Sweden – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Sweden, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Sweden’s assigned country code is 46. To reach a Swedish number from outside the country, callers dial their own international exit prefix (commonly 00 or +), then 46, followed by the area code with its leading zero removed, and finally the local subscriber number. For instance, a Stockholm number would be reached from abroad as: exit prefix + 46 + 8 + the local number — for example, +46-8-1234567.

Swedish area codes — including the initial zero — are two, three, or four digits in length. Larger population centres have shorter codes, which allows for a larger pool of individual subscriber numbers in those areas. The critical thing to remember is that this leading zero is omitted whenever you dial from outside Sweden. Calls made within Sweden, however, always include the full area code with its leading zero.

In 1999, Sweden adopted 00 as its standard international dialling prefix, replacing the former 009 code. To place an international call from a Swedish phone, you dial 00 followed by the destination country code and the number — or use the + symbol if dialling from a mobile handset.

The table below lists area codes for Sweden’s principal cities and the locations most frequented by expats:

Swedish mobile numbers all begin with 07 and carry no geographic area code — they are valid nationwide regardless of which network originally issued them. The 07 prefix range was set aside for wireless services, including mobile telephony, in 1992. As a result, it is impossible to determine a caller’s location from their mobile number alone, which is consistent with how mobile numbering functions across most of Europe.

Who are the major landline providers in Sweden, and how can you contact them?

Telia Company AB generates the highest revenue of any telecoms business in Sweden as of April 2024 and holds the dominant position in the fixed-line market. Telia is the principal telephone operator in the country, having evolved from Televerket, the former state-owned monopoly, following a merger with Finland’s state-owned Sonera. Even after full market liberalisation, Telia’s physical infrastructure forms the backbone of a large portion of Sweden’s fixed-line network.

IP-based telephone access has become the predominant form of fixed telephony subscription in Sweden, with approximately 700,000 IP subscriptions recorded in 2023, though overall fixed telephony subscription numbers have been declining across all categories in recent years. This mirrors a broader Scandinavian pattern in which mobile communications have largely supplanted the traditional landline for day-to-day use — although fixed connections remain relevant for bundled home broadband packages and business telephony.

The primary providers of fixed-line and residential telephone services in Sweden are:

Telia remains the leading fixed-line operator and is most likely to own or manage the physical infrastructure serving your property — this is particularly relevant outside major urban centres. Other providers typically package fixed telephony alongside broadband and television as part of a combined subscription. Always check the relevant provider’s website directly for up-to-date pricing and plan details, as these are subject to frequent change.

For guidance on your consumer rights in relation to fixed-line services, or to submit a complaint about a provider, Sweden’s national telecommunications regulator is Post- och telestyrelsen (PTS). PTS has responsibility for overseeing all electronic communications in Sweden and publishes consumer information on its website.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Sweden, and how can you contact them?

The main mobile network operators in Sweden are Telia, Tele2, Telenor, and Tre, each offering a range of tariff plans suited to different usage patterns and budgets. Sweden’s mobile market is one of the most competitive and technically advanced in Europe. Signal quality is generally strong across urban areas and major transport routes, though remote and heavily forested terrain can result in reduced coverage.

In terms of network reach: Telia is Sweden’s largest mobile operator, with a 4G/LTE network covering 99% of the Swedish population. Tele2 is the second-largest, with 4G/LTE coverage extending to 98% of the population. Telenor is the third major operator, with a 4G network covering 95% of Sweden. According to GSMA Intelligence, 5G represented 39.1% of all mobile connections in Sweden in Q3 2024, rising from 25.8% in Q3 2023.

