Sweden

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police 
• Dial 112 for ambulance 
• Dial 112 for toll-free domestic violence hotline  

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Sweden has a low crime rate. Most crimes involve the theft of personal property from vehicles, residences, and public areas.  

• Armed violence against the public continues to be a rare occurrence. 
• Violent crimes can occur. Crimes include homicides and sexual assault.  
• Most violent crimes occur in Sweden’s larger cities, such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. Organized crime groups have also committed armed acts against each other. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Sweden. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Sweden: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
• Meet in a popular public place. 
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.  You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys.  We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide information on Sweden’s Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS.  The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally. 
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Sweden seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

• Sweden does not use money-based bail for release. 
• A suspect is either held in custody or released without financial conditions.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Sweden.  
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers

Travelers with or accessibility needs

• The law in Sweden prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities.  
• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication, access to services and ease of movement. 
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. 
• • Contact the U.S. embassy in Sweden to receive a list of providers. They can provide a list of places to rent, repair, or replace parts for aids, equipment, or devices. They can also give a list of service providers. This includes sign language interpreters and personal assistants.  
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Sweden Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. 

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not, the CDC provides information on types of health insurance accepted overseas. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Sweden.  If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Sweden.
• Both public and private hospitals often require payment upfront or proof of good travel insurance before providing non-emergency treatment or admitting a patient.   
• By law, Swedish public hospitals will never deny emergency, life-saving care. In a true emergency, they will treat you first and bill you later for the full, unsubsidized cost of the care.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available throughout Sweden.  It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics and hospitals are modern, highly advanced, and fully equipped with state-of-the-art resources. English is widely and fluently spoken by nearly all medical staff, doctors, and emergency responders throughout the country.

• Non-resident U.S. citizens may be required to cover all costs for non-emergency medical transfers to or between hospitals, as well as the high cost of medical repatriation flights back to the United States.
• While the vast majority of hospital-based care is provided through public, government-run regional health systems, private hospitals and specialist clinics also exist, particularly in major cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery 

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. 

• Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor. 
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Sweden. 
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.  
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Sweden.   
• Although Sweden has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Sweden, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.  
• U.S. citizens do not need a visa for medical treatment in Sweden if the stay is under 90 days.  However, you must apply for a Visitor's Residence Permit if your medical treatment requires you to stay longer than 90 days. Check the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) website for more information. 

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

• Check with the Swedish Medical Products Agency to ensure the medication is legal in Sweden. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Sweden has strict rules for the importation of controlled substances, including strong painkillers, sleeping pills, and certain ADHD medications. Travelers from outside the EU are legally restricted to bringing only a 5-day or 3-week supply, depending on the drug's exact narcotic classification.  
• Avoid carrying quantities exceeding these strict limits. You must carry a valid doctor's certificate. Please review Sweden's rules on medication on the Swedish Medical Products Agency website.  

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Sweden to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Sweden.  For additional information, visit the Government of Sweden website. 

Water quality and food safety 

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Sweden. 
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation 

Road conditions and safety

Swedish main roads are comparable to those in the United States. However, secondary roads may be less heavily traveled.  

• Road signs use standard international symbols and Swedish text. Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transportation only. 
• All vehicles on the road must have their headlights turned on, no matter the time of day.  You must use snow tires between December 1 and March 31. You should be experienced driving on ice and snow if you are going to drive in the winter. 
• You must use seat belts. Children under 4 feet and 5 inches (135 cm) in height must be seated in approved child or booster seats. 
• Gas stations in rural areas can be far apart. Some stations are unattended and require a credit card with a chip to purchase fuel. 
• Slower vehicles should move onto the shoulder to allow faster moving vehicles to pass. 

Traffic laws  

You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license while visiting Sweden, or as a resident in Sweden registered for less than 1 year.

• You must be at least 18 years old to drive.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs, is considered a very serious offense. The maximum legal blood-alcohol level is .02%. This is much lower than in the United States.  
• Swedish police often conduct alcohol tests on roads and highways. Drunk driving rules are strictly enforced. Fines can be severe, including possible jail sentences

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride share apps are frequently used and are safe in Sweden. 

Public and commercial transportation 

Public transportation in Sweden is the recommended way to travel within larger cities.  

• Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities.  
• Most residents use public transport in Stockholm, as parking can be expensive.  
• The bus, train, and subway systems are considered safe.  Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas. 
• Visit the website of Sweden’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Sweden should check the following:  

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather and climate 

Sweden’s climate changes depending on the region.  There are milder conditions in the south and harsher winters in the north.  

Winter storms and heavy snowfall 

• Common between November to March in the northern regions and mountainous areas.  These events can disrupt transportation, cause power outages, and increase the risk of accidents. 
• The peak intensity is during mid-winter between December to February. 

Flooding 

• Flooding can occur during the spring due to rapid snowmelt, or rising water levels in rivers and lakes.
• It can also occur in the summer from July to August due to heavy rainfall. 
• Urban areas with poor drainage systems and low-lying regions are particularly vulnerable.   

Wildfires 

• Long dry spells and heatwaves in recent years have increased the risk of wildfires in forested areas. 
• Wildfires are most likely to occur during summer months between June to August. 

Extreme cold and ice conditions 

• Extreme cold temperatures and icy conditions are common in northern Sweden during winter.  These can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and dangerous travel conditions. 
• This is most likely to occur between December and February, particularly in Arctic regions such as Lapland. 

Coastal storm surges 

• Coastal areas, particularly along the Baltic Sea, can experience storm surges during severe weather events.  These surges can lead to localized flooding and erosion. 
• This is most likely to occur during autumn and winter between October to February. 

Helpful resources: 

• Stay informed about weather conditions through The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) or mobile app.  These resources provide detailed forecasts and alerts. 
• Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Local municipalities often have resources for disaster preparedness and response.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates