Sweden, a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, is known for its high-quality healthcare system and strong welfare policies. Whether you’re coming for short-term visits, study, work, or migration, health and travel insurance is a crucial requirement for immigrants entering Sweden.
Travel insurance ensures you are covered for medical emergencies, accidents, repatriation, and unexpected eventsduring your stay in Sweden. For long-term stays, additional or national health coverage becomes necessary depending on your visa type and residency status.
Who Needs Travel Insurance in Sweden?
Travel or health insurance is required for the following categories:
| Type of Immigrant | Is Travel Insurance Required? |
|---|---|
| Short-term visitor (Schengen visa) | Yes – Mandatory |
| Student visa holders | Yes – Strongly recommended or mandatory |
| Work visa holders (short stay) | Yes – Required until covered by national insurance |
| Long-term residents (permanent visa) | Initially – Until registered in the Swedish system |
| Asylum seekers | Provided by state |
Why Is Travel Insurance Important in Sweden?
-
Mandatory for Schengen Visa: Proof of valid travel insurance is compulsory for a Schengen visa application.
-
Covers medical emergencies: Healthcare in Sweden can be expensive without coverage.
-
Repatriation protection: In case of serious illness or death, repatriation is covered.
-
Lost baggage or delays: Many policies also cover travel disruptions and lost personal belongings.
Minimum Insurance Requirements (Schengen Visa)
If you’re applying for a Schengen visa to Sweden, your insurance must:
-
Cover at least €30,000
-
Be valid in all Schengen countries
-
Cover medical emergencies, hospital care, and repatriation
-
Be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay
Types of Insurance for Immigrants
| Insurance Type | Purpose | Coverage Period |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Insurance (short stay) | Medical, travel accidents, theft, emergencies | Up to 90 days (Schengen visa) |
| International Student Insurance | Designed for students; includes medical and sometimes dental | Duration of study program |
| Private Health Insurance | For workers and long-stay visa holders not yet in national system | Until permanent registration |
| National Health Insurance (Försäkringskassan) | For residents staying long-term (over 1 year) | After registration as a resident |
How to Get Insurance
You can buy travel or private health insurance:
-
Online via international insurers like:
-
Allianz, AXA, Cigna Global, IMG, or Europe Assistance
-
-
From local insurance providers in your country
-
Sometimes through Swedish employers or universities
Make sure the insurer provides a certificate of coverage that meets Schengen requirements, especially for visa applications.
Cost of Travel Insurance in Sweden
| Stay Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 week | €10 – €25 |
| 1 month | €30 – €60 |
| 3 months (Schengen max) | €75 – €150 |
| Long-term private plans | €50 – €150/month |
Prices vary depending on age, health conditions, and coverage level.
When You Qualify for Swedish National Health Insurance
You become eligible for the Swedish National Health Insurance (Försäkringskassan) when:
-
You are granted residency for more than 1 year
-
You have registered your address with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket)
-
You have received a personal identity number (personnummer)
Once registered, you will access subsidized or free public healthcare in Sweden.
What Does Swedish Health Insurance Cover?
-
Doctor visits
-
Hospital stays and surgeries
-
Maternity care
-
Prescriptions
-
Rehabilitation and long-term care
-
Some dental care for children or subsidized adult dental
Note: Dental and vision for adults may require additional private coverage.
Travel and health insurance is a non-negotiable part of moving to Sweden—especially for visa applications and the early stages of your stay. Whether you’re a short-term visitor or a future permanent resident, having the right insurance ensures peace of mind and access to healthcare without financial strain. Make sure you understand your obligations and choose a reliable insurance provider that meets Swedish and Schengen standards.
FAQs
1: Is travel insurance mandatory to enter Sweden?
Yes, especially for those requiring a Schengen visa. The insurance must cover at least €30,000 and include emergency medical and repatriation coverage.
2: Can I use travel insurance instead of Swedish national health insurance?
Only temporarily. Once you become a legal resident staying over 1 year, you must register with Försäkringskassanand switch to the national system.
3: What insurance is best for international students in Sweden?
Students should look for international student insurance that covers both medical care and personal liability. Some universities provide insurance for admitted students.
4: How do I register for Swedish public health insurance?
You must:
-
Get a residence permit
-
Register your address with Skatteverket
-
Apply to Försäkringskassan to access public healthcare
