Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Sweden is a very safe, prosperous Nordic EU country. Watch for pickpockets in central Stockholm tourist areas.
- Overall risk
- Very low; among the safest countries in the world
- Main concern
- Petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded tourist spots
- Emergency number
- 112 (all services)
- Sweden enjoys low crime rates, strong rule of law and reliable public services. Exercise normal precautions and stay alert in busy areas of Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
There are no no-go areas for tourists. Use normal caution in a few outer city districts at night.
- No-go areas
- None for typical travellers
- At night
- Some outer suburbs of larger cities warrant extra care
- Occasional gang-related incidents occur in certain suburban areas but rarely affect visitors. Stick to well-lit central and tourist districts, especially after dark.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Natural disaster risk is low. Prepare for extreme winter cold and ice in the north, short winter daylight, and forest fire risk in dry summers.
- Winter
- Severe cold, ice and very short daylight in the far north
- Summer
- Forest and wildfire risk during dry spells
- Seismic risk
- Negligible
- In the north (Abisko/Lapland) winters are harsh and days are very short; dress for extreme cold. In dry summers, follow local fire bans and warnings.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
Sweden has excellent healthcare. Tap water is safe and of high quality across the country.
- Healthcare
- High-quality public and private care
- Tap water
- Safe and excellent to drink
- Emergency
- 112 for ambulance
- Medical facilities are modern and widely available. No special vaccinations are required for typical travel; carry any personal medication with a prescription.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas of Stockholm and Gothenburg and at popular tourist spots. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
- Main risk
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowds
- Hotspots
- Public transport, stations, markets, tourist sites
- Advice
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- Thieves target distracted tourists in busy places. Keep bags closed and in front of you, and be wary of staged distractions.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Sweden is a stable parliamentary democracy with a high standard of governance and civil order.
- Government
- Stable constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy
- Demonstrations
- Peaceful and rare disruption to tourists
- Political unrest is very uncommon. Occasional demonstrations are generally peaceful; avoid large gatherings as a routine precaution.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
EU norms apply. Alcohol above 3.5% is sold only via state Systembolaget shops with limited hours, and drink-driving limits are strict.
- Alcohol
- Sold via Systembolaget; limited opening hours, closed Sundays
- Drink-driving
- Very low legal limit, strictly enforced
- ID
- Carry photo ID; police may ask
- Buying stronger alcohol requires the state monopoly Systembolaget and you must be 20; bars serve from 18. Penalties for drug and drink-driving offences are severe.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
Dial 112 for all emergencies: police, ambulance and fire. Operators speak English.
- All emergencies
- 112
- Non-emergency police
- 114 14
- Medical advice
- 1177 (healthcare information)
- 112 covers police, ambulance and fire nationwide. For non-urgent police matters call 114 14, and 1177 for health guidance.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Europeans can use an EHIC/GHIC where valid; all other travellers should carry comprehensive travel insurance.
- EU/EEA/UK
- EHIC or GHIC covers necessary state care
- Others
- Comprehensive insurance with medical cover
- Include
- Winter sports and repatriation cover if relevant
- An EHIC/GHIC is not a substitute for full travel insurance. Ensure your policy covers medical treatment, repatriation and any winter activities.