The Swedish government has announced that the current travel ban into the EU has been extended until 30 June 2020. This means that travelling into Sweden will be very limited with a few exemptions.
Swedish citizens, EU citizens, and people who have a residence permit in Sweden may still enter the country for the purpose of returning to their homes. Secondly, people with particularly urgent needs or who are to carry out essential functions in Sweden may enter the country.
Please note:
- Due to current immigration legislation by the Swedish Migration Agency, individuals need to commence employment in Sweden within four (4) months from the start date on their work permit. If employees might not be able to commence work on time, it is important to withdraw the permit to avoid any issues.
- Domestic travel restrictions within Sweden have been lifted from 13 June 2020
- The Swedish government discourages any travel abroad until 15 July 2020
- Services at Swedish Embassies abroad might still be limited
- Aside from the Migration Agency, both airlines and border police have their own laws and policies regarding travelling. Therefore, all travels, even within the EU can be a risk.
How are our relocation services delivered in the current situation?
- Skatteverket (Tax Agency) – update on current process
Applications for both civil registration and ID cards are currently provided as unaccompanied services. This is due to restrictions from the Tax Agency regarding the number of people allowed to enter their premises at the same time. A digital meeting is set up with the employee prior to the appointment to fill in forms and make necessary preparations so the they are prepared.
- Banking-related matters
This service is also currently unaccompanied. A digital meeting is set up with the employee prior to the appointment to fill in forms and make necessary preparations so the employee is prepared.
- Local orientation – virtual solutions
Since the government recommendations on social distancing have not changed, a digital meeting is conducted with the employee in order to guide them through the practicalities e.g. registering at the closest medical center, etc. When possible, the remaining part of the tour is done in person.
- Schools and higher education – lifted restrictions
High schools and facilities of higher education will shortly open again from 15 June 2020. During the summer period, courses may take place in the classrooms again.
- Household Goods Shipment – Challenging summer period
The booking and delivery of household goods will continue in the same manner as it has for the past few weeks. However, the summer period, like every year, comes with challenges regarding availability of packing and delivery dates. This year, there is also an increased shortage due to a reduction in the availability of containers due to COVID-19. The time slots are getting taken rapidly, so early planning is needed by Mobility/employee when planning these services.
Other things to note:
- Manpower at the Migration Agency and the Tax Agency will be reduced during the summer period, and even more so due to the current pandemic.
- Neighboring countries have started to lift their quarantine restrictions and non-essential businesses are allowed to resume their services. Denmark, for example, allows transit travel to Sweden.
- Due to the uncertainty of travelling policies everywhere, our general recommendation is to avoid travelling if possible
- Human Entrance would like to highlight that the current travel ban might be extended due to the development of the COVID-19 situation
