The Covid-19 test requirement is scrapped because Omicron dominates
From 21 January, Sweden will no longer require travelers to present a negative Covid-19 test result in order to enter the border. However, most travelers now have to present a digital certificate proving full vaccination, while travel from some countries is still prohibited.
The news will certainly be met with joy in the border countries Norway and Finland, as cross-border trade has more or less stalled in recent weeks.
Omicron now dominates in Sweden
The requirement for a negative test result was introduced less than four weeks ago was intended to slow down the spread of the Omicron variant. But after weeks of increasing infections, Omicron now dominates in Sweden.
The Swedish Public Health Agency no longer considers travelers to be a major risk for the spread of Omicron and recommended it removal of the test requirement because it was no longer a proportionate measure, according to a government statement.
Instead, Sweden has chosen to strike within its borders and introduced a number of national restrictions. From 14 January, all licensed premises must close no later than 23.00, with seated service only for small groups. There are additional restrictions for public gatherings and events.
To date, a total of 15,558 people have died from Covid-19 in Sweden. There are 110 patients in intensive care, 12 more than a week ago.
Sweden entry rules from 21 January
Although the test requirement has been removed, many other entry rules remain. The rules have mainly returned to those that applied before 28 December, when the test requirement was introduced.
From 21 January, all adults who do not have citizenship or residence in Sweden will need to show proof of full vaccination (two doses), recovery from an infection within the last six months or a negative test result taken during the last 72 hours. This must be done via the EU Digital Covid Certificate or one of the compatible systems.
Sweden’s entry ban on unnecessary travel outside the EU / EEA remains. This means that people traveling outside Europe must meet one of them exception to the ban on access.
The exceptions include urgent family reasons and travelers from an approved country list, which is updated regularly. Please note that most people who have an exemption from the ban still have to present a digital vaccination certificate.