Foreign Hunters

Hunting In Sweden On A Foreign License

Q: Can I bring my hunting firearm into Sweden?

Yes, but the firearm must be properly declared and permitted. If you live within the EU/EEA, a European Firearms Pass makes the import easier. If you come from outside the EU, you normally need a temporary import permit from the Police, arranged in advance.

Q: What is a European Firearms Pass?

A common EU document showing that you legally own your firearms in your home country. It simplifies traveling with hunting firearms between EU countries, but it does not replace the requirement for an invitation or hunting rights in Sweden.

Q: Do I need a Swedish hunting card?

Yes. The game conservation fee (the state hunting card) applies to everyone who hunts in Sweden, regardless of nationality. It is paid to the Swedish EPA before you start hunting.

Q: How much lead time do I need from outside the EU?

Apply for the import permit well in advance. Processing takes time and should never be left to the last minute – plan several weeks ahead, ideally more ahead of high season.

Q: Does my foreign hunting exam apply in Sweden?

Your eligibility from your home country is the starting point, but the requirements around firearms, game and hunting seasons follow Swedish law. We help you interpret what your specific situation requires.

Q: Can you handle the whole process for me?

We guide you through every step, help you with the right documents and keep in contact with the authorities so your hunting trip is legal and smooth.

Q: What happens if something isn't in order?

Then the hunt may be judged as unlawful, with the risk of fines, seizure and a hunting ban. Read more on our page about hunting without a license – and let us help you do it right from the start.

Do you want to hunt in Sweden with hunting eligibility and a firearm license from another country? It's entirely possible – but the requirements differ depending on where you come from. Here is the complete guide for visiting hunters, and this is our core expertise.

Where Are You From?

Nordics, EU Or Outside The EU

The first thing that determines your path is which country you're traveling from. The rules for weapon import vary.

01

Nordics

As a hunter from a Nordic country the process is often simpler, but you still need to arrange a weapon declaration, the game conservation fee and hunting rights.
02

Rest Of EU/EEA

With a European Firearms Pass and an invitation, you can bring your hunting firearms for temporary use in Sweden.
03

Outside The EU

Here you normally need a temporary import permit from the Swedish Police, which must be applied for well ahead of the trip.

Checklist

This Must Be In Place

No matter where you come from, these pieces need to be in order before you head into the field.

Valid Home-Country License Hunting eligibility & firearm permit

Weapon Import Firearms pass or import permit

Game Conservation Fee State hunting card to the EPA

Hunting Rights Permission from landowner or hunt leader

The Right Firearm Meets the caliber requirements for the game

Hunting Seasons Aware of Swedish seasons & protection rules

Step By Step

How To Proceed

Our proven order of steps so your hunting trip is right from the start.

Step 1

Check Your Home-Country License

Your right to hunt rests on a valid license and documented hunting eligibility from your home country.

Valid hunting or firearm permit from your home country
Documentation proving your hunting eligibility
An invitation or proof of where and what you'll hunt

Step 2

Arrange Permits For The Firearm

How you bring in your hunting firearm depends on where you come from.

EU/EEA: a European Firearms Pass together with an invitation
Outside the EU: apply for a temporary import permit from the Police in good time
Declare the firearm at customs when crossing the border

Step 3

Pay The Game Conservation Fee

Everyone who hunts in Sweden must obtain the state hunting card – visitors included.

Paid to the Swedish EPA before the hunt
Valid per hunting year
Must be available to show on inspection

Step 4

Secure Hunting Rights And The Right Gear

You need permission from whoever holds the hunting rights and a firearm permitted for the game.

Written hunting rights or an agreement with the landowner/hunt leader
Check the caliber requirements for the relevant game
Know Swedish hunting seasons and protection rules

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions From Visiting Hunters

Can I bring my hunting firearm into Sweden?

What is a European Firearms Pass?

Do I need a Swedish hunting card?

How much lead time do I need from outside the EU?

Does my foreign hunting exam apply in Sweden?

Can you handle the whole process for me?

What happens if something isn't in order?

Planning To Hunt In Sweden?

Book a free consultation and we'll go through exactly which permits and fees apply to your specific trip and home country.

Book A Consultation