Moving to Sweden with pets

For most of you, moving to Sweden with pets is essential. However, you should be aware that there are certain rules that need to be followed. We’ve gathered essential information, so you can happily move with your furry friend to Sweden.  

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5 steps to moving to Sweden with pets

The rules to bring pets from another country are set by the European Union. Countries like Sweden or Norway, however, have special requirements on the matter. If you come from a non-European country, other conditions may apply too.

*Important: The following rules apply to dogs, cats and ferrets. Other animals may need special requirements.  

1. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies (they must be 12 weeks old at least to have its primary vaccination). Pets will be allowed to travel 21 days after their first rabies vaccination. If you travel from a non-European country like the United States, you’ll also need to get an EU entry Health certificate.  
2. Puppies and kittens must be at least 3 months and 22 days old. Read more about it here. 
3. Pets must be ID-marked with an ISO microchip. This must be done before the rabies vaccination. The microchip is not required if your pet was tattooed before the 3rd July 2011.  
4. Your pet requires an EU passport (this can be purchased from your veterinarian). You’ll also need insurance for your pet (it’s a MUST). Treating pets in Sweden is very expensive.
5. Report to a customs office: When passing the border, you will report to a customs officer that you are bringing a pet. Just follow the Red Point marked on the floor to get to the customs office. Here’s the list of all customs offices in Sweden )  

E-learning course: Moving to Sweden with pets

Are you planning to move to Sweden with pets and feeling a bit overwhelmed about all the stuff you need to figure out to move? We’ve got you covered. Over the years we’ve been repeatedly told just stressful this process can be so we created a digital course with all the information you need to move to Sweden with pets. Here you will learn about:

• Bringing pets from the EU.
• Bringing pets from listed countries.
• Bringing pets from unlisted countries.
• Laws and animal protection.
• ID-markings.
• Missing pets.
• Insurance.
• What to do if your pet gets sick.
• And some frequently asked questions.

Sign up to your course here

Animal rights in Sweden

Swedes are very close to their pets, treating them as valued family members. The Swedish law says that your dog should be allowed to go outside at least every 6 hours. If you keep it indoors, it must have a view of a window allowing sunlight.  

Some companies let their workers bring their dogs to the office. You can also leave your pet in a dog day-care centre (although they’re quite expensive) or hire a pet sitter. Your pet will get the extra love and care it deserves.

Pet laws in public spaces

When taking your dog for a walk it’s forbidden to leave them off the leash, but it’s okay to do it in forests or open spaces, as long as you keep an eye on them. Notice some parks provide fenced-in enclosures where your dog can run free and mingle with other dogs. Your pets also need to socialize.  

Pets are allowed on public transport, but they must be on a leash or in a carrier. There are restricted areas on buses and trains where pets are not allowed due to people allergies, so keep an eye on signs! 

Pets and rented apartments 

Stockholm is one of the most challenging rental markets and when looking for a pet-friendly flat it makes it even more difficult. The reasons are: damage on the property and, again, allergies.  

But it’s not impossible. Some advice: When landlords point out “no pets allowed” it might refer exclusively to dogs or cats. You can persuade them with a great rental application letter describing your dog’s excellent behaviour. Be willing to pay a higher deposit on the rent is another way to sway the landlord.  Finding a pet-friendly landlord can also mean a better tenant-landlord relationship. So, it’s worth the try!  

Pet insurance

Health care for animals is in one word – expensive. And unfortunately the famous Swedish social welfare system does not include our furry, scaly or winged friends. It is therefore no wonder that there a lot of insurance companies that offer insurance for your pets.

We have a page dedicated to pets and insurance. Check it out to learn how it works in Sweden but here are a few insurance companies to check out. 

• Lassie* – dogs and cats. They have a cool digital app where the more you learn, the more points you get which can be used for a lower insurance price.
• FurryChamp* – dogs and cats. Super competitive pet insurance started by a newbie! Website in English and the customer service is in a bunch of different languages.
• ICA Försäkringar* – dogs and cats
• Agria – dogs, cats, horses and small animals and birds

Valuable sites for more information  

• Customs
• Pet Travel
• Swedish Board of Agriculture

Is there something missing? Give us a shout!