Beyond the four main network operators, Sweden also has a healthy selection of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). These companies purchase wholesale access to the major networks and sell mobile services to consumers under their own branding. Well-known MVNOs in Sweden include:

• Comviq — owned by Tele2, with a focus on prepaid and the youth segment. Website: comviq.se
• Vimla — an award-winning operator (Most Satisfied Customers 2022, 2023 & 2024) using Telenor’s mobile network. Website: vimla.se
• Fello — awarded Best Mobile Operator 2022, 2023 and 2024, known for fair terms and affordable subscriptions without binding periods; utilises Telia’s network. Website: fello.se
• Hallon — a mobile operator with plans for a range of needs, a subsidiary of Tre, utilising Tre’s nationwide network; offers 5G on all plans and eSIM support. Website: hallon.se
• Halebop — a subsidiary of Telia, known for cheap international calling. Website: halebop.se

While all major operators provide solid nationwide coverage, differences can emerge — particularly in rural regions. If you expect to spend time in sparsely populated or heavily wooded areas, it is advisable to review the coverage maps on each provider’s website before committing to a plan. As of 2024, indicative prepaid plan pricing starts from approximately 100 SEK — always consult providers’ official websites for the latest tariffs, as offers are updated regularly.

How do I get a landline connected in Sweden?

Setting up a fixed-line telephone in Sweden is a reasonably simple undertaking, though it is worth bearing in mind that most providers now deliver home telephone services via a broadband internet connection (VoIP/IP telephony) rather than conventional copper telephone lines. As a result, the process is closely intertwined with arranging your home broadband service.

1. Check availability at your address. Visit the websites of the main providers — Telia, Tele2/Comhem, or Telenor — and use their address-check tools to see which services and connection types are available at your specific property. The type of connection available (fibre, copper, or cable) will determine which providers can serve you.
2. Choose a plan and provider. Most fixed-line telephone services are sold as part of a bundle with broadband. Compare packages on each provider’s website, keeping in mind that prices and promotions change regularly. Check provider sites directly for current tariffs.
3. Gather your identity documents. You will need to present identification — such as a passport or driving licence — along with proof of your address, for example a utility bill or tenancy agreement. If you already hold a Swedish personnummer (personal identity number), having it to hand will help accelerate the registration process considerably.
4. Apply online, by phone, or in store. The majority of providers allow you to complete the entire sign-up process online. Alternatively, you can contact customer service by telephone or visit a physical store. Non-Swedish speakers should note that Telia, Tele2, and Telenor all offer some degree of English-language support through their websites or helplines.
5. Arrange installation if required. Fibre or new cable connections may necessitate a visit from a technician. Installation timescales differ by provider and location — customers in cities can generally expect faster service than those in rural areas. Ask your provider for an estimated installation date when placing your order.
6. Receive and activate your service. For IP-based telephone services running over an existing broadband connection, activation is frequently carried out remotely with no need for an engineer to attend. Your provider will outline the activation procedure at the point of ordering.

Whether you rent or own your home may influence the process. If you are a tenant, the building may already have a fibre or cable connection managed by the landlord or a housing association (bostadsrättsförening). It is worth asking your landlord first — some rental properties in Sweden include broadband, and consequently a phone service, within the monthly rent. For authoritative guidance on your rights as a consumer, consult PTS (Post- och telestyrelsen), Sweden’s national telecoms regulator.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Sweden?

Acquiring a mobile SIM card in Sweden is one of the more straightforward administrative tasks awaiting new arrivals. The most important distinction to understand is the difference between a prepaid (kontantkort) SIM and a postpaid monthly subscription (abonnemang), as the eligibility requirements for each differ considerably.

Getting a prepaid SIM card

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased immediately upon arrival — major operators including Telia have desks at Arlanda and other airports offering prepaid SIMs. They are also available in operator-owned shops throughout cities, as well as in supermarkets, electronics retailers, and newsagents. Starter packs including domestic data and calls begin from around 100 SEK as of 2024 — always check current pricing on the relevant provider’s website before buying.

Provided your handset is unlocked and compatible with the GSM frequencies used in Sweden, you can simply insert a Swedish SIM and be up and running straightaway. For a prepaid SIM, presenting a valid identity document — a passport or national identity card — is typically all that is needed. No local address or personnummer is required for a basic prepaid card, so it is accessible to new arrivals from the moment they land.

Getting a postpaid contract

Signing up for a monthly subscription generally requires a Swedish personnummer — the personal identity number issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) when you register as a resident. Most operators require you to supply your personal identity number and email address in order to register for a subscription, after which you may select a phone number from those available. Without a personnummer, the majority of operators will only offer prepaid options, as their contract systems depend on a credit check linked to your Swedish identity.

