Stockholm

๐Ÿ†”

Personal Identification

Information on keeping personal identification secure and understanding local ID requirements.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Personal Identification in Stockholm, Sweden (Safety and Security)

Personal identification (ID) is a critical aspect of daily life in Stockholm, Sweden, and is essential for accessing services, proving your identity, and ensuring safety and security. Below is a detailed guide covering the types of personal identification required or commonly used, how to obtain them, associated costs, necessary documents, and practical tips for visitors and immigrants.

1. Types of Personal Identification in Stockholm

a. National ID Card (Nationellt ID-kort)

  • Who needs it? Swedish citizens.
  • Purpose: Used for travel within the EU/EEA and as a primary form of identification in Sweden.
  • Issued by: The Swedish Police Authority (Polisen).

b. Swedish Personal Identity Number (Personnummer)

  • Who needs it? Residents staying in Sweden for more than 12 months (immigrants, long-term workers, students).
  • Purpose: A unique 10-digit number used for accessing healthcare, opening bank accounts, signing contracts, and more.
  • Issued by: The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

c. Coordination Number (Samordningsnummer)

  • Who needs it? Individuals staying in Sweden for less than 12 months or those without a permanent address.
  • Purpose: A temporary identification number for limited access to services.
  • Issued by: The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

d. Swedish ID Card (Svenskt ID-kort)

  • Who needs it? Residents with a Swedish personal identity number (Personnummer).
  • Purpose: Used for identification in daily life, such as picking up packages, accessing healthcare, or verifying age.
  • Issued by: The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).

e. Passport

  • Who needs it? Visitors and immigrants without Swedish-issued ID.
  • Purpose: Used as a primary form of identification for non-residents and for international travel.

f. EU/EEA National ID Cards

  • Who needs it? EU/EEA citizens visiting or living in Sweden.
  • Purpose: Accepted as valid identification for EU/EEA nationals.

2. Procedures for Obtaining Personal Identification

a. Swedish Personal Identity Number (Personnummer)

  1. Eligibility: You must plan to stay in Sweden for at least 12 months.
  2. Application Process:
    • Visit your local Skatteverket office.
    • Submit an application for population registration (Folkbokfรถring).
    • Provide the required documents (see below).
  3. Processing Time: Typically 2-4 weeks.
  4. Cost: Free.
  5. Required Documents:
    • Valid passport or EU/EEA national ID card.
    • Residence permit (if applicable).
    • Proof of address in Sweden (rental contract, utility bill, etc.).
    • Employment contract, admission letter from a Swedish university, or other proof of purpose for staying in Sweden.

b. Swedish ID Card (Svenskt ID-kort)

  1. Eligibility: You must have a Swedish personal identity number (Personnummer).
  2. Application Process:
    • Book an appointment at Skatteverket.
    • Visit the office in person to apply.
    • Provide the required documents (see below).
  3. Processing Time: Typically 2-3 weeks.
  4. Cost: SEK 400 (as of 2023).
  5. Required Documents:
    • Valid passport or EU/EEA national ID card.
    • Proof of Swedish personal identity number (Personnummer).
    • If you are under 18, a legal guardian must accompany you.

c. National ID Card (Nationellt ID-kort)

  1. Eligibility: Only Swedish citizens can apply.
  2. Application Process:
    • Book an appointment with the Swedish Police Authority.
    • Visit the office in person to apply.
    • Provide the required documents (see below).
  3. Processing Time: Typically 5-10 business days.
  4. Cost: SEK 400 (as of 2023).
  5. Required Documents:
    • Valid Swedish passport or other proof of citizenship.
    • Personal identity number (Personnummer).

3. Importance of Personal Identification in Daily Life

In Stockholm, personal identification is essential for:

  • Accessing Healthcare: You need a Personnummer to register with a healthcare provider and access subsidized healthcare.
  • Opening a Bank Account: Banks require a Personnummer and Svenskt ID-kort for account creation.
  • Signing Contracts: Renting an apartment, getting a mobile phone plan, or signing employment contracts often requires a Personnummer.
  • Picking Up Packages: Post offices and delivery services require valid ID for package collection.
  • Age Verification: Alcohol purchases (at Systembolaget, the state-run alcohol store) and entry to certain venues require ID.
  • Public Safety: Carrying valid ID helps law enforcement verify your identity if needed.

4. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Always Carry ID: While itโ€™s not legally required to carry ID at all times, itโ€™s highly recommended for practical reasons, especially for immigrants and visitors.
  • Digital ID: Sweden is highly digitized. Once you have a Personnummer, you can use BankID, a secure digital identification system, for online banking, signing documents, and accessing government services.
  • Respect Privacy Laws: Sweden has strict privacy laws (GDPR). Your personal data is protected, and organizations must have a valid reason to request your ID.
  • Language Considerations: Most government services are available in Swedish, but many staff members speak English. Bring a Swedish-speaking friend or translator if needed.
  • Lost ID: If you lose your ID, report it immediately to the issuing authority and, if necessary, the police. This helps prevent identity theft.

5. Safety and Security Considerations

  • Identity Theft: Protect your personal information and ID documents. Do not share your Personnummer or BankID details with unauthorized individuals.
  • Scams: Be cautious of phishing scams or fraudulent requests for your ID or personal information. Verify the legitimacy of any organization requesting your details.
  • Police Checks: If approached by the police, you may be asked to show ID. Cooperate respectfully and provide valid identification.
  • Emergency Situations: In case of emergencies, having ID on hand can help authorities assist you more effectively.

6. For Visitors

  • Visitors staying less than 12 months do not need a Personnummer but should carry their passport or EU/EEA national ID card at all times.
  • If you plan to stay longer or transition to residency, start the process of obtaining a Personnummer as soon as possible.

7. Summary of Costs

| Type of ID | Cost (SEK) | Processing Time | |-------------------------------|----------------|----------------------| | Swedish Personal Identity Number (Personnummer) | Free | 2-4 weeks | | Swedish ID Card (Svenskt ID-kort) | 400 | 2-3 weeks | | National ID Card (Nationellt ID-kort) | 400 | 5-10 business days |

By understanding and obtaining the appropriate personal identification, you can navigate life in Stockholm with ease and confidence. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or an immigrant, having the right ID ensures access to essential services, enhances your safety, and helps you integrate into Swedish society.