Diplomatic Portal

New Ambassadors from the Netherlands, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Japan, and Iran

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 14th of November 2024: H.E. Mr Theodorus Antonius (Joost) Reintjes, the Netherlands; H.E. Mr Olzhas Suleimenov, Kazakhstan; H.E. Ms Sarimah Akbar, Malaysia; H.E. Mr Hideaki Mizukoshi, Japan, and H.E. Mr Hojjatollah Faghani from Iran.

New Ambassadors from Switzerland, Laos, Spain, and Eritrea, with side accreditation from Rome

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 16th of October 2024: H.E. Mr Adrian Junker, Switzerland; H.E. Mr Bounthavy Vilavong, Laos; H.E. Mr Luis Manuel Cuesta Civís, Spain, and H.E. Mr Fessahazion Pietros Menghistu, Eritrea, side accredited from Rome.

New Ambassadors from Mongolia, Pakistan, the Republic of Congo, and Great Britain

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 4th of September 2024: H.E. Mr Tserendorj Munkh-Ulzii, Mongolia; H.E. Mr Bilal Hayee, Pakistan; H.E. Ms Nana Rosine Aurélie Ivouba, the Republic of Congo, and H.E. Ms Samantha Job, Great Britain.

New Ambassadors from Ecuador, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Paraguay

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 13th of June 2024: H.E. Mr Manuel José Vivanco Riofrío, Ecuador; H.E. Mr Kapila Thushara Fonseka, Sri Lanka; H.E. Ms Tshoki Choden, Bhutan, with residence in Brussels, and H.E. Ms Cynthia Filártiga-Lacroix, Paraguay, with residence in Paris.

Information from the Protocol Department

The Protocol Department wishes to inform that during the summer months, from June until mid-August, the handling time of matters at the Protocol Department may take longer due to vacation periods. From mid-July, newly arrived ambassadors will be asked to wait until mid-August before being able to meet with the Protocol Department for the delivery of the copies of their credentials. For any questions please send an e-mail to [email protected] or check our diplomatic guide. We wish you a great summer!

• Diplomatic guide

The Birthday of His Majesty the King

For those wishing to convey their congratulations to His Majesty the King on His birthday Tuesday 30th April, lists are available on this day between 1 pm and 4 pm in the Hall of State at the Royal Palace.

New Ambassadors from Albania, Oman, and Trinidad and Tobago

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 21st of March 2024: H.E. Ambassador Albana Dautllari, Albania; H.E. Maitha Saif Al Mahrouqi, Oman, with residence in Berlin, and H.E. Vishnu Dhanpaul, Trinidad and Tobago, with residence in London.

New Ambassadors from Serbia, Lithuania, Kenya, and North Macedonia

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 21st of February 2024: H.E. Jelena Cukic Matic, Serbia; H.E. Linas Linkevicius, Lithuania; H.E. Angelina Kavindu Musili, Kenya, and H.E. Djenk Sefula, North Macedonia

New Ambassadors from Brazil, Italy, South Korea , and the Democratic Republic of Congo

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 15th of February 2024: H.E. Ambassador Maria Edileuza Fontenele Reis, Brazil; H.E. Michele Pala, Italy; H.E. Hyung Jong Lee, South Korea, and H.E. Léopold Bompese Lofemba, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Circular note 3/2023 Public Holidays in Sweden 2024

Please find enclosed list of public holidays in Sweden for the year 2024

• Circular note no 3 2023 - Public Holidays in 2024.pdf

New Ambassadors from Botswana, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 7th of December 2023: H.E. Ambassador Juliana Angela Dube-Gobotswang, Botswana; H.E. Bojan Sosic, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Guillermo Francisco Reyes Gonzalez, Colombia, and H.E. Lourdes Margarita Franco-Zimmermann, Dominican Republic.

New Ambassadors from Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Australia, and Greece

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 9th of November 2023: H.E. Ambassador Nodir Ganiev, Uzbekistan; H.E. Svetlana Stoycheva-Etropolski, Bulgaria; H.E. Frances Sagala, Australia, and H.E. Ekaterini Fountoulaki, Greece.

New Ambassador from Mexico, Armenia, Algeria, and Qatar

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 27th of September 2023: H.E. Ambassador Alejandro Alday Gonzáles, Mexico; H.E. Anna Aghadjanian, Armenia; Seddik Saoudi, Algeria, and H.E. Nadia Al-Sheebi, Qatar.

New Ambassadors from Vietnam, Angola, Ireland, and Nepal

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 6th of September 2023: H.E. Ambassador Tran Van Tuan, Vietnam; H.E. Cecilia de Conceicao Caldeira Rosário, Angola; H.E. Barbara Jones, Ireland, and H.E. Ram Swarth Ray, Nepal, with residence in Copenhagen.

50th Anniversary of HM The King's Accession to the Throne

For those wishing to convey their congratulations to His Majesty The King on the occasion of the 50th anniversay of His Majesty The King's accession to the throne, lists are available on 13th and 14th of September between 10.00 hrs (10 am) and 13.00 hrs (1 pm) in the Office of the Marshal of the Realm, entrance through the Outer courtyard.

