Embassy Of Sweden, Manila

Embassy of Sweden Manila: Visiting Hours, Services, and Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Embassy of Sweden in Manila is a vital diplomatic mission, symbolizing the dynamic relationship between Sweden and the Philippines. Originally established as a Swedish honorary consulate in 1839, the embassy has navigated a storied history—including a brief closure and subsequent reopening in 2016—to become a modern hub for consular services, diplomatic engagement, trade, cultural exchange, and educational collaboration. Located in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, the embassy offers a comprehensive array of services to Swedish nationals, Filipino citizens, and those interested in Swedish-Philippine relations. This guide provides detailed information on the embassy’s history, services, visitor protocols, and travel tips, ensuring a seamless and productive visit.

For official updates and additional details, refer to the Embassy of Sweden in Manila’s website.

Overview of the Embassy and What to Expect
Historical Background
Visiting Information: Hours, Appointments, Accessibility
Embassy Services
Diplomatic, Economic, and Cultural Significance
Visitor Information and Security
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Visitor Tips
References and Further Reading

Overview of the Embassy and What to Expect

Situated in the heart of BGC, Taguig, the Embassy of Sweden Manila acts as a bridge between Sweden and the Philippines, promoting not only consular and diplomatic services but also trade, investment, education, and cultural understanding. Visitors will find a modern, accessible facility with a dedicated staff prepared to address a wide variety of needs, from emergency assistance to business consultation.

For the latest news and updates, stay connected through the embassy’s official website and social media channels.

Historical Background

Early Swedish Presence

1839: The Swedish honorary consulate was established in Manila, reflecting early commercial and diplomatic interest in the region.
Over the decades, the consulate evolved in status and responsibility, eventually becoming an honorary consulate general in 1955.

Formal Diplomatic Relations

1947: Sweden recognized the Republic of the Philippines and formally established diplomatic relations.
1958: Relations were elevated to ambassadorial level, expanding official engagement.

Opening, Closure, and Reopening of the Embassy

1980: The Embassy of Sweden in Manila was officially opened as an independent mission, signifying Sweden’s growing commitment to the Philippines.
2008: The embassy closed due to restructuring, with responsibilities temporarily transferred to the Swedish embassy in Bangkok.
2016: The embassy reopened, marking a new era of revitalized partnership. Ambassador Harald Fries was appointed, followed by Anna Ferry, designated to serve as ambassador beginning January 2025.

Visiting Information: Hours, Appointments, Accessibility

Location and Contact Details

Address: 11th Floor, DelRosarioLaw Centre, 21st Drive corner 20th Drive, Bonifacio Global City, 1630 Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Telephone: +63 2 8 811 7900
Fax: +63 2 8 811 7940
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.swedenabroad.com/manila

Visiting Hours

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Closed on Philippine and Swedish public holidays
By Appointment Only: All visits require a prior appointment; walk-ins are not accommodated.

Booking an Appointment

Appointments should be scheduled via phone, email, or the embassy’s official website.
Early booking is highly recommended due to high demand and security protocols.

Accessibility

The embassy premises are wheelchair accessible, equipped with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Visitors requiring special assistance should notify the embassy in advance.

Embassy Services

Consular Services

For Swedish Nationals: Emergency assistance, document legalization, authentication, and issuance of emergency passports.
Visa and Passport Services: Ordinary passports and Schengen visa applications are processed via the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok. VFS Global centers in Manila and Cebu serve as collection points.
Notarial and Legal Services: Document legalization and notarial acts for Swedish citizens.

Trade and Investment Promotion

Support for Swedish businesses in the Philippines and facilitation of trade missions.
Collaboration with Business Sweden, the Nordic Chamber of Commerce, and the European Chamber of Commerce.

Cultural, Educational, and Political Cooperation

Promotion of Swedish culture, language, and values.
Support for academic exchanges and research partnerships.
Engagement in sustainable development, gender equality, and human rights initiatives.

Diplomatic, Economic, and Cultural Significance

Diplomatic Significance

The embassy is a testament to strong Swedish-Philippine ties, formally established in 1947, and further solidified by mutual embassy reopenings (2016 for Sweden, 2020 for the Philippines).
Sweden’s gender-equal diplomatic corps is reflected in its leadership, with Anna Ferry assuming the ambassadorial post in 2025.

Economic Relations

Sweden is among the Philippines’ top trading partners, with significant bilateral trade and major Swedish companies (e.g., IKEA, Volvo, H&M) investing in the country.
Social security agreements support labor mobility and pension coordination for both Swedes and Filipinos.

Cultural Exchange

The embassy actively celebrates events such as Sweden’s National Day and Pride Month, and supports research, student exchanges, and public diplomacy campaigns.
Honorary Consul Alexander Hey in Cebu extends support and organizes events beyond Metro Manila.

Visitor Information and Security

Security Procedures

All visitors must undergo security screening and present valid identification.
Photography is generally prohibited inside the embassy.
Registration at the building’s reception is required.

Health and Safety

Health protocols (including COVID-19 measures) may be in place. Check the embassy’s website for the latest requirements before visiting.

Languages

Embassy staff are fluent in English, Swedish, and Filipino.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

The embassy’s location in BGC provides access to:

Bonifacio High Street: Retail and dining options.
SM Aura Premier: Major shopping mall.
St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City: Leading hospital.
Hotels: Shangri-La at the Fort, Seda BGC, Ascott BGC.
Transport: Accessible via car, taxi, ride-hailing apps, and BGC Bus; Ayala MRT station is nearby.

These amenities make it convenient for visitors to combine embassy appointments with leisure or business activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the embassy’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, by appointment only.

Q: How do I book an appointment?
A: Contact the embassy by phone, email, or through the website.

Q: Does the embassy process Schengen visas or ordinary passports?
A: No, these are processed by the Embassy of Sweden in Bangkok; VFS Global centers in Manila and Cebu collect applications.

Q: Is the embassy accessible for persons with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible; advance notice is appreciated for special needs.

Q: Are there COVID-19 protocols in place?
A: Protocols may change; consult the embassy’s website for current guidelines.

Q: Are tickets required to visit?
A: No, but appointments are mandatory for all consular services.

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Embassy of Sweden in Manila serves as a cornerstone of Swedish-Philippine relations, fostering diplomatic, economic, and cultural connections. Located in Bonifacio Global City, the embassy offers accessible, secure, and comprehensive services for Swedish nationals, Filipino citizens, and business and cultural partners. To ensure a smooth visit: