Sweden is one of the highest adopters of digital payments in the world as most of the retail outlets in the country prefer digital payments to cash. While cryptocurrency is not considered legal tender, it is legal to own and use in Sweden.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) classifies cryptocurrencies as a financial asset, meaning individuals and businesses can trade and use them, but they are not officially recognized as currency.
Despite this, more businesses in Sweden are starting to accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for payments. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you may find places where you can spend your crypto on hotels, restaurants, online services, and retail stores.
Some businesses and services accept crypto, such as Travala, Alternative Airlines, Bitrefill, and many others. As these businesses grow, changes in law and technology will decide its future.
S/N | Best places to spend crypto in Sweden | Category |
1 | Alternative Airlines | Travel |
2 | Lot Polish Airlines | Travel |
3 | Travala | Accommodation |
4 | Overstock | Retail store |
5 | Newegg | Retail Store |
6 | ExpressVPN | Private Network |
Travel and Accommodation Services
Source: Freepik
As cryptocurrency becomes more popular, more businesses worldwide are starting to accept digital currencies as a form of payment. This includes the travel and hospitality industry, where some hotels now allow guests to book their stay using Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
In Sweden, while not all hotels accept crypto directly, there are several ways to use digital currencies for accommodation and travel. Some hotels partner with crypto-friendly booking platforms, while others allow payments through crypto debit cards. If you’re a traveler looking to spend your crypto while visiting Sweden, here are some options you may consider
Alternative Airlines
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin
Alternative Airlines is a UK-based travel agency that accepts cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings. They offer a wide range of airlines and routes, including domestic flights within Sweden. This platform provides flexibility for travelers looking to use digital currencies for their travel arrangements.
These travel agencies provide various payment options, including Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, making it convenient for crypto enthusiasts to plan their trips.
Travelers can also utilize crypto debit cards, which allow them to spend their cryptocurrency holdings like traditional currency.
These cards can be used to book flights, accommodations, and other travel-related expenses, providing a seamless experience for those wishing to use digital assets.
Lot Polish Airlines
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin
LOT Polish Airlines accepts cryptocurrency payments, including Bitcoin, for flight bookings. This payment option is available to customers worldwide, including those in Sweden.
To utilize this payment method, Sweden customers can visit LOT’s official website and proceed with the booking process as usual. During the payment stage, selecting the cryptocurrency option will allow for transactions using Bitcoin and potentially other supported cryptocurrencies.
It’s important to note that while LOT Polish Airlines has embraced cryptocurrency payments, this option is not yet widely adopted among European airlines. Therefore, travelers seeking to use digital currencies for flight bookings may find limited options beyond carriers like LOT and airBaltic.
Travala
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Binance Coin (BNB), Tether (USDT), Travala’s native token AVA, Ripple (XRP), Cardano (ADA), Tron (TRX), Litecoin (LTC), Polkadot (DOT), Dai (DAI), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Chainlink (LINK), and Stellar (XLM).
Travala.com is a cryptocurrency-friendly travel booking platform offering a wide range of accommodations in Sweden. Travelers can choose from various lodging options, including hotels, hostels, residences, inns, and aparthotels, across multiple Swedish cities.
Accommodation Options in Sweden via Travala:
- Hostels & Backpacker Accommodations: Over 144 options are available, providing affordable lodging for budget-conscious travelers.
- Residences: More than 12 residences offer a homely environment for extended stays.
- Inns: With over 17 inns, guests can experience traditional Swedish hospitality.
- Aparthotels: Over 50 aparthotels combine the comfort of apartments with hotel services.
City-Specific Accommodations:
- Uppsala: More than 33 hotels are available in Uppsala, Uppsala County.
- Tomelilla: Travelers can find over 5 hotels in Tomelilla, Skåne County.
- Malmö: A variety of aparthotels are available in Malmö, Skåne County
Booking and Payment:
Travala.com supports payments in various cryptocurrencies, allowing travelers to book accommodations in Sweden using digital assets. To explore available options and make a reservation, visit Travala’s Sweden accommodations page.
