Ranked third in the global passport index by VisaGuide as of July 2023, the Swedish passport offers its bearers exceptional mobility privileges. In the global context, Swedish citizens enjoy visa-free access to a stunning 162 countries. However, a prerequisite visa application is necessary for travel to the remaining nations.

Visa-Free Countries for Swedish Passport Holders

A Swedish passport holder enjoys the freedom of traveling without a visa to 162 countries and territories, as listed below as of July 2023, 

The passport must remain valid, typically for six months beyond the planned departure date, for these visa-free travels. Some countries also necessitate the procurement of travel health insurance.

Travel Without a Passport for Swedish Citizens

Swedish citizens can enter the following territories using just an identification card,Albania ,Andorra, Aruba ,Austria ,Belgium ,Caribbean Netherlands ,Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria ,Croatia, Curaçao ,Cyprus, Czechia ,Denmark ,Estonia ,Faroe Islands ,Fiji Finland ,French Guiana ,French Polynesia ,French West Indies ,Georgia ,Germany ,Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland ,Hungary ,Iceland ,Ireland, Italy ,Jordan, Kosovo, Latvia ,Liechtenstein ,Lithuania ,Luxembourg ,Malta ,Mayotte ,Moldova, Monaco ,Montenegro, Montserrat ,Netherlands ,New Caledonia ,North Macedonia ,Norway ,Réunion ,Romania, San Marino ,Serbia ,Slovakia ,Slovenia ,Spain ,Saint Martin ,Switzerland ,Turks and Caicos Islands ,Vatican City.

Countries Offering eVisa to Swedish Citizens

An eVisa provides an efficient and hassle-free method for Swedish passport holders to gain entry into the following 10 countries:

The eVisa application process largely mirrors that of a traditional visa, barring the need to visit a visa application center. This streamlined digital approach involves completing the application online, including the visa fee payment. Upon approval, applicants receive a digital confirmation and a document for printing. It's crucial to carry this physical copy while traveling as some officials may request it despite the visa's online registration.

Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Swedish Citizens

Swedish passport holders can secure a visa-on-arrival in these 27 countries ,Bahrain ,Bangladesh ,Burkina Faso ,Burundi ,Cambodia ,Comoros ,Egypt ,Guinea-Bissau ,Iran Kuwait ,Laos, Lebanon ,Madagascar ,Malawi ,Maldives ,Mauritania ,Nepal ,Papua New Guinea ,Rwanda ,Saudi Arabia, Seychelles ,Sierra Leone ,Somalia ,Saint Helena ,Tanzania Togo, Zimbabwe.

Upon reaching the respective country, travelers must submit their application at a designated section, typically found at the airport, to obtain their visa-on-arrival.

Countries Requiring a Visa for Swedish Citizens

The following 27 countries mandate a visa for entry by Swedish passport holders:

Visa Application Process for Swedish Citizens

The visa application process typically involves the following steps:

• Schedule an appointment at the local visa center in Sweden.
• Prepare the necessary documents.
• Submit the completed application and attend the mandatory visa interview.

Please note that a valid multi-entry visa eliminates the need to apply for a new visa.

Required Documents for Visa Application by Swedish Citizens

To apply for e-Visa, Swedish citizens typically need to submit the following documents required for Swedish citizens:

• A valid Swedish passport (with a photocopy).
• A completed visa application form.
• Recent passport photos (not older than six months).
• Comprehensive travel health insurance for the entire duration of the stay.
• Proof of paid visa fee.
• A detailed travel itinerary.
• A letter of invitation (if applicable).
• Confirmation of booked return flight.
• Proof of accommodation booking.
• Evidence of adequate funds for the visit.
• Relevant civil status documents.

Note: A prior criminal record could lead to the rejection of the visa application.

Dual Citizenship for Swedes

In Sweden, dual citizenship or nationality is permitted. This means that if you're a Swedish citizen, you can become a citizen of another country without losing your Swedish citizenship, and vice versa.

Healthcare for Swedish Citizens Abroad

Swedish citizens traveling abroad should be aware of the healthcare services available in their destination countries. It's crucial to have comprehensive travel health insurance, especially for countries where healthcare can be costly. In some European Union countries, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides Swedish citizens with access to necessary healthcare under the same conditions as nationals of that country.

Work and Study Opportunities for Swedish Citizens

Many countries offer work and study opportunities for Swedish citizens. For instance, through various work-holiday and student-exchange programs, Swedish citizens can experience life, work, or study in a different country. Countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand have specific programs or visas for this purpose.

Voting Rights for Swedish Citizens Living Abroad

Swedish citizens living abroad retain their right to vote in Swedish general elections, provided they have been registered in the Swedish population register within the last ten years. They can vote by post or at a Swedish embassy or consulate.

Consular Assistance for Swedish Citizens Abroad

Swedish embassies and consulates worldwide provide assistance to Swedish citizens during emergencies, such as illness, death, crime, or arrest. They can help with replacement of lost or stolen passports and offer advice and help in situations involving crime or serious illness.

Benefits of the Schengen Agreement for Swedish Citizens

As a member of the Schengen Area, Sweden allows its citizens to travel freely among the 26 European countries in the zone without undergoing border checks. This means Swedish citizens can live, work, or study in any of these countries without requiring a visa.

Swedish Citizenship by Descent or Marriage

Individuals with a Swedish parent or who marry a Swedish citizen may be eligible to apply for Swedish citizenship. The specific criteria and processes depend on various factors, such as the individual's current nationality, residence history, and the nature and duration of the relationship with the Swedish citizen.

Remember to check the latest information, as these topics are subject to change depending on various factors including changes in international agreements and national laws.

FAQ

How many countries can Swedish passport holders travel to without a visa?

As of July 2023, Swedish passport holders can travel to 162 countries without the need for a visa.

Which countries can Swedish citizens enter with just an ID card?

Swedish citizens can enter several countries, mostly in the European Union, with just an ID card. The full list can be found above.

What is an eVisa and which countries issue them to Swedish citizens?

An eVisa is a visa obtained online, without the need for a physical application at a consulate or embassy. A number of countries offer eVisas to Swedish citizens, including Angola, Azerbaijan, Benin, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Guinea, India, Kenya, Myanmar, and Uganda.

What countries issue a visa on arrival to Swedish citizens?

Several countries provide a visa on arrival to Swedish passport holders. These include countries like Bahrain, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, and others.

Which countries require Swedish citizens to have a visa before entry?

Some countries require Swedish passport holders to apply for a visa before entry. These countries include Afghanistan, Algeria, Bhutan, Cameroon, Central African Republic, and others.

What is the process for a Swedish citizen to apply for a visa?

The visa application process typically involves scheduling an appointment at a local visa center in Sweden, preparing necessary documents, and submitting the completed application with an interview.

What documents do Swedish citizens need to apply for a visa?

Swedish citizens need to provide a valid passport, completed visa application form, recent passport photos, travel health insurance, proof of paid visa fee, detailed travel itinerary, and other documents depending on the destination country's requirements.

Can Swedish citizens hold dual citizenship?

Yes, Sweden permits dual citizenship, allowing Swedish citizens to hold another country's citizenship without losing their Swedish citizenship.

Do Swedish citizens living abroad have voting rights in Swedish general elections?

Yes, Swedish citizens living abroad can vote in Swedish general elections provided they have been registered in the Swedish population register within the last ten years.

What assistance can Swedish citizens get from Swedish embassies and consulates abroad?

Swedish embassies and consulates can provide assistance in emergencies, such as illness, death, crime, or arrest. They can also assist with the replacement of lost or stolen passports.