visit the Tourist Bureau’s website.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Medical care in Sweden is comparable to that found in the United States. Though it is state-sponsored, it only covers the medical costs of Swedish citizens and residents. Non-residents are expected to pay their own medical costs in full.
The Embassy does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Driving is on the right in Sweden, as in the United States.
Traffic Laws: You can use a valid U.S. driver's license while visiting Sweden, but you must be at least 18 years-old to drive.
Public Transportation: Public transport in Sweden is the recommended way to travel.
Refer to our road safety page for more information. We suggest that you visit the website of Sweden’s national tourist office and the Swedish Transport Administration.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Sweden’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to Sweden’s Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. Sweden permits service via postal channels in accordance with Article 10(a) of the Hague Service Convention. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention. See also Sweden’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from Sweden in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. The Central Authority for Sweden for the Hague Evidence Conventiondesignated to receive letters of request for the taking of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on how to prepare a letter of request. Requests under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to the Swedish Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. Requests should be submitted in duplicate with Swedish translations. See the Swedish Declarations and Reservations regarding the Hague Evidence Convention. See also Sweden’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from Sweden to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L Street N.W., Room 8102, Washington, D.C. 2053
Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters are permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness. However, prior permission from the Swedish Foreign Ministry is required. In order to obtain this permission, contact the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. Embassy directly.
Sweden is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Sweden’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Conventionwill authenticate Swedish public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in Sweden, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(46) (8) 783-5300
Fax: +(46) (8) 783-5480
stkacsinfo@state.gov
Sweden and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since June 1, 1989.
For information concerning travel to Sweden, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Sweden.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Sweden. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-736-9132
Website
The Swedish Central Authority (SCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The SCA performs an administrative role in processing Hague applications. The SCA receives and reviews the Hague application package to make sure it is complete. It confirms receipt of the application by a faxed letter to the U.S. Central Authority and, if necessary, requests any additional information or documentation. If the left-behind parent or legal guardian asks the SCA for a negotiated voluntary return, the SCA will contact the taking parent to inform him/her of the application, describe the procedure under the Convention, and ask if he/she wants to reach a voluntary agreement to avoid litigation.
If the location of the taking parent and child is unknown, the SCA will search for the child by any appropriate means, depending on individual case circumstances. In this respect, the SCA may contact other Swedish authorities, such as tax authorities, the Swedish Migration Authority, law enforcement agencies, social welfare agencies and/or schools where the taking parent and child might be located.
The SCA can be reached at:
Department for Consular Affairs and Civil Law
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
SE-103 39
Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone: 011-46-8-405-1000
Telephone: 011-46-8-405-5001
Fax: 011-46-8-723-1176
registrator@foreign.ministry.se
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Sweden, the applicant should submit the Hague application package by courier to: Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20520-2818. The Office of Children's Issues will forward the case to the SCA, which will appoint an attorney to file legal proceedings at the Stockholm District Court, which is the initial court to hold proceedings for Hague cases in Sweden. A professional judge and three lay judges adjudicate Hague cases at this level.
The Stockholm District Court then sets a date for hearing and orders the parties to present any written evidence to the court within a very limited period of time. The court will also request the presence of the taken-parent at the hearing. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the SCA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Swedish central authorities. Additional costs, which are the responsibility of the applicant, may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Sweden. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Sweden. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.
There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.
The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.
There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Sweden is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of the child’s country of origin.
Sweden is not generally considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. There are few children eligible for adoption in Sweden. There is no national adoption waiting list system in Sweden; each municipality is individually responsible for finding homes for any child residing in its respective area. Most intercountry adoptions in Sweden are by legal residents of Sweden who adopt in third countries.
While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Swedish orphan by foreigners is unlikely. A child residing in Sweden could be adopted to another country ONLY in the case that the foreign prospective adoptive parents were either relatives or other persons with pre-existing ties to the child. In either case, the relevant municipality would identify the child eligible for adoption before the prospective adoptive parents would initiate adoption proceedings in the receiving country.
No Swedish orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Sweden in which a Swedish child is adopted by relatives in the United States or by person(s) in the United States with other strong ties to the child, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Sweden.
U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS
To bring an adopted child to the United States from Sweden, you must meet eligibility and suitability requirements. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), determines who can adopt under U.S. immigration law.
Additionally, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee under U.S. law in order to immigrate to the United States on an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.
In addition to the U.S. requirements, Sweden requires prospective adoptive parents to meet the following Swedish requirements in order to adopt a child:
In addition, all such prospective adoptive parents must take part in a parental preparation course assigned by the municipality where they reside. This course must be completed in order for the investigation/home study to be initiated. The cost of the course varies but is approximately 2000 SEK = $250.
