Meeting new people can be challenging when coming to Sweden. However, once you have found friends, you want to maintain a good relationship with them. Knowing Swedish visiting etiquette can be very useful!
The first time I had my Swedish friends over was when I learned most of these unspoken rules. They were so kind: they brought flowers with them and kept complimenting the food throughout the evening. I received a phone call the next day to thank me, and I was invited to their place a week later.
In my home country, Lebanon, if you are close to the host, it is better to arrive early in order to help with preparations. You also do not have to take off your shoes at the door, but bringing a small gift is considered a nice gesture. Texting the next day is not really regarded as good manners, but returning the invitation is very much appreciated.
Useful things to keep in mind when visiting someone in Sweden, in terms of etiquette:
Never forget to take off your shoes at the door, along with your outerwear (jacket, scarf, etc.).
Bring a small gift with you. Whether it is wine, chocolate or flowers, any gesture is highly appreciated.
Never arrive early. If you agreed to meet at 7, try to arrive at 7 or 10–15 minutes later. If the host is still preparing and you arrive early, it can be considered stressful.
Also, keep in mind never to arrive too late. You usually have a 15-minute window after the agreed time. So if it is 7, arrive no later than 7:15.
If the visit includes a meal, mention how good the food tastes. It will not hurt if you say it more than once. Asking for the recipe is also a nice way to show interest.
Thank your host again at the door before leaving.
Sending a message the next day to say thank you also shows appreciation.
Do not forget to invite them in return, as this is considered good manners.
I like the norms here, and I have even made my family back home follow the “take off your shoes at the door” rule. It took me some time to get used to the customs here, but now they are part of my lifestyle. It is never inappropriate to show good manners.
Have you experienced something different? Let us know in the comments.
