Sweden: Parliament adopted amendment to the Camera Surveillance Act (2018:1200) removing permit requirement for CCTV surveillance

On 12 March 2025, the Swedish Parliament adopted amendments to the Camera Surveillance Act (2018:1200). The revised legislation removes the requirement for businesses and organisations to obtain a permit from the Swedish Authority for Privacy Protection (IMY) to conduct camera surveillance in places accessible to the public. The reform is intended to simplify procedures and reduce administrative burdens while maintaining compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the core provisions of the Camera Surveillance Act. The original Act, which entered into force in August 2018, had introduced a permit-based system aimed at balancing public safety with individuals’ right to privacy. Under the 2025 amendments, which take effect on 1 April 2025, the regulatory focus shifts from prior authorisation to accountability through internal interest assessments and documentation.