Travel insurance is ALWAYS the safest choice for every traveller. However, whether it is mandatory or not depends on your need to apply and obtain a Schengen visa. Here’s why.

Sweden and Schengen Travel Requirements

On March 25, 2001, Sweden became part of the Schengen area, the largest zone of free movement in the world.
Consequently, it follows the same entry rules as all other Schengen countries.
Depending on their nationality, some travellers must obtain a Schengen visa (also called type C or short-stay visa) to be allowed in Sweden.

A complete visa application must include several compulsory documents, including a travel insurance certificate proving that the candidate is covered by valid travel insurance during their stay in Sweden. Without this document, the visa request will be denied.

→ Travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa applicants.

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to visit Sweden?

You won’t need to apply for a visa to be allowed in Sweden if:

• You are a citizen of a Schengen or European Union country.
• You hold a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen or EU state.
• You are a citizen of one of the sixty or so countries which have signed a visa-waiver agreement with the EU, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S.

Beware! These lucky travellers still need to comply with a few essential requirements including:

• Carry a valid passport.
• Apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation.
• Comply with the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule.

Who needs a Schengen visa to be allowed in Sweden?

You will be required to apply (and obtain) a Schengen visa if you are a citizen of one of the hundred or so countries which have not signed a visa-waiver agreement with the EU including China, India, Russia, most of the Middle East, and all African nations.

Tip: check out the list of nationalities which need a Schengen visa.

How to obtain a Schengen visa for Sweden?

Relax! If you do need to hold a Schengen visa to be allowed in Sweden, the AXA Team is here to help. Thanks to our several step-by-step guides, you will master the visa application process in no time:

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Sweden?
• What are the different types of visas for Europe?
• What documents are required with your Schengen visa application?
• How long does the Schengen visa process take?

Pro-tip: Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll tell you more about:

• How to track your visa application online?
• How to extend the validity of your visa?

CAUTION! For your Schengen visa application to be accepted, your travel insurance must comply with Article 15 of the European Union Visa Code and must be purchased before applying for a Schengen visa for Sweden.

What are the EU travel insurance requirements to obtain a Schengen visa for Sweden?

For your travel insurance to be accepted with your Schengen visa application, it must:

• Guarantee a €30,000 minimum coverage for medical expenses.
• Cover emergency hospitalisation and medical care due to health issues occurring during your stay.
• Bear the costs of repatriation to your home country in case of serious health issues or even death.
• Be certified by all the countries of the Schengen area (not just Sweden).
• Be valid in all Schengen countries (not only Sweden).
• Remain valid during the entire duration of your stay.
• Be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries.

Good news! AXA Schengen travel insurance meets all these criteria and much more!

What does AXA Schengen travel insurance cover?

When travelling to Sweden, having a Schengen-compliant travel insurance is essential. AXA Schengen travel insurance not only meets all EU visa requirements but also ensures you are fully covered during your stay in Sweden, from medical emergencies to baggage protection.

AXA Travel Insurance is perfect for Schengen visa applicants

• AXA Schengen visa insurance complies with E.U requirements in terms of visa obligations.
• It is certified and accepted by all the consulates and embassies.

● It is thus automatically accepted with Schengen visa applications.

● It offers medical coverage of minimum €30,000 and up to €2 million depending on the chosen plan.

• Quick,easy and secured subscription is done 100% online.

● Instant Schengen travel insurance certificate is automatically sent by email.

● Your travel insurance is refundable if the visa application is denied.

Comprehensive and customisable coverage

AXA Schengen travel insurance covers:

● Medical expenses and hospitalisation up to €2 million,

● Emergency dental care.

● Sanitary repatriation including in the event of death.

● Multilingual 24/7 assistance: our team of experts will direct you to the appropriate health facility, avoiding long useless hours in the emergency waiting room when possible.

● Free remote medical consultations via our unique “Doctor, please!” app available in English and several other languages.

● Search and rescue costs (depending on the chosen option).

● Both civil liability and personal liability.

● Death and disability insurance.

● Assistance in case of loss of ID documents.

● Comprehensive baggage insurance (included or optional).

Coverage for your loved ones

● Repatriation of the other insured parties and provision for the care of minors.

● Visits of relatives in case of a solo traveller’s hospitalisation.

● Delivery of essential medicine, glasses or prosthesis.

What are the other benefits of choosing AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for your Swedish stay?

Choosing AXA Schengen travel insurance for your Swedish stay gives you more than just visa compliance. From worldwide reliability to flexible and budget-friendly coverage, discover how AXA goes beyond basic protection to make your trip to Sweden safer, smoother, and worry-free.

The reliability of an insurance world leader

For more than 65 years, AXA has built a strong international reputation thanks to its affordable, comprehensive and reliable insurance coverage.

