Challenges For International Travelers To Visit Sweden This Summer
Many European destinations are currently reopening to foreign tourists this summer, particularly those who have been fully vaccinated. However, any international travelers wishing to visit Sweden this summer will face a number of challenges. A recent announcement from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a very high level of COVID-19 transmission in Sweden right now.
International travelers face challenges in Sweden
The CDC recently issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Sweden over the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. According to the travel alert, Sweden has a very high level of coronavirus transmission. On top of this, the Travel.State.Gov website refers to the level 4 notice with the simple words “Do not travel to Sweden due to COVID-19.” Meanwhile, there are also a number of restrictions in place affecting Americans’ entry into the country.
Having received full vaccinations will help. The CDC announced on June 17, 2021, that “your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with a U.S. FDA Authorized vaccine. Therefore, before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for fully vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.”
From June 1, international travelers aged 18 or over are required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result at the Swedish border in order to gain entry. This test must have been run a maximum of two days prior to arrival.
On the other hand, visitors from other Nordic countries, including Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway, are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result.
Health and safety requirements in Sweden
Readers should note that recommendations may vary from region to region in Sweden. More information can be found about each region on krisinformation.se.
Generally speaking, businesses are open in Sweden. However, social distancing still applies and each business must take all necessary precautions to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Masks are recommended countrywide on public transport during the week at busy times, between the hours of 7 to 9 am and 4 to 6 pm. As from June 1, restaurants and bars are now allowed to stay open until 10:30 pm.
Any international traveler who really needs to travel to Sweden should keep up to date with the latest preventative measures recommended in the country, including tests for travel certificates. Information can be found on the website of the Public Health Agency of Sweden.
They should also keep themselves updated with any varying regulations that may apply in different countries relating to travel to Sweden. It is also important to visit the Travel.State.Gov website for updated information on COVID-19 and related restrictions in Sweden.
Smart Traveler Enrolment Program
On top of this, the US Department of State recommends the free Smart Traveler Enrolment Program that offers the latest safety and security information during emergencies when traveling overseas.
Take care this summer when traveling internationally, always ensuring that you have the correct information based on the latest findings, wherever you go.
Be sure to catch up on everything happening with Travel. Come back here often for Travel news and updates.
Photo credit: Deposit photos