Russian non-biometric passports will no longer be recognised from 1 October
As of 1 October 2026, Swedish authorities will no longer recognise ordinary non-biometric passports issued by the Russian Federation. If you hold such a passport, you may therefore need to apply for a new passport.
From 1 October 2026, Sweden will no longer recognise ordinary non-biometric passports issued by the Russian Federation. A non-biometric passport is a passport that does not store the holder’s personal data, such as a photograph and fingerprints, on an electronic chip. A person whose passport is not recognised by Sweden cannot use that passport to enter Sweden. This also means that the person cannot be granted, for example, a visa or a residence permit for studies, visits, employment, or to live with another person.
During a transitional period from 1 October to 31 December 2026, Sweden will accept ordinary non-biometric passports issued by the Russian Federation if you meet either of the following conditions:
• Your passport contains a valid visa issued before 1 October 2026 by Sweden, another EU Member State, or another Schengen country.
• You hold a valid residence permit issued before 1 October 2026 by Sweden, another EU Member State, or another Schengen country.
If you need to replace your non-biometric passport with a biometric passport, you should apply for a new passport through the authorities of your country of nationality as early as possible.
From 1 January 2027, Sweden will also no longer recognise non-biometric Russian diplomatic passports or service passports.
For general information on the conditions for entry into and residence in Sweden see Travel to and from Sweden and the right to stay External link, opens in new window. on the Swedish Police Authority website.