Sweden mulls athlete entry curbs; no visa rules change for travellers yet

Sweden is looking into whether it can refuse visas to Russian and Belarusian athletes taking part in international sporting events on Swedish soil, even when they have been cleared to compete under a neutral status. Migration Minister Johan Forssell said the government is analysing the legal basis for such refusals.

Key facts

• Who decides: the Swedish government is examining the legal grounds; any decision on visa restrictions rests with Swedish authorities.
• Who would be affected: Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in international events in Sweden, including those cleared to compete as neutral athletes.
• Status: no visa restrictions have been introduced so far.
• Key upcoming event: the 2027 Nordic World Ski Championships in Falun, Sweden, from 24 February to 7 March 2027.

What is being considered?

Forssell said Sweden is looking at the "legal grounds on which visas could be denied to Russian and Belarusian athletes". He added that the Swedish government strongly opposes allowing athletes from the two countries to take part in international competitions, warning that their presence risks normalising Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Who is affected?

The measure under discussion would target Russian and Belarusian athletes seeking to enter Sweden for international sporting events — including athletes who have been approved by international sports federations to compete under a neutral status. Ordinary travellers are not mentioned in connection with the plan.

When could it take effect?

No start date has been announced and no restrictions are in place. The source notes that the issue is particularly relevant ahead of the 2027 Nordic World Ski Championships, scheduled for Falun from 24 February to 7 March 2027.

What this means for travellers

For Russian and Belarusian athletes planning to compete in Sweden, no rule has changed yet: visa restrictions have not been introduced, and it remains unclear whether Sweden will find legal grounds to deny entry to athletes approved by international sports federations. Athletes with events in Sweden should follow further announcements from Swedish authorities before making travel plans.

The Swedish Ski Association and the Swedish Sports Confederation support the government's position. Whether the plan becomes an enforceable entry rule still depends on the legal review now under way.