Customs regulations in Sweden: What can I bring with me?

Sweden is part of the European Union (EU), which simplifies the import rules for travellers from EU countries. Nevertheless, there are certain guidelines, especially for alcohol, tobacco and other goods. Here you can find out what you can bring with you without hesitation and what quantity regulations apply.

1. Alcohol

In Sweden, the state has a monopoly on the sale of alcohol. High-proof drinks (over 3.5 % alcohol) can only be bought in state-run shops, the so-called Systembolaget. As a result, many tourists bring alcohol from their home country. Here are the guidelines:

• The alcohol must be intended for personal use.
• You must be at least 20 years old.
• There are no fixed maximum quantities, but there are guideline values that differentiate between personal and commercial use. These are as follows:
  • Spirits (over 22 %): max. 10 litres
  • Strong wine (15 % to 22 %): max. 20 litres
  • Wine (3.5 % to 15 %): max. 90 litres
  • Beer (over 3.5 %): max. 110 litres

These guidelines only apply to travellers from EU countries. There are stricter rules when travelling from non-EU countries.

2. Tobacco

There are also clear regulations for tobacco products in Sweden. While there are hardly any price differences compared to Germany, it is important to keep an eye on the quantities you bring with you. The following guidelines apply to imports from an EU country:

• The tobacco products must be intended for personal use.
• You must be at least 18 years old.
• Guide values for personal use:
  • 800 cigarettes
  • 400 cigarillos
  • 100 cigars
  • 1 kilogram of tobacco

An important note: Stricter restrictions apply to travellers from non-EU countries.

3. Food

Travellers from the EU are generally allowed to bring unlimited amounts of food with them to Sweden. This is particularly practical for self-catering travellers on holiday in a holiday home. However, the situation is different for non-EU citizens: Here, foodstuffs worth a maximum of SEK 4,300 may be imported. Animal products such as meat and milk are checked by a veterinarian at the border crossing.

4. Medication

A small first-aid kit can be carried without any problems. However, you should carry a doctor's certificate confirming the necessity of special medication (e.g. strong painkillers or insulin). This rule applies in particular to medicines that fall under the Narcotics Act.

5. Pets

If you want to take your dog or cat with you to Sweden, there are a few points to bear in mind:

• Your pet needs an ID tag (microchip).
• A valid rabies vaccination is required.
• Your pet must enter the country at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination.
• An EU pet passport is mandatory.
• The pet must be declared to customs.

6. Cash

Although Sweden is becoming increasingly cashless, it is permitted to carry cash. However, please note that amounts over 10,000 euros must be declared to customs.