Biometric passports

Swedish passports conform to EU norms

The passports and identity cards are equipped with a computer chip which stores the holder’s personal data and photo. At border controls, the passport holder can be photographed and the photo compared to that in the data chip. The aim is to ensure that the person using the passport and the person in the passport photo is one and the same person.

Further information about Swedish passports and national identity cards is available on the Swedish Police Service website:
> www.polisen.se

Electronic handling

The Swedish missions abroad are equipped to produce the data for a passport or identity card. The application is then sent electronically to Sweden, where the travel documents are produced.

Two personal visits

The procedure for travel documents means that a person who is applying for a new, regular passport or national identity card must make two personal visits. The first visit will be to submit the application and the second to pick up the passport or identity card when it is ready. When the passport and/or identity card is collected, the data on the chip is checked and the staff can then be sure that the travel document is given to the right person.

Different alternatives for Swedes abroad

Swedish citizens who are resident abroad and who need a new passport or identity card can apply in different ways:

• While visiting Sweden
  The quickest and cheapest way is to apply while visiting Sweden. You can contact any passport authority and the fee is currently SEK 400. Normally, you can pick up a new passport or identity card within a week. It is also possible to collect your new travel document at an embassy or consulate, although this takes longer and costs more.
  
  
• At a Swedish mission abroad
  You can also submit your application at any Swedish mission abroad. The fee is currently SEK 1 400. Delivery of new travel documents takes between four to six weeks, as passports are produced in Sweden and are sent by courier. Travel documents can be picked up at any passport authority in Sweden or abroad.

Honorary consulates

Honorary consulates are no longer able to accept applications for regular passports and national identity cards.

Documents required for applications

Everyone applying for a passport or national identity card must provide proof of identity. The applicant must also provide proof of Swedish citizenship. Applicants are advised to consult the staff of the passport authority prior to submitting their application.