New Ambassadors from New Zeeland, Uganda, and Gambia

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 12th of June 2023; H.E. Ambassador David Taylor, New Zealand; H.E. Margaret Otteskov, Uganda, with residence in Copenhagen and H.E. Fatou Bensouda, with residence in London.

New Ambassadors from Peru and South Sudan

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. the King, on the 10th of May 2023: H.E. Ambassador Miguel Angel Samanez Bendezu, Peru and H.E. Mustafa Lowoh Walla Jabi, South Sudan, with residence in Oslo.

The Birthday of His Majesty the King

For those wishing to convey their congratulations to His Majesty the King on His birthday Sunday 30th April, lists are available on this day between 1pm and 4 pm in the Hall of State at the Royal Palace.

New Ambassadors from South Korea, Malaysia, Zambia, and Samoa

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 19th of April 2023: H.E. Ambassador Byungwon Chung, South Korea; H.E. Hafizah Abdullah, Malaysia; H.E. Gladys Lundwe, Zambia, and H.E. Francella Strickland, Samoa, with residence in Brussels.

New Ambassadors from Thailand, Holy See and Austria

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement, via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 22nd of February 2023: H.E. Ms. Arunrung Phothong Humphreys, Thailand; H.E. Archbishop Julio Murat, Holy See, and H.E. Ms. Doris Danler, Austria.

New Ambassadors from Iceland, Ecuador, Slovakia and Mali

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 13th of December 2022: H.E. Ambassador Bryndís Kjartansdóttir, Iceland; H.E. Veronica Bustamante Ponce, Ecuador; H.E. Ľubomír Čaňo, Slovakia and H.E. Oumou Sall Seck, Mali, with residence in Berlin.

Circular note 3/2022 Public Holidays in Sweden 2023

Please find enclosed list of public holidays in Sweden for the year 2023

• Circular note 3/2022 Public Holidays 2023

Circular note 2/2022 Time limit on lengths of service for certain posted staff

Circular note 2/2022 provides information for diplomatic missions and career consular posts regarding the maximum length of service for certain posted staff.

• Circular note 2 2022 Time limit on lengths of service for certain posted staff.pdf

New Ambassadors from Lesotho, Niger, San Marino, and Slovenia

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 26th of October 2022; H.E. Ambassador Sekhulumi Ntsoaole, Lesotho (with residence in Dublin; H.E. Moussa Dourfaye, Niger (with residence in Copenhagen); H.E. Leopoldo Guardigli, San Marino (with residence in San Marino), and H.E. Mihael Zupančič, Slovenia (with residence in Copenhagen).

New Ambassadors from Denmark, Estonia and Moldova

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 30th of September 2022; H.E. Ambassador Kristina Miskowiak Beckvard, Denmark; H.E. Toomas Lukk, Estonia; and H.E. Liliana Guƫan, Moldova.

New Ambassadors from Bangladesh, Romania, Turkey, and Chile

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 24th of August 2022; H.E. Ambassador Mehdi Hasan, Bangladesh; H.E. Daniel Ionita, Romania; H.E. Yönet Can Tezel, Turkey; and H.E. Tucapel Jiménez, Chile.

Information from the Protocol Department

The Protocol Department wishes to inform that during the summer months, from mid-June until mid-August, the handling time of matters at the Protocol Department may take longer due to vacation periods. For quicker handling, kindly send any enquiries by e-mail rather than contacting us by phone. We also recommend you to consult the Diplomatic Guide for valuable information.

• Send enquiries
• Diplomatic guide

New Ambassador from Jordan

H.E. Ambassador Muhib Mahmoud Nimrat (with residence in Oslo) submitted his letters of credence to His Majesty the King, on the 25 of May 2022.

New Ambassadors from Cyprus, Ethiopia and Peru

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 5th of May 2022; H.E. Ambassador Solon Savva, Cyprus; H.E. Mehreteab Mulugeta, Ethiopia and H.E. Cristina Ronquillo de Blödorn, Peru.

The Birthday of His Majesty the King

Announcement from the Office of the Marshal of the Realm

For those wishing to convey their congratulations to His Majesty the King on His birthday Saturday 30th of April, lists are available on this day between 1 pm and 4 pm in the Hall of State at the Royal Palace.

New Ambassadors from Palestine and Brazil

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, on the 5th of April 2022; H.E. Ambassador Ms Rula Almhaissen, Palestine and H.E. Maria Luisa Escorel de Moraes, Brazil.

Sweden has lifted entry ban related to Covid-19

The Government has decided to lift the entry ban related to Covid-19 to Sweden from all countries. Consequently, travellers are no longer required to provide a valid covid certificate showing proof of vaccination, a negative test result received within 72 hours prior to arrival or a proof of recovery from previous infection upon entry to Sweden. The decision is in effect as from 1 April 2022. See links below.

Latest on the Government's work related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Here you can read about the Government’s work related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

• Government.se

New ambassador from Ghana

H.E. Ambassador Sylvia Naa Adaawa Annoh (with residence in Copenhagen) submitted her letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on the 2 of March 2022.

New Ambassador from Uruguay

H.E. Ambassador Federico Perazza submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on the 17th of February 2022.