This differs somewhat from countries such as Germany or France, where a passport and proof of address are often sufficient to obtain a prepaid contract without a national tax reference number. In Sweden, the personnummer functions as the universal key to nearly all consumer services, mobile contracts included. Once you are registered as a resident and have your personnummer in hand, the subscription sign-up process is broadly comparable to that in any other EU country: choose a plan, complete the application online or in store, and your SIM is typically activated within a day or two.

Prepaid SIMs are a practical solution for those uncertain about the duration of their stay, though bear in mind that prepaid tariffs tend to be more costly than subscription plans over time. Once you have your personnummer, moving to a contract plan is a simple process that can usually be completed online.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Sweden?

Sweden is an exceptionally digitalised society, and telephone billing is almost entirely conducted electronically. Paper invoices are becoming rare, and some providers levy an additional charge for issuing a printed statement — this is worth clarifying when you take out a new service.

Most telephone providers in Sweden offer a variety of payment methods for their services, including direct debit, credit card, and bank transfer. Some providers may also offer the option to pay in person at a physical location. In practice, the methods used most commonly are:

• Autogiro (direct debit): This is the default and most widely recommended approach. You authorise your bank to settle your bill automatically each month, eliminating any risk of late payment. Setting up autogiro is typically done through your provider’s online customer portal.
• Online banking (internetbank): Swedish banks provide bill payment functionality within their online banking platforms. You can make payments using your invoice reference (OCR number) via your bank’s payment service.
• Swish: Some providers accept payment through Swish, Sweden’s widely adopted mobile payment system. Using Swish requires a Swedish bank account and BankID.
• Card payment: Most providers accept debit or credit card payments through their website or app.

Bills are ordinarily issued on a monthly basis. For postpaid mobile and landline contracts, you will receive a monthly invoice — either by email or through your online account — setting out your usage and charges. Prepaid mobile accounts are topped up on demand rather than billed retrospectively — additional data top-ups and monthly bundles are available from around 200 SEK as of 2024. Always confirm current top-up amounts with your provider.

Late payment policies vary between providers, but Swedish consumer legislation generally obliges a provider to issue a reminder notice (påminnelse) before any penalty fee is applied or service is suspended. Late fees are typically modest, but ongoing non-payment will ultimately result in the debt being referred to the Swedish Enforcement Authority (Kronofogdemyndigheten). For questions about consumer rights, the Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket) at konsumentverket.se offers guidance in English.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Sweden as a newcomer?

EU roaming and international calls

As an EU member state, Sweden is covered by EU roaming regulations, meaning your Swedish mobile plan can be used in any EU/EEA country without additional roaming fees, up to the fair-use limits specified by your operator. When evaluating plans, look for one that offers suitable EU and international roaming options for your travel habits; the four main network operators generally provide better roaming terms than MVNOs. If you regularly call abroad, providers such as Halebop and Hallon are noted for competitive international calling rates — always compare current prices on provider websites before deciding.

Number porting

If you already hold a Swedish mobile number and wish to change operator while keeping the same number, the process is well-established and consumer-friendly. Porting is usually initiated through your new provider, and the transfer typically completes within a few working days. Unlike in some countries where number porting can be slow or administratively demanding, Sweden’s system is efficient and straightforward. Note that transferring a foreign mobile number to a Swedish operator is not possible — you will need to take on a new Swedish number.

eSIM availability

Hallon offers eSIM support on all its plans. Telenor provides eSIM for Halebop prepaid packs, including data-only plans. Telia also supports eSIM on compatible devices. If you are arriving with a recent smartphone that supports eSIM technology, check with your chosen provider whether their plans include eSIM activation — this can enable you to get connected the moment you arrive, without needing to wait for a physical SIM card to be delivered.

5G network rollout

5G accounted for 39.1% of all mobile connections in Sweden in Q3 2024, up from 25.8% in Q3 2023, reflecting the pace at which the network is expanding. At present, 5G coverage is concentrated in urban centres, with deployment broadening steadily across the country. All four major operators are in the process of decommissioning their 3G networks, so if you are bringing an older handset that depends on 3G connectivity, it is advisable to check its compatibility before travelling.

BankID and digital identity

A great many Swedish digital services — including managing your mobile account, settling bills, and verifying your identity online — make use of BankID, a mobile digital identity platform linked to your Swedish bank account. Once you have a bank account and personnummer, setting up BankID is strongly advisable. It will make managing all your utility and telephone services considerably more convenient.

Coverage in rural and northern areas

Signal quality can differ between providers, and selecting one with strong coverage in the areas you regularly visit is important. While all major operators offer broad nationwide coverage, gaps can appear in rural settings. Coverage maps are available on each provider’s website, and local knowledge can also be valuable. If you are relocating to northern Sweden — such as Lapland or other thinly populated regions — Telia’s network is generally regarded as the most reliable option for rural connectivity.

Phone etiquette

Swedish communication culture tends towards directness and brevity — it is appreciated if you introduce yourself and state your purpose clearly at the outset of a call. Unsolicited calls are less culturally accepted in Sweden than in some other countries. For dealings with customer service departments, many providers offer chat or email channels that are just as effective and often preferred. SMS and messaging apps are widely used for routine communication.

For all official information on your rights as a telecoms consumer in Sweden, refer to Post- och telestyrelsen (PTS) and the Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket).

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Sweden?

It is not possible to transfer a foreign mobile number to a Swedish operator. Number portability in Sweden is limited to numbers that already exist within the Swedish national numbering plan, so you will need to acquire a new Swedish number. In the meantime, you can keep your foreign SIM active in a dual-SIM handset during the transition, or arrange for your old number to be forwarded to your new Swedish one, subject to your original provider’s policies.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Sweden?

For a prepaid (kontantkort) SIM, a local address is not required — presenting a valid passport or identity card is generally sufficient. For a postpaid monthly contract, you will usually need a Swedish personnummer, which itself requires you to be registered at a Swedish address with Skatteverket. Until you have a personnummer, a prepaid SIM is the most accessible option for new arrivals.

Do I need a personnummer to sign up for a mobile contract?

In most cases, yes. The majority of providers require your Swedish personal identity number when registering for a postpaid subscription, as it is used for identity verification and credit assessment. Without a personnummer, your options will typically be restricted to prepaid products.

How long does it take to get a Swedish mobile number?

A prepaid SIM can be bought and activated on the same day from a shop, airport outlet, or online for eSIM. Once a postpaid contract application has been approved, activation usually takes one to two working days. If a physical SIM is being sent by post, standard delivery time should be factored in on top of that.

Is it easy to switch mobile providers in Sweden?

Yes. Sweden’s number portability system functions smoothly, and moving to a different operator while keeping your existing Swedish mobile number is a simple process. You contact your new provider, request the transfer of your current number, and they handle the rest — the switch is generally completed within a few working days. A number of providers, including Fello and Vimla, actively promote the absence of lock-in periods or exit fees, making it even easier to change.

Are there good deals for international calling from Sweden?

Yes. Several operators and MVNOs are specifically oriented towards customers who make frequent calls abroad. Hallon offers competitive international calling rates, which is a significant consideration for many expats. Halebop is similarly noted for attractive international tariffs. Lyca Mobile, an MVNO active in Sweden, is a popular choice for calls to certain countries at low cost. Always compare current international rates on each provider’s website before committing to a plan.

What should I do if I have a dispute with my telecoms provider in Sweden?

Begin by lodging a formal complaint directly with your provider. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can escalate to the Post- och telestyrelsen (PTS) or seek assistance from the Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket). For disputes relating to billing or contractual terms, the General Complaints Board (Allmänna reklamationsnämnden, ARN) offers free mediation — see arn.se.

Can I use my Swedish SIM card in other EU countries without extra charges?

Yes. EU roaming regulations entitle you to use your Swedish mobile plan — including your data allowance — across any EU/EEA member state at no extra cost, subject to your plan’s fair-use limits. Whether you are travelling to Germany, France, Italy, or any other EU country, your Swedish plan applies as it would at home. Check the fair-use thresholds with your provider, as customers with very high data consumption may incur additional charges once a certain limit is exceeded.