Sweden Country Report
Sweden is an industrialized country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe. Sweden is bordered by Norway to the west and Finland to the northeast. Its southern end is connected to Denmark by the Ålesund Bridge. Most of Sweden’s residents live above the Arctic Circle with little arable land in the densely populated southern regions. Sweden’s economy developed rapidly in the mid-20th century due to advances in the automotive, telecommunications, and pharmaceutical industries. The head of the Swedish royal family, the constitutional monarch, serves as the ceremonial head of government, while the prime minister heads the multiparty democratic government.
There are no specific threats to immigrants or travelers to Sweden, and even minor thefts are relatively rare. Civil uprisings are also rare and mostly non-violent. Like many Scandinavian countries, Sweden has an excellent infrastructure network, low levels of corruption, few restrictions on foreign investment, and a highly educated workforce. Recent increases in violent crime and low-altitude IED bombings have been attributed to both organized crime gangs and worsening socioeconomic conditions.
Sweden is a member of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA), and the Schengen area.
Last updated: March 2, 2023
Security
Sweden is generally considered a low-risk travel destination. Occasional petty theft in crowded areas of the city center or near tourist attractions is one of the major concerns of Swedish travelers. Violent crime is rare. However, criminal gangs and gang-related violence are on the rise in southern cities, posing a secondary security threat. There is concern that armed groups linked to extremist groups such as al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS) may carry out attacks in Sweden. Recent increases in violent crime and low-level improvised explosive devices (IED) bombings are believed to be due to both the rise of organized crime groups and worsening socioeconomic conditions. Anti-immigrant sentiment is on the rise and could lead to far-right riots and terrorist attacks.
Last updated: August 23, 2023
Infrastructure
There are no special concerns about aviation safety in Sweden.
Transportation infrastructure is highly developed, and the country is connected by an extensive and well-maintained road system and safe and efficient public transportation.
The ports are efficient.
Water and electricity are good. Good communication infrastructure
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks as the country has a well-developed telecommunication infrastructure.
Last updated: December 29, 2022
Environment
Although Sweden does not experience major natural disasters, heavy rains occasionally cause flooding in the southern regions. Ski slopes in the north are at risk of avalanches. The weather in the north can be cold from December to March, which can have a negative effect on the traveler’s health.
Last updated: March 16, 2022
Health and Medical
Healthcare in Sweden is on par with Western Europe and the United States. Sweden’s health care system is a government system and travelers have access to local health centers and clinics.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Sweden is a multi-party parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. The prime minister is the head of state, but the king primarily plays a ceremonial role as head of state. The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers both exercise executive power, while legislative power rests with the Riksdag (Parliament). The judiciary is independent from the executive and legislative branches. Presidential and parliamentary elections are held at least once every four years.
Government formation usually requires a coalition of different political parties. Governments rarely fall. Government agencies are competent and effective and provide reliable services throughout the country.
Last updated: September 5, 2023
