United States Visa RequirementsFor Sweden passport holders
Swedish passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Sweden passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Sweden to United States: What You Need to Know
Sweden has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Sweden joined NATO in 2024, deepening a transatlantic security relationship that had long been strong through partnerships and intelligence cooperation. The Swedish-American diaspora is historically significant: an estimated 4 million Americans claim Swedish ancestry, with strong cultural presences in Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is Sweden's primary international hub with frequent transatlantic service. Swedish nationals holding a non-VWP second passport must use their Swedish passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) flies nonstop from Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and Washington (IAD). United also operates ARN routes. Norwegian Air has offered budget transatlantic service from Sweden.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is a social obligation in the US and very different from Sweden: tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. In Sweden, service is included in prices; in the US, service workers depend on tips. The Swedish Krona (SEK) is not accepted in the US; exchange at Arlanda or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of your return ticket. US customs on food items is strict: do not bring fresh produce or certain dairy products. Tipping in the US is very different from Sweden, where service is included in prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swedish citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Sweden has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Swedish passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before traveling.
How do Swedish citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What nonstop flights are available from Sweden to the United States?
SAS flies nonstop from Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and Washington (IAD). United also operates ARN routes.
How long can Swedish citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Swedish citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if a Swedish citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation. Consequences include deportation, VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties with future US visas.
Is ESTA valid for multiple trips to the United States?
Yes. A single ESTA is valid for multiple trips for up to 2 years or until your passport expires.