Sweden · Etiquette

Sweden — Cultural Etiquette

Lowest masculinity score globally; very egalitarian and consensus-oriented. Lagom (just enough) ethos — avoid loud, performative behaviour.

Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)

PDI

IDV

MAS

UAI

LTO

IND

Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).

What This Means in Practice

Power Distance

· 31/100

Egalitarian: formal address can come across as cold or distant; first names are usually fine quickly.

Individualism

· 71/100

Highly individualistic: direct, contract-clear, "no" means "no". Negotiation expected to be transactional.

Achievement Orientation

· 5/100

Care-oriented: low ego-display, soft consensus-building style; loud or status-flexing behaviour is read as uncool.

Uncertainty Avoidance

· 29/100

High tolerance for ambiguity: relaxed about timing, terms, and improvisation.

Indulgence

· 78/100

Indulgent culture: comfortable expressing pleasure, leisure, and emotion publicly. Festive atmosphere normal.

Do

✓Be punctual
✓Remove shoes entering a home
✓Practice lagom — moderation in everything

Don't

✗Be loud or boastful
✗Discuss salary or wealth
✗Tip excessively

Quick Reference

Languages: Swedish; English near-universal
Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)
Emergency: 112 (universal)

Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.