Moving customs clearance
Moving customs clearance to Sweden - This is how it works
Moving to Sweden from a country outside the EU means that your personal belongings must be declared to the Swedish Customs. But! You can get duty-free – if you meet certain conditions. Here at Tullify, we go through everything you need to know, step by step, so that your move in goes as smoothly as possible.
What is duty-free removals?
Duty-free removal goods means that you do not have to pay duty or VAT on personal belongings you bring with you to Sweden when you move here from a country outside the EU.
Requirements for obtaining duty-free access
- You have been residing outside the EU for at least 12 months.
- You are now moving your permanent residence to Sweden.
- Your items have been used by you or someone in your household for at least 6 months.
- The items are for private use – not for sale.
- You import the goods within 12 months of being registered in Sweden.
Supporting documents – show that you are really moving
To get duty-free, you need to be able to prove that you are actually moving to Sweden and that you meet the requirements. You may need to submit, for example:
To prove that you are a resident:
- Proof of moving out of Sweden (if you have been here before)
- Documents showing that you have lived outside the EU (e.g. address registration in that country)
- Registration in the municipality where you lived
- Residence permit and possible work permit
- Certificate from employer
- Rental or purchase contract
- Decision on population registration from the Swedish Tax Agency or proof of right of residence
To prove that you owned and used your items:
- Purchase documents (receipt, invoice or installment contract)
- Foreign insurance papers
- Vehicle registration and insurance documents
- Shipping documents
Documents you need to have ready
☐ Copy of the declarant's passport
☐ Decision from the Swedish Tax Agency regarding population registration
☐ Documents proving that you have lived outside the EU
☐ Any residence or work permits
☐ Relocation certificate, address registration or emigration certificate
☐ Packing list of your moving goods
☐ Completed moving declaration (immigrant or returnee)
☐ Registration certificate + purchase documents if you are bringing a vehicle
☐ Shipping documents (if you used a shipping company)
Packing list – this should be included
A packing list is mandatory. It should contain:
– A clear summary of what you are bringing with you
– Specified capital goods such as:
• vehicle
• computers
• televisions
• refrigerator
• alcohol, tobacco
– Other things can be grouped:
• clothes
• kitchenware
• books
• textiles/linen
Here's how it works - step by step
- You contact us at Tullify – we will review your documents and prepare the declaration.
- We submit the customs declaration digitally to the Swedish Customs.
- The Swedish Customs decides on duty exemption.
- Your moving goods can be delivered.
Common mistakes – and how to avoid them
- Bringing brand new gadgets – requires at least 6 months of use
- Submitting the tax return late – must be done within 12 months of population registration
- Not having enough supporting documents
- Trying to get things for sale
- Forgetting extra documents when taking a vehicle
Do you need help?
We are experts in moving customs clearance. Whether you move yourself or use a moving company, we make sure everything is done right from the start.
📩 Email us at info@tullify.se or call us – we'll help you all the way.
Important links
Swedish Customs – Duty-free removals: https://www.tullverket.se/privat/importeravaror/flyttasaker.4.78594778159e8354e24546.html
The Swedish Customs' guide for moving people: https://www.tullverket.se/privat/importeravaror/flyttasaker/personflytt.4.78594778159e8354e2454b.html
Swedish Tax Agency – Moving to Sweden: https://www.skatteverket.se/privat/folkbokforing/flyttatillsverige
Disclaimer
Please note that it is always the Swedish Customs that ultimately decides whether you are granted duty-free or not. The information here is for guidance only and does not replace official rules or decisions.