Sweden to lift ban on entry from EU/EEA countries

The Government has decided to lift the entry ban to Sweden from the Nordic countries and EU/EEA countries. Consequently, travellers from these countries are upon entry to Sweden no longer required to provide a valid covid certificate showing proof of vaccination, a negative test result received within 72 hours prior to arrival or a proof of recovery from previous infection. The decision is in effect from 9 February 2022. See link below.

Majority of the COVID-19 restrictions to be removed

The Government has decided that a phasing out of measures in response to COVID-19 will begin on 9 February 2022. As of that date, measures such as the participant limit for public gatherings and events and the possibility to demand vaccination certificates upon entry will be removed. The same will apply to other restrictions, such as the requirement of social distancing between groups and cap on group sizes. See link below.

COVID-19

Please note that the latest overall updates from the responsible Swedish authorities are available on www.krisinformation.se/en. Information specifically aimed for diplomatic missions is published on this page. For information about the Swedish Government’s work with regard to coronavirus disease (COVID-19), please see link below. The Public Health Agency of Sweden has a national responsibility for public health issues and provides information regarding the outbreak of COVID-19, please see Chapter 16.9 of the Diplomatic Guide.

• Krisinformation.se
• 16.9 The Public Health Agency of Sweden

New Ambassador from Somalia

H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Abdi submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on the 3rd of February 2022.

Several new measures against COVID-19 introduced in January 2022

Several new measures against COVID-19 introduced since 21 January 2022

• Several new measures against COVID-19 introduced in January 2022

New Ambassador from Libya

The following Ambassador submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 27th of January 2022: H.E. Mr Khttab Hussein Mohamed Lameen, Libya.

New Ambassador from United States of America

The following Ambassador submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 20th of January 2022: H.E. Mr Erik D. Ramanathan, USA.

New Ambassadors from China and Morocco

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 11th of January 2022: H.E. Mr Cui Aimin, China and H.E. Mr Karim Medrek, Morocco.

Further amendments to the entry ban – negative Covid 19 test required

As of 28th December, all travellers must be able to present a negative test result for ongoing COVID-19 infection upon arrival, regardless of the country they travel from. The test for ongoing infection must have been conducted within 48 hours prior to arrival to Sweden. See more information in the press release of the Ministry of Justice in the link below. For further information on how the ordinances on temporary bans on entry are to be interpreted and which exemptions apply, please visit the Swedish Police Authority website also in a link below.

• Travel to Sweden during the corona pandemic

Season's greetings

Season´s greetings from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms Ann Linde, Lucia songs from Hedvig Eleonoras Youth Choir as well as a thank you from the Chief of Protocol, Ms Maria Christina Lundqvist.

Amendments to the ban on entry into Sweden

The Government has decided to amend the ban on entry into Sweden. The amendments mean that all travellers in the EU/EEA are subject to the same requirements for entry into Sweden. The decision was made due to the increasing spread of infection and based on a request from the Public Health Agency of Sweden. The list of countries with approved vaccine certificates has also been updated. The amendments came into effect on 21 December.

New Ambassador from Algeria

The following Ambassador submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Monday 20th of December 2021, H.E. Mr Abdelaziz Djerad, Algeria.

Please follow the link regarding vaccine booster dose for persons born in 1961 or earlier

• Vaccine booster for dose for persons born in 1961 or earlier

New Ambassador from Japan

The following Ambassador submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday 16th of November 2021, H.E. Mr Masaki Noke, Japan.

Vaccine booster dose for people aged 65 years and older

Region Stockholm now offers a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine for people aged 65 years and older, as well as personnel in residential care homes, SÄBO, and in home healthcare and home care services. The third dose is offered at the earliest six months after the administration of the second dose. Eligible members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral) or at a drop in centre. Please find more information from Region Stockholm (in Swedish) in the link below:

• Så gör du för att vaccinera dig mot covid-19 - 1177 Vårdguiden.url

New Ambassador from Egypt

The following Ambassador submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday 9th of November 2021, H.E. Mr Ahmed Adel Sobhy Ahmed, Egypt.

Extended ban on entry to Sweden and exemptions for fully vaccinated travellers from US and other countries

The Government has extended the ban on entry to Sweden from countries outside and within the EU/EEA, effective 31 October. The Government has also decided on changes to the effect that travellers who can present a vaccine certificate issued in the US, Guernsey, Isle of Man or Jersey are exempted from the entry ban and test requirement when entering Sweden. The Government’s decision to extend the ban on entry to Sweden is primarily due to the continued uncertainty concerning transmission of COVID-19. Please find the full press release here:

New Ambassadors from Bolivia and Canada

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, 29th of October 2021: H.E. Mr. Milton Soto, Bolivia and H.E. Mr. Jason LaTorre, Canada.

New Ambassadors from Tanzania and Zimbabwe

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 22nd of October 2021: H.E. Ms. Grace Alfred Olotu, Tanzania and H.E. Ms. Priscila Misihairabwi-Mushonga, Zimbabwe.

New Ambassadors from Rwanda, Georgia, Luxembourg

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on 6th of October 2021: H.E. Dr. Diane Gashumba, Rwanda; H.E. Mr. Irakli Khutsurauli, Georgia and H.E. Mr. Henri Schumacher, Luxembourg (with residence in Copenhagen).

