Sweden: Entry restrictions for travelers from Denmark and Norway to be eased as of March 31; other travel restrictions extended until May 31 /update 16

Event

Authorities in Sweden have extended most of the nation's COVID-19-related travel restrictions until May 31, though they plan to ease those imposed on certain travelers. Effective March 31, the government will lift the ban on travel from Norway, Denmark, and the UK. Under the new regulation, travelers from Denmark and Norway will be allowed to enter Sweden for any reason; they must, however, produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no later than 48 hours prior to arrival when entering the country. Sweden will allow also certain travelers, including Swedish citizens and residents, spouses and partners of Swedish citizens, citizens or residents of EU or European Economic Area (EEA) countries, and highly qualified workers, to enter from the UK.

All nonessential travel from outside the EEA and Switzerland will remain prohibited until May 31. Exceptions to the ban include students, healthcare workers, cross-border workers, diplomats, freight workers, passengers in transit, and persons traveling on urgent family business. In line with EU recommendations, authorities also permit travelers from Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand to enter. The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against all nonessential travel to countries outside the EEA and Switzerland.

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.

Domestic restrictions
Authorities are also maintaining certain domestic restrictions as of March 24. The following measures apply:

• Bars and restaurants close by 20:30 daily, except for carryout services.

• Amateur sporting events are suspended.

• Shops, catering establishments, and many nonessential businesses are open, subject to strict hygiene and social distancing guidelines.

• Public gatherings and events of more than eight people are banned; 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 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)