By utilizing Travala.com, travelers can seamlessly book their preferred accommodations in Sweden while enjoying the flexibility of cryptocurrency payments.
Retail Stores and Outlets
Source: Freepik
Overstock
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin, Ethereum, litecoin, Dogecoin.
Overstock, a prominent U.S.-based online retailer, has been a pioneer in cryptocurrency adoption, accepting Bitcoin since January 2014. Overstock.com offers international shipping to numerous countries, including Sweden.
This enables Swedish customers to shop for products on Overstock’s platform and have them delivered to their addresses in Sweden. Swedish customers can utilize cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, to complete their purchases on Overstock.com. This provides an alternative payment method for those who prefer using digital currencies.
Products shipped to Sweden may be subject to customs duties, taxes, and import regulations. Customers should familiarize themselves with Sweden’s import policies to anticipate any additional charges upon delivery.
Newegg
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Dogecoin
Newegg, a leading tech-focused e-retailer, offers international shipping to various countries, including Sweden, and accepts multiple cryptocurrencies as payment. Newegg offers multiple shipping options for international orders, with transit times typically ranging from 4-7 business days or 2-3 business days, depending on the selected method.
Orders destined for international addresses are first sent to a Newegg forwarding location before proceeding to the final destination. This process is managed through Newegg’s International Shipping Program (NISP). Newegg accepts various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and Shiba Inu, among others.
International shipments to Sweden may be subject to customs duties, taxes, and import regulations. Customers should familiarize themselves with local import policies to anticipate any additional charges upon delivery.
Private Network
Source: Freepik
Express VPN
Cryptocurrency accepted: Bitcoin
ExpressVPN is a reputable VPN service that offers robust privacy and security features, making it a popular choice for users in Sweden. The service accepts various payment methods, including cryptocurrency, providing an added layer of anonymity for subscribers.
ExpressVPN accepts Bitcoin payments through BitPay, allowing users to maintain greater privacy during transactions. Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Delta, Diners Club International, OneCard, and Hipercard are accepted.
ExpressVPN operates servers in Sweden, enabling users to obtain a Swedish IP address for accessing local content securely. The service boasts over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections for Swedish users.
Setting Up ExpressVPN in Sweden:
- Sign Up: Visit the ExpressVPN website and choose a subscription plan.
- Select Payment Method: During checkout, select your preferred payment option, including cryptocurrency via BitPay.
- Download and Install: After payment, download the ExpressVPN app compatible with your device.
- Connect to a Server: Launch the app and connect to a server in your desired location, such as Sweden, to enjoy secure and private browsing.
Tools for Spending Crypto in Sweden
As cryptocurrency adoption grows, spending digital assets in Sweden has become easier. Whether you want to shop, dine, or pay for services, several tools can help you use your crypto seamlessly. Below are some of the best options:
Crypto Debit Cards
Crypto debit cards allow you to spend your digital assets anywhere that accepts regular card payments. These cards convert your crypto into fiat currency at the time of purchase. Some popular options include:
- Crypto.com Visa Card – Supports multiple cryptocurrencies and offers cashback rewards.
- Binance Card – This enables you to spend Bitcoin and other cryptos in Sweden while earning cashback.
- Wirex Card – Provides seamless crypto-to-fiat transactions and cashback benefits.
Crypto Wallets with Payment Features
Certain cryptocurrency wallets enable direct payments to merchants or transfers via QR codes.
- Trust Wallet – Allows users to send crypto instantly using QR codes.
- MetaMask – Supports Ethereum-based payments at stores that accept crypto.
- Ledger Live – A secure hardware wallet with payment capabilities.
Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs allow you to convert crypto into Swedish Krona (SEK) or buy crypto using cash. These machines are available in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö.
- Use platforms like CoinATMRadar to locate nearby Bitcoin ATMs.