Amendments to the entry ban for people travelling to Sweden from certain countries outside the EU/EEA

The Government today adopted amendments to the temporary ban on entry into Sweden. The amendments mean that the general exemption from the entry ban for people living in certain specified countries will be adapted to align with the latest recommendation from the Council of the European Union to the EU Member States. The temporary entry ban entered into force on 19 March 2020 and initially applied for 30 days. It has subsequently been extended on several occasions, and under the latest such decision, the entry ban now applies until 31 October 2021. The entry ban means that a foreign citizen departing from a state other than an EEA State or Switzerland travelling to Sweden will be denied entry into Sweden and turned away. There are a number of exemptions from the ban, but travellers are normally required to present a negative COVID-19 test result even if they are covered by one of the exemptions. Please find the full press release in the link below.

New Ambassador from Latvia

The following Ambassador submitted her letter of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 29th of September 2021: H.E. Ms Ilze Ruse, Latvia

Handling procedures

The Protocol Department would like to inform embassies, consulates and international organizations that due to increased workload and lack of staffing, handling times for various services, including residence permits and ID cards, may take longer than usual. For quicker handling, please ensure that notifications and applications contain all the necessary information from the outset in accordance with the requirements specified in the Diplomatic Guide. If you have additional enquiries that cannot be answered through the information in the Diplomatic Guide, we kindly ask you to send them by email to [email protected] or directly to the handling officer in charge (see The Protocol Department in the link below). We count on your kind understanding.

• Diplomatic guide
• The Protocol Department

New Ambassadors from Finland and Norway

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 2nd of September 2021: H.E. Ms Maimo Henriksson, Finland and H.E. Ms Aud Kolberg, Norway.

New Ambassadors from Israel and Belgium

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Friday 27th of August 2021: H.E. Mr Ziv Nevo Kulman, Israel and H.E. Mr Carl Peeters, Belgium.

New Ambassador from Germany

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday 10th of August 2021: H.E. Dr Joachim Bertele and H.E. Mrs Christina Beinhoff, Germany. The two Ambassadors are a married couple who will share the Ambassador post, alternating in eight-month periods. H.E. Dr Joachim Bertele will serve as Ambassador for the initial period.

Vaccination against COVID-19 for children aged 16 and above

Region Stockholm has opened up the possibility for children born in 2005 or earlier to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are 16 years old or older can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

Circular note 2/2021 Increasing the size of the mission

Circular note 2/2021 provides information for diplomatic missions and career consular posts on applicable procedures when increasing the size of the mission.

• Circular note 2/2021 Increasing the size of the mission

Update on the issuing of COVID certificates for foreign diplomats in Sweden and their family members

The Swedish eHealth Agency has informed the Ministry that it should now be possible for staff members of diplomatic missions and their family members with so called immunity numbers to obtain a COVID certificate if the individual concerned has been vaccinated against COVID-19 in Sweden. If the individual has e-identification (such as Bank ID), it is possible to download a COVID certificate from the eHealth Agency’s website. If the individual does not have e-identification, the individual should fill in a form which is available on the eHealth Agency’s website and send it by post to the eHealth Agency. The eHealth Agency will then send the COVID certificate to the address which is registered with the Tax Agency. For most diplomats, this address will be the concerned Embassy’s address. Children over the age of 16 may request a COVID certificate by themselves. If difficulties arise, the eHealth Agency can be reached by email at [email protected] or by telephone at 0771-766 200. If there are any errors in the content of the COVID certificate, the health care provider which has carried out the vaccination should be contacted. Further information is available on the links below.

• Information about COVID certificates
• Log in with e-identification
• Form for individuals without e-identification

Vaccination against COVID-19 for all adults

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 9 July 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are 18 years old or older can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

Sweden’s new Government

Today in the Riksdag, Prime Minister Stefan Löfven announced the ministers who will serve in the Government. The change of government took place at a Council of State at the Royal Palace presided over by His Majesty The King. Further information is available on the link below.

New Ambassadors from the Philippines, Nigeria and Azerbaijan

The following Ambassadors submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 1st of July 2021. H.E. Ms Maria Lumen B. Isleta, Philippines; H.E. Mr Bukar Buni Hamman, Nigeria; H.E. Mr Zaur Rashid oglu Ahmadov, Azerbaijan.

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1991 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 29 June 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1991 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

New Ambassador from Saudi Arabia

The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Ms Enass Ahmad Alshahwan, submitted her letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Monday 28th of June 2021.

Entry ban on travel to Sweden extended

The Government has decided to extend the entry ban on travel to Sweden from EU/EEA countries. The Swedish regulations are also being adapted to the EU regulation on a COVID certificate. Further information is available on the link below.

New ambassador from the Republic of Korea

The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, H.E. Mr Ha Tae-youk, submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Monday 21st of June 2021.

Information from the Protocol Department

The Protocol Department wishes to inform that during the summer months, from June until mid-August, the handling time of matters at the Protocol Department may take longer due to vacation periods. From mid-July, newly arrived ambassadors will be asked to wait until mid-August before being able to meet with the Protocol Department for the delivery of the copies of their credentials. For any questions please send an e-mail to [email protected] or check our diplomatic guide.

