Having a Swedish ID-Card – a so-called ID–kort – will make your life in Sweden a lot easier as you will need it all the time – when picking up packages from the post office or when you wish to open a Swedish bank account.
To get an ID-card you must:
- Be registered as living in Sweden (have a personnummer).
- Be at least 13 years old.
- Have your parent/guardian´s approval if you are less than 18 years old.
A Swedish ID-card is not valid as identification when travelling in the EU. For international travel, you need a National ID-card, which you get at any passport office in the country.
How to apply for a Swedish ID card
The process is as follows:
- Make an appointment at the Swedish Tax Office website.
- Pay the application fee.
- Go to a Tax Agency offices that issue ID card.
- You do not need to bring a photograph as you will be photographed at the tax office.
- At the tax office you must make an Electronic application.
- Bring papers to prove your identity.
Pay the application fee for the ID card
Start by paying the fee which is approximately 400 SEK even though it varies a bit from year to year. Remember to print and bring the receipt of the payment or you will have to wait until the payment reaches the Swedish Tax Office.
Prove your identity
Prove your identity through an approved ID document (mostly a passport). You have two options if you lack an approved ID document. The first option is to bring your Swedish residence permit with you and allow the Tax Agency – Skatteverket to compare the information in your residence permit with the information in your application.
The second option is to bring a family member, friend or employer (a so called attestor) with you when you apply. You will also need to tell them your personal number – personnummer. You will be photographed and measured at the office.
Last but not least, the ID-card from Skatteverket comes with an e-identification function. This might be quite useful, especially if you wish to use the e-services that many government offices offer.
Processing times for ID card
Processing times are generally about two weeks. If something in your application needs to be investigated, it may take longer. You will receive a letter from Skatteverket when your card is ready. You need to collect your ID-card in person and within two months. Remember to bring your letter with you.
Note: the letter contains your PIN and PUK that you will need for your e-identification. Don’t bring this part of the letter with you when you collect your ID-card. Never keep your codes together with your ID-card.
FAQs
How do I apply for a personnummer?
Register with Skatteverket after moving to Sweden and meeting residence grounds. Bring ID and required documents.
What is a coordination number (samordningsnummer)?
A temporary identifier used when a personnummer cannot be issued yet.
How long do coordination numbers take?
Processing times vary; check Skatteverket’s current guidance.
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