No, owning a monkey in Sweden is prohibited under the 2026 amendments to the Animal Welfare Act (Djurskyddslagen), which classify non-human primates as “high-risk species” requiring special permits. The Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket) enforces these restrictions, aligning with EU biodiversity directives to mitigate zoonotic disease risks and animal welfare concerns.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Sweden
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Prohibition under the Animal Welfare Act (2026): Non-human primates are explicitly banned without exception, reflecting Sweden’s alignment with EU-wide restrictions on private exotic pet ownership. Permits for research or conservation are issued only under exceptional circumstances, with prior approval from the Swedish Board of Agriculture.
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CITES Compliance: Any potential import or trade of primates—even for licensed facilities—requires CITES documentation, though Sweden’s domestic ban supersedes these provisions for private ownership. Violations may result in confiscation and penalties under the Environmental Code (Miljöbalken).
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Local Enforcement: Municipal animal welfare officers (djurskyddsinspektörer) conduct inspections, and non-compliance may trigger legal action under the Penal Code (Brottsbalken), including fines up to SEK 100,000 or imprisonment for severe violations.