We wish you a great summer!

• Diplomatic Guide

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1986 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 14 June 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1986 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

New Ambassador from the Czech Republic

The Ambassador of the Czech Republic, H.E. Ms Anita Grmelová, submitted her letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 9 June 2021.

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1981 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 3 June 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1981 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

Sweden’s National Day celebration 2021

Sweden’s National Day celebration will not be held as usual this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Information on how it will be held instead can be found in the attached link with a message from Martin Brothén, Secretary General, Foundation of the Swedish National Day.

• Letter from Martin Brothén, Secretary General, Foundation of the Swedish National Day

Entry ban on travel to Sweden extended, but entry restrictions from Nordic countries lifted

The Government decided on 28 May 2021 to extend the temporary entry ban from countries outside of the EEA until 31 August 2021. The temporary entry ban from countries within the EEA has been extended until 30 June 2021. Furthermore, the entry ban from the Nordic countries has been lifted. Further information is available on the links below.

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1976 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 21 May 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1976 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

New Ambassador from Italy

The Ambassador of Italy, H.E. Mr Vinicio Mati, submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday 18 May 2021.

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1971 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 10 May 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1971 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

Vaccination against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1966 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 5 May 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1966 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination against COVID-19 by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral).

Vaccinations against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1961 or earlier

Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 28 April 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1961 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral). Region Stockholm has informed all healthcare centres (vårdcentraler) in the Region that they may be contacted by diplomats and other members of the staff of the mission or their family members who are born in 1961 or earlier regarding appointments for vaccination.

Greetings to His Majesty The King of Sweden

Please find below, an announcement from the Office of the Marshal of the Realm on the ocassion of the birthday of His Majesty The King.

• Announcement His Majesty 30th April 2021.pdf
• Diplomatic Corps message - Royal Court

Vaccinations against COVID-19 for individuals who are born in 1956 or earlier

With reference to circular note 1/2021 of 25 January 2021 and the Ministry’s update on the Diplomatic portal on 13 April 2021, the Ministry wishes to inform all missions of the following. Region Stockholm has informed the Ministry that as of 19 April 2021, members of the staff of diplomatic missions and their family members who are born in 1956 or earlier can make appointments for vaccination by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral). Region Stockholm has informed all healthcare centres (vårdcentraler) in the Region that they may be contacted by diplomats and other members of the staff of the mission or their family members who are born in 1956 or earlier regarding appointments for vaccination. As has previously been communicated, vaccination against COVID-19 is voluntary and free of charge.

Update on the vaccination process against COVID-19

With reference to circular note 1/2021, the Ministry wishes to inform all missions of the following. Region Stockholm is currently in phase 2 of the vaccination process and is presently vaccinating individuals who are born in 1951 or earlier. The Ministry has contacted those embassies that have notified the Ministry of staff members or family members who are born in 1951 or earlier and informed them that they can make appointments for vaccination by contacting a healthcare center (vårdcentral). Region Stockholm has informed all healthcare centres (vårdcentraler) in the Region that they may be contacted by diplomats and other members of the staff of the mission or their family members who are born in 1951 or earlier regarding appointments for vaccination. Individuals who are born in 1952 or later are not yet eligible for vaccination and cannot yet make appointments. Vaccination against COVID-19 for members of the staff of the mission and their family members will be free of charge. The Ministry will provide all missions with further information on the implementation of the vaccination process as soon as it is made available.

Extension of general entry ban and testing requirement for travel from all countries

The Government decided on 24 March 2021 to extend the temporary entry bans (from the EEA and third countries respectively) to Sweden until 31 May 2021. The Government also made certain changes to the entry bans, including exempting diplomats who are posted to Sweden and their family members from the requirement of providing a negative COVID-19 test upon entry to Sweden. The amendments will enter into force on 31 March 2021. Further information is available through the links below.

New Ambassadors 22 March 2021

New Ambassadors from Sri Lanka and from Cambodia . The Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr Dharshana Mahendra Perera, and the Ambassador of Cambodia, (with residence in London), Mr Kan Pharidh, submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Monday 22 March 2021.

New Ambassador from the Republic of Kazakhstan

The Ambassador of Kazakhstan, H.E. Mr Sergey Nurtayev, submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 17 March 2021.

Parking spaces for diplomats at Arlanda airport

According to information from Arlanda airport, the parking spaces reserved for diplomats cars have moved to a new location at Terminal 5. The Diplomatic Guide (Chapter 15.6) has been updated accordingly.

• 15.6 Parking spaces at Arlanda airport
• Arlanda Airport's website

New Ambassador 3 March 2021

New Ambassador from the Dominican Republic. The Ambassador from the Dominican Republic submitted her letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 3 March 2021. H.E. Mrs Lourdes Gisela Antonia Victoria-Kruse, Dominican Republic.

New Ambassador 24 February 2021

The Ambassador from Cuba submitted her letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 24 February 2021. H.E. Ms Alba Beatríz Soto Pimentel, Cuba.

2021 STATEMENT OF FOREIGN POLICY

Today, 24 February, Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde presented the 2021 Statement of Foreign Policy.

Update of chapter 8.2 of the Diplomatic guide

Chapter 8.2 on social security contributions and tax deduction has been updated in order to reflect recent changes in Swedish law. For questions on the new legislation, please contact the Tax Agency. Contact details are available in chapter 8.2.

• Chapter 8.2 Social security contributions and tax deduction

New Minister for International Development Cooperation

The Swedish Government has appointed Per Olsson Fridh as new Minister for International Development Cooperation.

Negative COVID-19 test required for entry into Sweden

The Government decided on 3 February to introduce a requirement of providing a negative test result from on-going COVID-19 infection upon entry to Sweden. There is no general exemption for all diplomats. Diplomats who enter Sweden may therefore need to provide a negative test result. The Police Authority is the competent authority for border control matters. Further information is available in the link below.

Circular note 1/2021 - COVID-19 vaccination process

Circular note 1/2021 provides relevant information on the Swedish national COVID-19 vaccination process.

• Ciruclar note 1/2021

Ban on entry into Sweden from Norway

The Government decided on 24 January to impose an entry ban on travel from Norway. The entry ban entered into force on 25 January. The ordinance on the entry ban includes an exception for diplomats and their family members and officials of international organisations who are posted to Sweden. The Police Authority is the competent authority for the application and interpretation of the ordinance in individual cases. Further information is available in the links below.

• The Police Authority's website

Longer processing times at the Protocol Department

Due to the stricter general advice announced by the Public Health Agency of Sweden on 8 January to reduce the rapid spread of the COVID-19, the staff at the Protocol Department is currently working from home to a greater extent. This means that the processing times might be a bit longer than usual and we hope for your understanding. The stricter advice is applicable until 31 January, but may be extended.

Chairperson-in-Office and Foreign Minister of Sweden Ann Linde presented Sweden’s 2021 priorities to Permanent Council of the OSCE

Please find below a letter to the attention of the Diplomatic Corps and International Organisations in Stockholm, as well as the programme for the Swedish Chair 2021 and a list of contacts to the Task Force for the Swedish OSCE Chairpersonship 2021 at the MFA.

• Letter to Diplomatic Corps and International Organisations in Sweden
• Programme of the Swedish OSCE Chairpersonship 2021
• Contacts to the Task Force for the Swedish OSCE Chairpersonship 2021 at the MFA

Extension of entry ban from Denmark and the United Kingdom

The Government has decided to extend the entry ban from Denmark and the United Kingdom until 31 January 2021. In addition, certain clarifications regarding the exemption for medical transports have been made and minors who are visiting parents residing in Sweden are exempted from the travel ban. The changes will enter into force as of 16 January 2021. Further information is available in the press release below.

Entry ban from the United Kingdom and Denmark

The Government decided on 30 December 2020 to make certain further changes to the entry ban from the United Kingdom. People who are exempt from the travel ban, including diplomats, will be required to present a negative test result from on-going Covid-19 infection upon arrival. The changes will enter into force as of 1 January 2021. Further information is available in the press release below.

Entry ban from the United Kingdom and Denmark

The Government decided on 23 December 2020 to make certain changes to the entry ban from the United Kingdom and Denmark. Further information is available in the pressrelease below.

Season´s greetings from Ann Linde, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Ban on entry into Sweden from the United Kingdom and Denmark

The Government decided on 21 December to impose an entry ban on travel from the United Kingdom and Denmark. The ordinance on the entry ban includes an exception for diplomats and their family members and officials of international organisations who are stationed in Sweden. The Police Authority is the competent authority for the application and interpretation of the ordinance in individual cases. Further information is available in the press release below.

Extension of temporary entry ban to Sweden until 31 March 2021

The Swedish Government decided on 17 December 2020 to extend the entry ban until 31 March 2021 and to make an amendment due to Brexit. The exceptions for diplomats and their family members remain unchanged.

New Ambassador 9 December 2020

The Ambassador from India submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 9 December 2020. H.E. Mr Tanmaya Lal, India.

New Ambassadors 4 December 2020

New Ambassadors from Pakistan, Argentina and Guatemala. The Ambassadors from Pakistan, Argentina and Guatemala submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Friday, 4 December 2020. H.E. Mr Zahoor Ahmed, Pakistan; H.E. Ms Maria Clara Biglieri, Argentina; H.E. Mr Georges de La Roche Du Ronzet Plihal, Guatemala.

Nobel Week 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the twelve Nobel Laureates 2020 will receive their prices in their home countries. The Nobel Week will however be full of events and Nobel Price Award Ceremonies will take place in Oslo and Stockholm on 10 December. The ceremonies and many of the events taking place during the Nobel Week will be live streamed and possible to follow online. During the Nobel Week you will also be able to enjoy Nobel Week Lights, an artistic tribute to this year’s Nobel Laureates with artistic light installations shown in Stockholm. More information is provided by the enclosed press statement.

• Nobel Week 2020

New Ambassadors 23 November 2020

New Ambassadors from Switzerland, Ukraine and Tunisia. The Ambassadors from Switzerland, Ukraine and Tunisia submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Monday 23rd of November 2020. H.E. Mr François Voeffray, Switzerland; H.E. Mr Andrii Plakhotniuk, Ukraine; H.E. Mr Riadh Ben Sliman, Tunisia.

New Ambassador 19 November 2020

The Ambassador of Indonesia submitted his letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 19th of November 2020. H.E. Mr Kamapradipta Isnomo, Indonesien

Circular note 4/2020- Correspondence for Government Offices

Diplomatic Missions are kindly reminded that all delivery of diplomatic correspondence for the Government Offices, including the Protocol Department, has to be delivered to our postal service centre located at Herkulesgatan 19.

• Circular note 4/2020

Public Holidays in Sweden 2021

Find enclosed the list of public holidays in Sweden for the year 2021

• Circular note 3-2020.pdf

Longer processing times at the Protocol Department and temporary stop for photo sessions for residence permit cards

Due to the stricter general advice announced by the Public Health Agency of Sweden on 29 October to reduce the rapid spread of the COVID-19, the staff at the Protocol Department will be working from home to a greater extent. This means that the processing times might be a bit longer than usual and we hope for your understanding. The stricter advice is applicable until 19 November, but may be extended. Due to this situation, it has also been decided to temporarily suspend the photo sessions for residence permit cards at the Ministry. Please note that this will not affect the stay in Sweden nor the process for ID cards. Applications for resident permits for newly arrived staff as well as for extensions of stay will be processed as usual and a copy of the decision will be sent by ordinary mail. In case of urgent need for a residence permit card due to necessary travel, please contact the Protocol Department by email or telephone. Please note that normal processing time for such a card is five working days from the day the photo is taken.

New Ambassadors 29 October 2020

New Ambassadors from Ireland and Malta. The Ambassadors from Ireland and Malta submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 29th of October 2020. H.E. Mr Austin Gormley, Ireland; H.E. Ms Marlene Mizzi, Malta, with residence in Malta.

Circular note 2/2020 Consequences of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union

Circular note 2/2020 provides relevant information for diplomatic missions, career consular posts and international organisations on the consequences of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union

• Circular note 2/2020 Consequences of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from the European Union

Extension of temporary entry ban to Sweden until 22 December 2020

The Swedish Government decided on 22 October 2020 to extend the entry ban until 22 December 2020. The exceptions for diplomats and their family members remain unchanged.

New Ambassadors 7 October 2020

New Ambassadors from Thailand, Jordan, Andorra and Maldives. The Ambassadors from Thailand, Jordan, Andorra and Maldives submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 7 October 2020. H.E. Ms. Kanchana Patarachoke, Thailand; H.E. Mr. Janti Kalajoqa, Jordan, with residence in Oslo; H.E. Mr Gil Rossell Duchamps, Andorra, with residence in Andorra; H.E. Mr Ahmed Latheef, Maldives, with residence in Berlin.

New Ambassadors 24 September 2020

New Ambassadors from Colombia and Spain. The Ambassadors from Colombia and Spain submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 24 September 2020. H.E. Mr César Tulio Delgado Blandón, Colombia; H.E. Ms Cristina Latorre Sancho, Spain.

New Ambassadors 9 September 2020

New Ambassadors from Portugal and France. The Ambassadors from Portugal and France submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 9 September 2020. H.E. Ms Sara Martins, Portugal ; H.E. Mr Etienne de Gonneville, France.

New Ambassadors 2 September 2020

New Ambassadors from El Salvador, Iceland and the Netherlands. The Ambassadors from El Salvador, Iceland and the Netherlands submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday 2 September 2020. H.E. Ms Patricia Nathaly Godínez Aguillón, El Salvador; H.E. Mr Hannes Heimisson; Iceland; H.E. Mr Bengt van Loosdrecht; The Netherlands.

New Chief of Protocol

As from 1 September 2020, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs has a new Chief of Protocol; Ambassador Ms Maria Christina Lundqvist. Maria Christina’s most recent post has been as Ambassador in Vilnius.

Extension of temporary entry ban to Sweden until 31 October 2020

The Swedish Government decided on 27 August 2020 to extend the entry ban until 31 October 2020. The exceptions for diplomats and their family members remain unchanged. The decision was taken following a Council of the European Union recommendation.

• Information on the entry ban from the Swedish Police Authority

Extension of temporary entry ban to Sweden until 31 August 2020 and easing of restrictions for more travellers

The Swedish Government decided on 2 July 2020 to extend the entry ban until 31 August 2020. At the same time, the Government decided to ease the restrictions for more travellers. Among other things, people invited by international organisations whose physical presence is required for the well-functioning of these organisations are now explicitly exempted. Furthermore, certain countries outside of the EEA are now also exempted. The exceptions for diplomats and their family members remain unchanged. Today's decision was taken following a Council of the European Union recommendation.

