Sweden Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reissued after periodic review without changes Exercise increased caution in Sweden due to  terrorism . Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sweden. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. R...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Sweden safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Swedish hospitals maintain excellent standards of care with modern facilities. Vårdcentralen (health centers) handle non-emergency cases and are available in all towns.

Insurance: Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended for non-EU visitors, as hospital stays and specialist care can be expensive without coverage.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Sweden follows strict EU/EEA medication import rules. Travelers from outside the EEA may bring up to 3 months' personal supply with a valid prescription or doctor's certificate. Narcotics and psychotropic substances require a Schengen medical certificate. Carry all medications in original labeled packaging. Swedish pharmacies (Apotek) are well-stocked but prescriptions from non-EU countries are not accepted for refills — bring enough supply for your trip.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Schedule IV narcotics under Swedish law. Travelers from EEA may carry up to 5 days' supply with Schengen certificate; non-EEA travelers need doctor's letter and max 5 days' supply. Prescription mandatory.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines are Schedule II narcotics in Sweden. Adderall is NOT approved or available. Importing amphetamine-based medications requires advance permit from Läkemedelsverket (Medical Products Agency). Extremely strict enforcement.
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Cannabis is illegal for all purposes. CBD products containing any detectable THC are prohibited. Even CBD oils marketed as THC-free have led to seizures. Zero-tolerance policy.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Schedule II narcotic. Available by prescription in Sweden. Travelers may bring personal supply (max 5 days from non-EEA, 30 days from EEA with Schengen certificate). Carry prescription documentation.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine is prescription-only and classified as a narcotic. Strong opioids are Schedule II. Travelers need prescription documentation; EEA travelers need Schengen certificate for narcotics.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not expected — service included in prices. Rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required. 5-10% at restaurants for exceptional service.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Being late (Swedes are very punctual)
• Bragging or showing off (Jantelagen — 'don't think you're special')
• Sitting next to someone on public transport when other seats are available
• Small talk with strangers (less common than in other cultures)
• Wearing shoes indoors