Their thorough knowledge and understanding of local culture allow the AXA expert teams to provide efficient and fast assistance to travellers in need worldwide.

Efficient and budget-friendly insurance

AXA simplifies your visa application process thanks to easily accessible services:

• No age restriction or medical exam required.
• 0 deductible: full refund of medical expenses paid.
• Individual or group offers (family, friends, colleagues).
• Customisable options: luggage insurance, higher medical coverage, etc.
• Duration flexibility - from just one day to six months, or up to a full year.
• Decreasing rates depending on the duration of the stay, for the best value for money.
• Flexible coverage scope: all the Schengen states, European microstates, other non-Schengen but EU countries as well as the United Kingdom.
• Available with multiple upgrade options designed to satisfy all needs and budgets.

What is the best AXA Schengen insurance plan for your Swedish getaway?

Solo or with a group, whether you intend on enjoying the Swedish lagom or ambition to take on the Abisko-Nikkaluokta trail to admire the northern lights, AXA has the perfect comprehensive and customisable travel insurance plan for you!

• AXA Schengen Basic offers standard and efficient coverage to obtain your Schengen visa.
  This travel insurance option meets all the mandatory requirements, covers you in all the countries of the Schengen Area as well as in the 4 European microstates (Andorra, Vatican City, Monaco and San Marino).
• AXA Schengen Essential provides complete and reliable coverage at an affordable price. Another perfect choice to obtain your Schengen visa.
  Not only does it meet all visa requirements and is valid in all the Schengen countries + the European microstates, but it also offers coverage in all the EU countries as well as the UK.
• AXA Schengen Premium is THE all-inclusive plan allowing you to obtain your Schengen visa and to travel stress-free all over Europe.
  Its coverage is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK.
• AXA Schengen Annual is the ideal yearly travel insurance plan for frequent travellers to Europe as well as multiple-entry Schengen visa holders.
  One contract for a full year of travel coverage across Europe!
  It is valid in all Schengen countries + the EU countries + the 4 microstates + the UK

How much does Schengen travel insurance cost for one week in Sweden?

AXA’s plans are affordable and customisable. Thanks to the many additional options available, you can create the perfect tailor-made plan for your needs and budget.
The total cost of your travel insurance for Sweden depends on the duration of your trip, the extent of your coverage and the additional options you will choose.

TIP: Get a free online quote and check the price list of our different Schengen visa travel insurance plans.

Find the best value Schengen travel insurance for your Sweden trip

Quality - Reliability - Efficiency

AXA’s number one concern will always be to provide efficient quality assistance while reducing costs for their protégés to the reasonable minimum. Cheap in terms of cost not quality!

● With the Essential plan, you will enjoy comprehensive yet affordable coverage including:

• Medical expenses up to €100,000,
• Medical repatriation,
• 24/7 medical assistance
  … and much more!

● The ANNUAL plan offers the same coverage and options but will be the wisest choice for frequent travellers.
It is both convenient and cost-effective. Purchase a single policy — and all your trips under 90 days are covered for a full year!

How to get your Sweden Schengen travel insurance certificate instantly online?

● Your AXA travel insurance certificate for Sweden is sent via email immediately after you’ve paid for your travel insurance online.

● This document which is absolutely mandatory to obtain your Schengen visa can thus be enclosed with your visa application file whenever you need it.

PRO TIPS:

● Since your AXA travel insurance is refundable if your visa application is denied, we recommend purchasing it as early as possible in the application process, allowing you to focus stress free on the other documents which must be enclosed with your file.

● Read our complete step-by-step guide to obtaining your travel insurance certificate

How to get your Sweden Schengen travel insurance reimbursed if your visa is refused

Good news! If your Schengen visa application for Sweden is denied, AXA’s travel insurance is refundable.
All you need to do is send us the official consular documents stating the refusal and the reasons for the negative decision.
Your policy payment will be returned in accordance with AXA’s terms.
→ To submit a refund request for your insurance policy, contact us here: claim your refund.

PRO TIP: Nobody wants a Schengen visa to be refused! Check out our guide on how to avoid visa rejection before submitting your application.

If you don’t need a Schengen visa, can you still visit Sweden without travel insurance?

Even if your nationality doesn’t require you to purchase travel insurance, your common sense should.

While you might think that you are saving on your travel budget by skipping the option, the long-term consequences of this choice could leave a lasting bitter taste to an otherwise pleasant trip!

Will EHIC coverage suffice in Sweden?

Holders of the European Health Insurance Card (or EHIC) will have access to the same care as local residents in case of medically necessary treatment or emergency. That is to say, they will only have to pay a remaining patient fee or co-payment.

EHIC holders will however have to receive this treatment though public, state-funded facilities.

