How much does an ID card cost in Sweden right now?
It's easy to confuse passports, driving licenses, and various types of ID cards when you need to sort out paperwork in Sweden. The question how much does an ID card cost has a fairly simple basic answer: a Swedish ID card from the Swedish Tax Agency normally costs 400 kronor. But which document you actually need depends on whether you need to identify yourself in everyday life, travel within the EU, or prove who you are if you've moved here from the US or another country.
How much does an ID card cost in Sweden?
An ID card issued by the Swedish Tax Agency normally costs 400 kronor. The card is valid for five years and functions as a Swedish physical identification in many everyday situations – for example, at the bank, at the pharmacy, when picking up packages, or when you need to prove your identity to companies and authorities.
The fee is the same whether you are applying for the first time or need a new card after the old one has expired. If you lose your card, have it stolen, or change your name, you will practically need to apply for a new one and pay the fee again.
Prices may change by government decision. Therefore, always check the current fee and payment method when booking or preparing your visit. It's a small detail, but it can save an extra trip if the rules have been updated.
Which ID card are you referring to?
In common parlance, many people just say "ID card," but in Sweden, this can refer to several different documents. They don't always cost the same amount and cannot be used for the same things.
ID card from the Swedish Tax Agency
The Swedish Tax Agency's ID card is the most common choice for those who need a Swedish identification but do not necessarily intend to travel. It normally costs 400 kronor and is primarily for identification within Sweden.
To apply, you usually need to be registered in Sweden and be able to prove your identity. For a person who has recently moved to Sweden, population registration is often the first step. An American passport is an important identification document, but it does not always replace a Swedish ID in all everyday situations.
Children and young people may also need ID cards, for example, for banking matters, studies, or travel. For minors, special rules apply regarding parental consent, so check what applies before you go.
National ID card from the Police
The national ID card is issued by the Police and also normally costs 400 kronor. The difference is that it can be used both as identification and as a travel document within the EU and certain other European countries that accept the card.
This card is only for Swedish citizens. If you are an American citizen with a residence permit in Sweden, you cannot obtain a national Swedish ID card merely by residing here. In that case, the Swedish Tax Agency's ID card is often the relevant alternative, provided you meet the conditions.
A national ID card can be practical if you want to travel light within Europe and prefer to leave your passport at home. If you are traveling to the USA, the UK, or countries outside the area that accepts the card, you will normally still need a passport.
Banks' and companies' ID cards
Some banks, employers, and organizations may offer their own ID cards. Price, validity period, and usage vary. Some bank cards, for example, previously functioned as full-value identification, but the range has changed, and not all banks offer this anymore.
An employee ID card from an employer can be useful at work, but it is not automatically an approved identification in stores, with authorities, or at the bank. If you need a card that works broadly in everyday life, it is wise to choose an established Swedish ID document.
What is included in the fee?
When you pay the fee for an ID card, you are paying for processing, on-site photography, manufacturing, and the card itself. Therefore, you usually do not need to bring your own passport photos. The picture is taken in connection with the application, ensuring it meets the document's requirements.
However, expect to have your own related costs. This could include travel to the service office or police station, potential childcare, time off work, or the cost of obtaining the documents needed to prove your identity.
If a card has been stolen, it is also wise to block or report it according to the authority's instructions as soon as possible. The fee for the new card is one thing, but reducing the risk of misuse is more important.
How to prepare your application
Most things go smoothly when you have the right items with you. Start by determining which type of card you need: the Swedish Tax Agency's ID card for everyday identification or the Police's for a national ID card with travel function.
You then need to book an appointment where required and follow the payment instructions. Payment routines may differ between the Swedish Tax Agency and the Police. In some cases, the fee must be paid in advance, while in others it is paid at the time of the visit. Follow the information that applies to your specific application and save the receipt if you receive one.
Bring a valid identification document. If you do not have an approved Swedish identification, in some cases you may need to bring a certifier – that is, a person who can confirm your identity and who themselves has an approved identification. Who can be a certifier and what documents are sufficient depends on your situation.
For new residents, the process can take a little longer. You may need to await decisions on population registration and personal identity number before a Swedish ID card becomes possible. If you have a coordination number instead of a personal identity number, the rules may be different, so do not assume the same solution applies to everyone.
When is a driving license or passport sufficient instead?
If you have a Swedish driving license, you often do not need a separate ID card for everyday matters. The driving license is a common and accepted identification in Sweden. For those who do not drive, an ID card from the Swedish Tax Agency may be the easiest way to obtain a Swedish physical identification.
A Swedish passport also functions as identification, but many want to avoid carrying their passport around town. It is more valuable as a travel document and can be troublesome to replace if lost. Therefore, many choose an ID card for everyday use and keep their passport safely at home.
A foreign passport may be accepted in some contexts, but not everywhere. Banks, digital services, and certain agreements may have their own requirements. For those planning to live in Sweden for a longer period, a Swedish ID document can therefore make many small tasks easier.
Common questions about the cost
Is a national ID card cheaper than a passport?
Yes, normally the national ID card costs less than a Swedish passport. But it does not replace a passport for travel outside the countries that accept a national ID card as a travel document.
Can I pay with cash?
Don't count on it. Swedish authorities often have specific routines for card payments or advance payments. Check the payment information before your visit.
Do I need a Swedish ID card if I have BankID?
No, BankID is an electronic identification and is sufficient for many digital services. But BankID does not always replace physical identification when you need to pick up something, identify yourself in person, or sign certain agreements.
Is the ID card valid for five years even if I move?
The validity period itself is normally five years, but changed personal details, name changes, or other circumstances may mean you need to review whether the document still suits your situation.
An ID card for 400 kronor is often a small expense compared to the time it can save in banking, package pickups, and interactions with Swedish services. Start by considering where you actually need to identify yourself – then it will be easier to choose the right card from the start.