The strict entry bans, which were introduced after a more contagious virus strain established itself in the UK and were also found in Denmark, were changed today following a decision by the government.
Britons and other travelers from there who live or work in Sweden are now granted an exemption and released across the border.
However, they are forced to choose means of transport other than air, as the government is simultaneously extending the stop for airborne passenger traffic until 31 December.
The hope, however, is that it will be more short-lived than that:
- We also instruct the Swedish Public Health Agency to immediately inform the Swedish Transport Agency if the infection control situation could mean that the decision can be revoked before 31 December, says Minister of Foreign Affairs Anna Hallberg (S).
Relief for Bornholm residents
The government decision also aims to make life easier for the inhabitants of the Danish island of Bornholm southeast of Skåne, which has been hit hard by the travel ban on Denmark.
People who live on the island or work in healthcare there now get exemptions so that they can get between Bornholm and the rest of Denmark via Sweden.
In addition to the above exceptions, people from both Denmark and the United Kingdom with “urgent family reasons” will also avoid the general entry ban.
However, the government does not specify which reasons are considered urgent, this time.
In the past, for example, it has been a matter of reuniting with minor children or close relatives who are seriously ill.
According to the government, the now revised travel bans for the United Kingdom and Denmark are in line with the EU's joint efforts to slow down the spread of the mutated virus.
The rules come into force at midnight and apply until 21 January.
If they do not change again.