Sweden: Authorities to restrict entry to UK nationals from Jan. 1 /update 8

Sweden tightens COVID-19 entry restrictions for UK nationals from Jan. 1, 2021; domestic social-distancing measures to increase.

Event

Authorities have announced that from Jan. 1, 2021 most UK nationals based in the UK will be prohibited from entry; the move will reflect the end of the Brexit transition period, after which the UK will no longer be classed as an EU/Schengen associated state.

Sweden is maintaining international entry restrictions to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Dec. 19. All nonessential travel from outside the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK (until Jan. 1, 2021) is banned. In line with EU recommendations, authorities are permitting travelers from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, and Uruguay 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 EU and EEA.

Sweden is also tightening domestic COVID-19 measures as a result of rising case numbers. Authorities announced Dec. 18 that facemasks are now recommended on public transport during rush hour. In addition, the maximum number of people per table at a bar or restaurant will be reduced from eight to four and the sale of alcohol will be prohibited from 2000.

Other measures remain in force. Individuals are not permitted to travel within Sweden if they are displaying symptoms of COVID-19. Those with symptoms must self-isolate for at least seven days from the date they first appeared. Persons should have no fever for at least two full days before ending self-isolation. Travel providers have implemented strict hygiene and social-distancing measures on their services. Shops, catering establishments, and cultural sites are open, though they must limit the number of customers and comply with social-distancing guidelines.

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

Postpone travel if affected by travel restrictions. Confirm flight status before checking out of accommodation and departing for the airport. 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.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.