If non-residents of Sweden seek adoption of a related child residing in Sweden, the Social Welfare Committee in the area where the child is residing would conduct an investigation to determine if the adoption would be in the best interest of the child. The prospective adoptive parents would be evaluated by the appropriate authorities in their country of residence – in this case the United States.
Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, children from Sweden must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Sweden have determined that placement of the child within Sweden has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests. In addition to Sweden’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.
For specific requirements under Swedish adoption law, please contact Sweden’s Adoption Authority listed under the contact section of this flyer.
WARNING: Sweden is party to the Hague Adoption Convention. Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.
Sweden’s Adoption Authority
Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority (MIA)
Ministry of Health and Social Affairs
Box 308
101 26 Stockholm
Tel: +46 (8) 54555680
Fax: +46 (8) 650 4110
Email: info@mia.eu
Internet: www.mia.eu
Note: Most of the following information refers to the process of adopting from Sweden as country of origin, and would be used only in rare adoption cases from Sweden. Contact the MIA for more information on the process of adopting a child from a third country to Sweden.
Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Sweden must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.
After you choose an accredited or approved adoption service provider, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt by the responsible U.S. government agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), by submitting Form I-800A. Read more about Eligibility Requirements.
Once USCIS determines that you are “eligible” and “suited” to adopt by approving the Form I-800A, your adoption service provider will provide your approval notice, home study, and any other required information to the adoption authority in Sweden as part of your adoption dossier. Sweden’s adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Swedish law.
If both the United States and Sweden determine that you are eligible to adopt, and the municipality in Sweden has determined that a child is available for adoption and that intercountry adoption is in that child’s best interests, the municipal authority in Sweden may provide you with a referral for a child. The referral is a proposed match between you and a specific child based on a review of your dossier and the needs of a specific child in Sweden. The authority in Sweden will provide a background study and other information, if available, about the child to help you decide whether to accept the referral or not. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs and provide a permanent home for a particular child. If you accept the referral, the adoption service provider communicates that to the authority in Sweden. Learn more about this critical decision.
After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval for the child to immigrate to the United States (Form I-800). USCIS will make a provisional determination as to whether the child meets the definition of a Convention Adoptee and will be eligible to enter the United States and reside permanently as an immigrant.
After provisional approval of Form I-800, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, that is responsible for issuing immigrant visas to children from Sweden. A consular officer will review the Form I-800 and the visa application for possible visa ineligibilities and advise you of options for the waiver of any noted ineligibilities.
WARNING: The consular officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5 Letter”) to the Swedish authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Sweden where all Convention requirements are met and the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States. This letter will inform the Swedish authority that the parents are eligible and suited to adopt, that all indications are that the child may enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.
Do not attempt to adopt or obtain custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter in any adoption case.
Remember: The consular officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child from Sweden, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption from Sweden.
The process for finalizing the adoption or gaining legal custody in Sweden generally includes the following:
Note: MIA's role as Central Authority is relevant only to intercountry adoptions to Sweden from a third country of origin. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality of the child's residence in Sweden is the competent authority in the case of adoption of a Swedish child.
ROLE OF THE COURT: The final adoption of a relative child from Sweden to the U.S. will need to take place in a U.S. court. A Swedish court does not have authority to decide on an adoption from Sweden. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality where the child resides will determine if the child should be adopted or not.
For adoption cases in which the parents reside in Sweden, the adoption decree is issued by the local District Court (Tingsrätt, www.dom.se). Decrees are not available in English. At this point the legal relationship between adoptive parents and adopted child is equal to the relationship between biological parents and children. An adoption in Sweden is not reversible.
When the adoptive parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Swedish population registry, maintained by the Swedish Tax Agency, of the adoption and you may order a new birth certificate from them: www.skatteverket.se. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.
ROLE OF ADOPTION AGENCIES: A list of Swedish adoption agencies authorized to provide adoption services in third countries is available at www.mia.eu .
ADOPTION APPLICATION: For prospective adoptive parents residing in Sweden, the Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority web site www.mia.eu has detailed information about Swedish adoption law, policy and procedures. Information is provided in both Swedish and English .
ADOPTION FEES: In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.
Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting to Sweden from a third country include:
Prospective adoptive parents can expect to pay from approximately 80 000 – 200 000 SEK, approximately US $10,000 to $23,000 for adoption services, including the cost for the trip to pick up the child and return to Sweden. There are no government fees. Most parents can qualify for a Swedish government grant of approximately SEK 40 000, approximately US $5,000, when they return with the child to Sweden.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: A list of documents needed to apply for adoption as a Swedish resident/citizen can be found at www.mia.eu .
