Petty crime
Petty crime like pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Thieves work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.
Thieves are especially active in crowded areas, such as:
- airports, train stations and public transportation facilities
- hotel lobbies
- restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
- tourist attractions
Always keep your belongings in a safe place, including your passport CANADA VISA FOR SWEDISH CITIZENS and other travel documents.
Violent crime
Gang and organized crime-related violence occurs mainly in the three largest cities in Sweden:
- Stockholm
- Gothenburg
- Malmö
Stockholm County has experienced an increase in gun violence and homicides linked to gang rivalries. Recent incidents suggest retaliatory killings. In certain situations, criminals have used bombs, hand grenades or improvised explosive devices. Violent incidents have occurred in public areas, including bars and restaurants.
While violent incidents have not typically occurred in areas frequented by tourists, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
- Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings
- Do not touch or move suspicious items or unattended packages
Terrorism
There is an increased likelihood of terrorist attacks in Sweden. The Swedish Security Service notes an increased number of attack threats in the intelligence it processes. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools CANADA VISA FOR BRITISH CITIZENS
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:
- sporting events
- religious holidays
- other public celebrations
Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.
The Government of Sweden maintains a public alert system on terrorism. The Government communicates threat level changes online and through local media.
Useful links
- Local terrorism threat level – Swedish Police Authority
- Terrorist attacks – Swedish Crisis Information
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events
Adventure and Arctic tourism
If you undertake adventure tourism or trekking, especially in the Arctic provinces and remote areas of Sweden:
- never do so alone
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- do not venture off marked trails
- ensure that you’re properly equipped
- ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
- obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are excellent. Some roads may be closed in winter, particularly in northern areas.
Wildlife road accidents are common. Be particularly vigilant if driving at nighttime.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
- Entry and exit requirements
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Swedish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Schengen area
Sweden is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.
If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel
Temporary border controls
The Swedish government has reintroduced internal border controls at all ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering Sweden, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.
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