Swedish Customs’ guide for online shopping outside the EU
Shopping online is often thought of as smooth and easy. However, if you want to buy something from a country outside the EU, there are lots of things to consider. Here are the answers to seven important questions that can arise before, during or after your purchase. If you know exactly what rules apply to your goods, you will not be surprised by unexpected charges.
What are the charges on my goods?
When you buy online from a country outside the EU, you have to pay certain charges in addition to the price of the goods. Different goods are subject to different charges. On this page, we explain the applicable rules.
What are the charges on my goods?
Can I buy any sort of goods and bring them into Sweden?
If they are coming into Sweden, special rules apply to certain goods. Some goods are subject to restrictions. These require an import permit/authorisation. Some other goods are prohibited. It is illegal to bring these into Sweden.
Can I buy any sort of goods and bring them into Sweden?
How and when do I pay my charges?
It is the transport company that is delivering your goods which works out how much you have to pay in customs duty, VAT and any other taxes. The transport company sends you an invoice (e.g. via ordinary mail or text message).
How and when do I pay my charges?
Do I have to pay to receive a gift?
If you receive a gift sent from a country outside the EU, various rules apply depending on its value and its contents. It is your transport company that works out if you have to pay anything to receive your gift.
Do I have to pay to receive a gift?
Is the country part of the EU?
If you are unsure whether the country you are trading with is an EU Member State or not, you can see a list of all EU Member States or search for a specific country on the website of the EU.
Can I get help to do things correctly?
There are many rules to consider. We understand that it is not always easy to know which rules apply to which goods or when or how you must pay your charges. If you have any questions in this connection, you are always welcome to contact Swedish Customs.