Note: Additional documents may be requested.
AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS: The United States and Sweden are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. U.S. public documents may be authenticated with Apostilles by the appropriate U.S. Competent Authority
Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents before your child can travel to the United States:
Birth Certificate
When adopting a relative child from Sweden: Since the adoption will be finalized in the United States, you cannot obtain a new birth certificate in Sweden. You will receive documentation from the Social Welfare Committee giving consent to the adoption of the child, and based on that the child will be allowed to leave Sweden for final adoption in the U.S.
When residing in Sweden and adopting a child from Sweden or from a third country: Swedish birth certificates, so-called Personbevis, are issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket, www.skatteverket.se). When the parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Tax Agency when the adoption is final to update the child's information. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.
Swedish Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Sweden.
Swedish passports are issued by the Swedish police. Applications are submitted at your local police station. For application procedures, please see the Swedish police website www.polisen.se.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to finalize your application for a U.S. visa for your child from the U.S. Consulate General in Stockholm, Sweden. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Consulate General for final review of the case, issuance of a U.S. Hague Adoption Certificate or Hague Custody Certificate, final approval of Form I-800, and to obtain your child’s immigrant visa. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the consular officer must be provided the “Panel Physician’s” medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Read more about the Medical Examination.
For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States: A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
For adoptions to be finalized in the United States : An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting. Read more about the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Sweden. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about traveling to Sweden, see the Department of State's Sweden Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State. Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Sweden, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy in Sweden
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31,
SE-115 89 Stockholm, Sweden
Tel: (+46) 8 783 5300
Email: stkacsinfo@state.gov
Internet: http://se.usembassy.gov/
The Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority (MIA)
Ministry of Health and Social Affairs
Box 308
101 26 Stockholm
Tel: +46 (8) 54555680
Fax: +46 (8) 650 4110
Email: info@mia.eu
Internet: www.mia.eu
Embassy of Sweden
1501 M. Street N.W., Suite 900
Washington, D.C. 20005-1702
Tel: +1-202-467 2600
Fax: +1-202-467 2699
Email: ambassaden.washington@foreign.ministry.se
Internet: www.swedenabroad.com
Office of Children’s Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov
Internet: adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures:
National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Internet: uscis.gov
For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:
National Benefits Center
Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Extract of the population register (“Personbevis”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with a small round seal with the Swedish Tax Agency´s logo.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registration Officer (“Servicetjänsteman”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, one must call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date and place of birth, the names of both parents, their marital status and their date of marriage, if applicable.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Birth records for persons born before July 1, 1991, can also be obtained both from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”) in the parish of the applicant's birth. This record is only provided in Swedish.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Upon request, this document can be obtained in English.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: ”Dödsfallsintyg” and ”Släktutredning.”
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: N/A
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: When a US citizen dies in Sweden, Skatteverket sends the Dodsfallsintyg automatically to the Embassy, at which time we (ACS) contact Skatteverket in order acquire a Personbevis, which we use to contact the next of kin.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: If the death took place before July 1, 1991, a death certificate (“Utdrag Ur Död-och Begravningsbok”) can be obtained from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”). This record will only be in Swedish.
Exceptions: None
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Extract of the population register (“Personbevis”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with a round seal with the Swedish Tax Agency´s logo.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registration Officer (“Servicetjänsteman”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date/place of birth, marital status, date of marriage and name of spouse. Upon request, it can be obtained in English.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This document should not be confused with the marriage book, “Vigselintyg,” which is not the official marriage certificate.
Tel: 0771–567 567 or from abroad: + 46 8 564 851 60
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: “Skilsmässoprotokoll.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with the name (place) of the district court and signature of the Archive Officer.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Archive Officer.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact court via email, phone, in person, or on court website online form.
Certified Copies Available: Yes. Upon request, applicant can request a certified copy of the divorce decree “kopian överensstämmer med originalet.”
Alternate Documents: No. Note that an extract of the population register from the Swedish Tax Agency cannot be used as a divorce decree.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: “Adoptionshandling.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”). If the national adoption took place before 1979, the adoption certificate is obtained from the National Board of Health and Welfare “Socialstyrelsen.”
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Varies from court to court. Some have court seals.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Court Clerk
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: No standardized procedure. Contact individual district court.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Extract of the population register “Personbevis” (see Birth Certificate). All adoptions will be reflected in the Personbevis.
Exceptions: Sweden distinguishes between domestic adoptions, which require authorization from a Swedish court, and adoptions that have taken place abroad, which do not. The latter are split into the following groups:
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: SEK 400
Document Name: “Nationellt id-kort” (national id card).