• Information on the entry ban from the Swedish Police Authority

Extension of temporary entry ban to the EU via Sweden due to COVID-19

The Swedish Government decided on 25 June 2020 to extend the temporary entry ban to the EU via Sweden until 7 July 2020. As previously, the ban does not apply to certain travellers such as people residing in Sweden and who want to return home, diplomats and their family members, staff of international organisations or other persons who have particularly important reasons for travelling to Sweden. The competent authority for application and interpretation of the new ordinance is the Swedish Police Authority. According to the Police Authority, it is advisable for members of diplomatic missions who enter Sweden from a country outside of the EEA or Switzerland or UK for the first time to, in addition to their passport and visa, bring documentation on their posting to Sweden, for example a certificate or a note verbale from the Embassy or Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the sending state. For members of diplomatic missions who are already posted to Sweden, it is important to bring his or her ID-card and/or residence permit card when entering Sweden from a country outside of the EEA or Switzerland or UK. Further information is available in the links below.

• Information on the entry ban from the Swedish Police Authority

Update on the latest developments regarding testing for COVID-19

Considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Swedish Government would like to provide the diplomatic community with the following short update on the latest developments regarding testing for COVID-19, both for active and previous infection.

• Update on testing for COVID-19

Log on to 1177.se (information about health care and services provided by the Regions of Sweden)

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has been informed by the company administering the website 1177.se that as of 10 June 2020, it will now be possible to log on to the website with an immunity number.

Amendments to the temporary ban on entry into Sweden

The Swedish Government decided on 4 June 2020 to make certain amendments to the temporary entry ban. Further information is available on the links below. The exceptions for diplomats and staff of international organisations remain unchanged.

• Information about the entry ban from the Swedish Police Authority

Photo sessions for residence permit cards

The Protocol Department will now gradually resume the photo sessions for residence permit cards and contact the embassies with proposed time. Special precautions have been taken in the photo studio to avoid queuing and the spread of infection. Please note that the residence permit card is needed for traveling outside Sweden. The Protocol Department will continue to send a copy of the residence permit decision showing that the stay in Sweden is legalized and during which period the permit applies. This means that people who belong to a risk group and do not have plans to travel outside Sweden this summer/autumn can reschedule their appointment to a later date if they wish to. If so, please inform the Protocol Department as soon as possible after you have been offered an appointment.

Invitation 29 May: An online video meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Ann Linde, and Minister for Health and Social Affairs, Ms. Lena Hallengren

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Ms. Ann Linde, would like to invite all Heads of Missions to Sweden to an online video meeting on Friday, 29 May 14.30-15.30. Please note that the time of the event has been changed. During the meeting the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Health and Social Affairs, Ms. Lena Hallengren, will brief participants on Sweden’s international and national engagement and approach to handling the current Covid-19 pandemic. The online meeting is expected to last for approximately one hour and will include a questions and answers (Q&A) segment at the end. Kindly register your intention to participate by sending a reply to [email protected]. For more details, please see attached instructions. We look forward to your participation.

• Instructions

New parking spaces for diplomats at Arlanda airport

According to information from Arlanda airport, all parking spaces reserved for diplomats cars at the airport are now situated at the short term car park at Terminal 5. The Diplomatic Guide (Chapter 15.6) has been updated accordingly.

• 15.6 Parking spaces at Arlanda airport
• Arlanda airport's website

Greetings to His Majesty

Please find below, an announcement from the Office of the Marshal of the Realm on the birthday of His Majesty the King.

• Announcement from the Office of the Marshal of the Realm
• The Royal Court's website on greetings to His Majesty

New Ambassadors 23 April 2020

New ambassadors from Poland and Vietnam. The ambassadors from Poland and Vietnam submitted their letters of credence to H.M. The King of Sweden, by a special arrangement via the Protocol Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, on Thursday 23 April 2020. H.E. Ms Joanna Hofman, Poland; H.E. Mr Phan Dang Duong, Vietnam.

Message from the Minister for Foreign Affairs to the Diplomatic Corps

Questions regarding the possibility of extending stay in Sweden due to cancelled flights etc.

Many Embassies turn to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs with questions regarding the possibility of extending stay in Sweden due to for example cancelled flights because of COVID-19. The Swedish Migration Agency, which is the responsible agency for these questions, informs as follows; Individuals who can prove that they are not able to leave Sweden due to for example cancelled flights because of COVID-19 are recommended to apply for a visitor’s residence permit. If you apply for a visitor’s residence permit before your visa, your visa-free period or your current residence permit has expired, you have the right to remain in Sweden until the Migration Agency has made a decision. Please note that it is important to apply before the current permit or visa-free period expires. For further information, see links below.

• Migration Agency: Infor­ma­tion regar­ding the coro­na­virus
• Migration Agency: Apply to extend your visit to Sweden

Postponed annual diplomatic trip to Jämtland 14-15 May 2020

Due to the extraordinary situation with COVID-19, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs has decided to postpone the trip to Jämtland in May this year. The Ministry hopes to be able to arrange the trip sometime in the spring of 2021.

Permits for air traffic to Sweden due to COVID-19

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs receives questions about where to turn for permits regarding extra commercial or civil flights to Sweden due to COVID-19. Information and contact details concerning this can be found in the Diplomatic Guide, Chapter 23.

• 23. Permission to enter Swedish airspace or waters

Circular note 1/2020

Circular note 1/2020 provides information on the Embassies' communication with the Government Offices and the Government Agencies.

• Circular note 1/2020