Can I use public transport without a ticket in Sweden?
No — travel without a valid ticket and you get a supplementary charge. It is not a crime and leaves no criminal record, but a civil charge under the Supplementary Charge Act (1977:67). In SL the charge is 1,500 kr since 13 February 2026 (previously 1,200 kr), on top of the fare you should have paid. If you do not pay, the case goes to debt collection and the Enforcement Authority and can bring a payment default note. The charge may not apply if it is excusable due to age, sudden illness, or unfamiliarity with local conditions.
📋 The rules
- Without a valid ticket: a supplementary charge on top of the fare
- SL: 1,500 kr since 13 February 2026
- It is a civil charge, not a crime
- Unpaid charge goes to debt collection and the Enforcement Authority
- Can bring a payment default note
🔓 Exceptions
- The charge may not apply if it is excusable due to age
- Sudden illness or incapacity can be a reason
- Unfamiliarity with local conditions (e.g. a tourist) has been tested in case law
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Supplementary charge of 1,500 kr in SL plus the fare you should have paid. No criminal penalty, but an unpaid charge brings debt-collection and enforcement costs and can bring a payment default note.
📎 Official sources
- Supplementary Charge Act (1977:67) · Riksdagen →
- SL · Ticket inspection →
- Consumer Agency · Public transport →
❓ Frequently asked
What does travelling without a ticket cost in SL?
The supplementary charge is 1,500 kr since 13 February 2026, on top of the fare you should have paid.
Is fare-dodging a crime?
No, it is not a criminal act and leaves no criminal record, but a civil supplementary charge.
What happens if I don't pay the charge?
It goes to debt collection and the Enforcement Authority and can lead to a payment default note.
Can I avoid the charge?
Yes, in some cases — if it is excusable due to age, sudden illness or unfamiliar local conditions.
Does the charge apply to children too?
The charge may not apply to a minor or small child, but it is assessed case by case.
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