Issuing Authority: Police.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Secured with microtext, latent image, transparent frames and elements, Optical Variable Ink, laser engraving, UV security features, and embossing.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Security vetted civil servant.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point a photo is taken.
Certified Copies Available: No
Alternate Documents: None that is by definition a valid ID card, but driver’s licenses are generally accepted for all situations except international travel.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Available. A police certificate criminal record abstract (Utdrag ur belastningsregistret - utlandsändamål) is a record taken from the National Police Board and is issued to all persons upon application. Application forms (including forms in English) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage or obtained from the local police station. Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately 2 weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by fax or by e-mail. Fax number: 010-56 35334, E-mail address: brud.rps@polisen.se.
Available
Fees: Free if shorter than 10 pages. 10 pages cost SEK 50 and more than that is SEK 2 per page.
Document Name: “Domstolsprotokoll.”
Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: N/A
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Tingsrätten.
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Court records are available from the criminal division of the court where the person was charged.
Certified Copies Available: Yes.
Alternate Documents: Deferred adjudication (“Strafföreläggande”) in case of minor offenses.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.
Available
Fees: 180 SEK
Document Name: ”Registerutdrag,” version ”Utdrag ur belastningsregistret – utlandsändamål” (extract from the register of criminal convictions – for use of foreign powers).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Police Authority (“Polismyndigheten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On ivory A4 paper format. The logo of the Swedish Police (“Polismyndigheten”) is placed on the top left corner.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Signature and Rank (“handläggare”).
Registration Criteria: None.
Procedure for Obtaining: Application forms (including forms in English 442.4) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage www.polisen.se . Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately two weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by post or by e-mail: utlandsutdrag@polisen.se
Certified Copies Available: No.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: The first section of the extract from the criminal records registry is always provided in five languages: Swedish, English, German, French, and Spanish. Possible convictions are not translated and will appear only in Swedish.
Available
Fees: None.
Document Name: Certificate of fulfilment of military service (”Intyg om totalförsvarsplikt, exempelvis om tjänstgöring eller befrielse från tjänstgöring”).
Issuing Authority: Swedish Defense Recruitment Agency (“Rekryteringsmyndigheten”).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: None.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Program officer for military defense organization.
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: E-mail exp@rekryteringsmyndigheten.se and include one’s personal identification number, name, address and the purpose of the request. Can be obtained in Swedish and English.
Certified Copies Available: No.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.): National, diplomatic, service, emergency, emergency in A4 format, travel document as per the convention of 28 July, 1951, travel document as per the convention of 28 September, 1954, Alien’s passport, emergency alien’s passport.
Fees: Regular: SEK 350, Emergency: SEK 980
Document Name: Pass.
Issuing Government Authority: Police.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: All documents hold the full plethora of security features including, but not limited to UV security, embossing, foiling, microtext, laser perforation, OVI, latent images, intaglio, tactile laser engraving. Colors: National - red, Diplomatic - blue, Service - blue, Emergency - pink, Emergency in A4 format - multi, travel document as per the convention of 28 July, 1951 - brown, travel document as per the convention of 28 September, 1954 - light blue, Alien’s passport - green/gray, emergency alien’s passport – Multicolored A4 paper.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Security vetted civil servant.
Registration Criteria: N/A
Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point the applicant’s photo and fingerprints are taken.
Alternate Documents: None.
Exceptions: None.
Comments: None.
Other Documents Available: None.
The Swedish Parliament passed legislation that provides for changes in Swedish nationality law which took effect July 01, 2001.
The law changed the Swedish position on dual nationality, making it possible for a foreign adult resident in Sweden to naturalize as a Swedish citizen without first giving up his/her prior citizenship. Conversely, Swedish citizens who naturalize in another country will no longer lose their Swedish nationality. Former Swedes may also apply for reinstatement of their list Swedish citizenship between July 01, 2001 and 30 June 2003.
The law also:
A change of name certificate is issued by the National Swedish Patent and Registration Office (Patent-och Registreringsverket) in Stockholm. Copies of the certificate are available. A birth record (Personbevis), indicating change of name and when and where the change took place, issued by the Tax Administration (Skatteverket) - also serves as evidence of name-change.
Post Title: Stockholm, Sweden (Embassy)
Address:
Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 31
Phone Number: +46 (0)8 783 5300
Visa Services: All categories for all of Sweden.
Comments / Additional Information: Regional Immigrant Visa processing post for residents of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
All categories for all of Sweden.
ambassaden.washington-konsulart@gov.se
Washington, DC (202) 467-2600 (202) 467-2699
New York, NY (212) 888-3000 (212) 888-3125
San Diego, CA (619) 209-6170 (619) 209-6050
San Francisco, CA (415) 788-2631 (415) 788-0141
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.
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