Sweden: Authorities to tighten domestic COVID-19 restrictions from March 1 /update 15

Event

Authorities are planning to tighten restrictions from March 1 as part of their response to increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases. The following measures will apply:

• Bars and restaurants will close by 2030 daily, except for takeaway services.

• Social distancing requirements in shops and other public places will become more stringent, with lower ceilings on customer numbers.

• Amateur sporting fixtures will be suspended.

As of Feb. 26, shops, catering establishments, and many nonessential businesses are open, subject to strict hygiene and social distancing guidelines. Officials allow a maximum of four people per table at bars or restaurants, though they prohibit alcohol sales from 2000. Authorities have banned public gatherings and events of more than eight people; funerals can occur with up to 20 attendees. Authorities continue to recommend the use of facemasks on public transport during rush hour. Travel providers have also implemented strict hygiene and social distancing measures on their services.

Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions until at least March 31. All non-Swedish incoming travelers above the age of 18 must present evidence of having tested negative for COVID-19 no more than 48 hours prior to arrival; polymerase chain reaction (PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and antigen tests are accepted.

In addition, all nonessential travel from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland is prohibited through at least March 31. In line with EU recommendations, authorities permit travelers from Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand to enter. Exceptions to the ban include students, healthcare workers, cross-border workers, diplomats, freight workers, passengers in transit, and persons traveling on urgent family business. The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against all nonessential travel to countries outside the EEA and Switzerland. Travelers from Denmark, Norway, and the UK are currently prohibited until March 31 to limit the spread of COVID-19 variants identified in these locations; exceptions will apply for Swedish nationals, transport workers, travel for urgent family reasons, and individuals who live or work in Sweden.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Emergency Information from Swedish Authorities
Public Health Agency of Sweden
World Health Organization (WHO)