Caution! Private sector treatments are not covered by the EHIC. Repatriation costs and common travel mishaps –like lost luggage, third-party damages, or personal accidents– are also excluded.
→ We recommend comprehensive travel insurance for full protection during your trip.

Bonus info
Health facilities in Sweden are categorised according to the urgency of the situation:

• For a simple consultation, you will see a doctor at a Vårdcentral, Husläkarmottagning or Hälsocentral.
• For non-life-threatening emergencies, you will visit a Närakut, Jourcentral or Jourmottagning.
• For serious emergencies, the Akutmottagning will welcome you 24/7 without an appointment.

Which expenses are not covered by the EHIC in Sweden?

Without comprehensive travel insurance, you will need to pay full charge for expenses such as:

● Health care provided by private facilities and medical professionals,
● Treatment not considered as urgent or necessary,
● Urgent dental care,
● Medical evacuation or repatriation to your home country, including changes in flights due to health issues,
● Costs related to changes in accommodation arrangements in case of illness or accidents,
● Damages caused to a third party,

You’ll also have to handle alone:

● Loss or theft of ID documents or credit cards,
● Damage or loss of baggage.

→ With AXA by your side, every unexpected moment is covered - before, during, and after your stay in Sweden or anywhere else in the Schengen area.

Travellers without an EHIC or travel insurance

Travellers who do not have an EHIC or any travel insurance are fully responsible for all medical costs in Sweden, from consultations and emergency care to hospitalisation and surgeries.
They also need to handle any travel-related mishaps themselves, such as lost luggage, theft, or accidents.
→ Recommendation: To avoid high out-of-pocket expenses and ensure full protection, all travellers in this situation should purchase comprehensive Schengen travel insurance before their trip to Sweden.

How much can healthcare in Sweden cost without travel insurance or the EHIC?

Without proper coverage, healthcare can cost:

• More than €185 (2,000 SEK) for a consultation at a närakut
• Around €685 (7.400 SEK) for care delivered in an Akutmottagning, not including additional analysis, diagnostic tests or hospitalisation.

Bonus tips!
1. AXA Schengen travel insurance includes 24/7 multilingual assistance, helping you navigate Sweden’s healthcare system and find the right care quickly, even in urgent situations.

2. For non-urgent cases, you can also benefit from free remote medical consultations via our app, available in multiple languages. Practical, reassuring, and accessible anytime, day or night!

Travel guide: a few basic Information and fun facts about Sweden

● Capital: Stockholm

● Currency: the Swedish Krona (SEK)

● Language: Swedish

● People: Swedes

● Sweden is the second biggest winner of the Eurovision Song Contest with six victories since the creation of the competition in 1956. In 1974, the group ABBA gained world fame with its now classic song “Waterloo”.

● While IKEA is a Swedish brand, since 2021, its largest store is no longer located in its home country but in the Philippines.

● Coffee and biscuit(s)? The Swedes have once again found a name to our little pleasure breaks: a fika. Next time your colleagues ask you where you were, you can answer: Fika! Don’t forget to smile to avoid misinterpretation!

● While in Stockholm you can visit the World’s longest underground art gallery: the subway! More than 150 artists have transformed the 110 kilometres of the T-bana into an art exhibit space.

● The Swedish capital city is built on 14 islands. Be ready to cross a few bridges!

● For more information:

• Sweden's official website for tourism and travel information
• More key and fun facts about Sweden : the official website of Sweden

Don’t leave without us!

We won’t add any weight to your suitcase, but we will make sure you’re fully protected — with Schengen-compliant insurance accepted for your visa application and reliable coverage throughout your stay in Sweden and across Europe.

Get your free Schengen travel insurance quote online
no personal details required.

Related Articles

You might find these articles interesting:

• 30 fun facts about the Schengen area
• Public holidays in Europe
• Changes and new rules for travellers to Europe this year

FAQ

What should I do in case of medical emergency during my trip to Sweden?

First of all: don’t panic. You’ve chosen AXA, you’re in safe hands.
Contact our AXA call centre at the number featured on your insurance policy. A team of experts available 24/7 will assist you and help you find the nearest medical facility.
You will be asked to provide your policy reference number (starting with SCH).

Don’t forget to keep all invoices related to medical expenses for your records.
Good to know! AXA also provides online medical assistance.

I want to visit other Scandinavian countries during my trip to Sweden, do I have to purchase several travel insurance plans?

No need! If you choose the AXA Schengen Basic plan you will be covered in all the countries part of the Schengen area as well as the European micro-states. The Essential, Premium and Annual plans will also protect you in all EU countries as well as the United Kingdom!

Which AXA plan includes baggage protection?

Baggage protection is included in the Premium and Annual plans, covering theft, loss, or damage during your trip.
If you choose the Basic or Essential plan, you can easily add luggage coverage as an optional upgrade to enhance your protection.