What ID do you need to travel from Sweden to Denmark?
Travel ID by nationality
Short answer
Citizens of the Nordic countries do not need a passport to enter Denmark, but they must show that they are most likely Nordic citizens. A passport, a driving licence or a national photo ID card is recommended, and Swedish, Norwegian and Finnish national ID cards are approved as travel ID. Other EU and EEA citizens need a passport or a national ID card approved as travel ID. Everyone else needs a passport and a Schengen visa or residence permit if their nationality requires it.
Why
- The rule depends on your nationality, not on where you start.
- Only passports and national ID cards show nationality.
- Residents of Sweden from outside the EU still need a passport.
Details
Nordic children under 18 who travel with a Nordic parent or guardian who can identify themselves do not need their own ID.
Tip
If you are not a Nordic citizen, carry your passport even when you are only crossing for the day.
What may differ
Which national ID cards are approved as travel ID can change, so check the current list before you go.
Common misconception
A Swedish residence permit card replaces a passport when you go to Denmark.
What actually happens
Non-EU nationals need a passport, plus a visa or residence permit if required.
People also ask
- Can Swedes use their national ID card in Denmark?
- Is a driving licence enough for Nordic citizens?
- Do children from Sweden need a passport for Denmark?
Sources
- Danish Police: Travel ID for entry into DenmarkChecked at:
- borger.dk: When you travel with a passportChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Entry and customs rules can change, so check the Danish Immigration Service, the Danish police and the Danish Customs Agency before you travel.
Planning and budgetRelated questions
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Do you pay customs on gifts sent to Denmark from outside the EU?
A gift sent by a private person from outside the EU is free of duty and VAT if it is worth EUR 45 or less.
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Can you bring medicine into Denmark?
Yes, from 1 January 2026 you may bring medicine into Denmark for personal use from any country, if it was sold legally in the country where you bought it.
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Can you bring meat and milk into Denmark from outside the EU?
No, travellers coming from a country outside the EU may not bring any meat or dairy products, which includes sausages, cheese and milk.
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Do you have to declare cash over EUR 10,000 when entering or leaving Denmark?
Yes, if you carry cash or other liquid assets worth EUR 10,000 (about 75,000 kr.) or more, you must declare them to Toldstyrelsen when you enter or leave Denmark.