Tips on how to spend crypto in Sweden
Sweden is becoming more crypto-friendly, and spending digital currencies is easy. However, there are still some things to keep in mind when using crypto for payments. Here are some useful tips to make your crypto transactions smooth and hassle-free.
Find Crypto-Accepting Businesses
Not all businesses in Sweden accept crypto, so it’s important to check beforehand. Some ways to find places that accept cryptocurrency:
- Use platforms like CoinMap or SpendBitcoins to locate crypto-friendly stores, restaurants, and services.
- Check with Bitrefill or Conisbee to buy gift cards for major retailers using crypto.
- Look for businesses that accept payments through CoinGate or BTCPay Server.
Use a Crypto Debit Card
One of the easiest ways to spend crypto is by using a crypto debit card. These cards let you pay at any store that accepts Visa or Mastercard, converting your crypto into Swedish Krona (SEK) instantly.
Popular options include:
- Crypto.com Visa Card
- Binance Card
- Wirex Card
Be Aware of Transaction Fees
Crypto transactions often come with network fees, which vary depending on the blockchain. To save on fees:
- Use Layer 2 solutions (e.g., Lightning Network for Bitcoin) for cheaper and faster transactions.
- Choose cryptos with lower fees, like Litecoin or Stellar, instead of Bitcoin or Ethereum.
- Avoid sending small amounts frequently, as fees can add up over time.
Understand the Tax Rules
In Sweden, crypto transactions are subject to tax regulations. Every time you sell or spend crypto, it may be considered a taxable event.
- The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) requires you to report capital gains or losses from crypto transactions.
- Keeping track of your transactions using tools like Koinly or CoinTracking can make tax reporting easier.
Challenges of Spending Crypto in Sweden
Sweden is becoming more open to cryptocurrency, but using it for everyday purchases still comes with challenges. If you’re planning to spend your digital assets in Sweden, here are some common obstacles you might face and how to navigate them.
Limited Merchant Adoption
While some businesses accept crypto, it’s still not widely used in Sweden. Most stores, restaurants, and service providers prefer traditional payment methods like Swish, bank cards, or cash.
Price Volatility
Cryptocurrency prices can fluctuate rapidly, making it hard to predict how much you’re actually spending. The value of your crypto could rise or fall within minutes, affecting both buyers and merchants.
High Transaction Fees
Some cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, can have high transaction fees, especially during network congestion. These fees can make small purchases inefficient.
Legal and Tax Uncertainty
The Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) considers spending crypto a taxable event, meaning you might need to report it for capital gains tax. This makes using crypto for daily purchases more complicated.
Irreversibility
Crypto transactions are irreversible, meaning if you send funds to the wrong address or fall victim to a scam, you can’t get your money back. Some businesses might also be untrustworthy.
Conclusion
Sweden is a highly digital-friendly country, and while cryptocurrency is not officially recognized as a currency, it is legal to own and use for transactions. While the number of businesses accepting crypto is still growing, there are several places where you can spend Bitcoin and other digital currencies. From hotels and restaurants to online services and retail stores, Sweden is gradually embracing the future of digital payments.
If you’re looking to use crypto in Sweden, it’s best to check with businesses in advance or use crypto payment platforms that help facilitate transactions. As adoption increases, more opportunities will arise for crypto enthusiasts to enjoy seamless digital payments. Keep an eye on updates and new businesses joining the crypto-friendly movement, making Sweden an even more convenient place for cryptocurrency users.
FAQs
Yes, some businesses in Sweden accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. You can use crypto at select restaurants, hotels, and online stores.
Using a crypto debit card (e.g., Crypto.com, Binance Card, or Wirex) allows you to spend crypto anywhere that accepts Visa or Mastercard. This is the most convenient option for daily purchases.
Some taxi services in Stockholm accept Bitcoin payments. However, public transportation still mainly requires SEK via Swish, cards, or cash.
Websites like CoinMap and SpendBitcoins help locate crypto-friendly businesses. You can also buy gift cards with crypto from Bitrefill to shop at major retailers.
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