Sweden Set to Introduce Stricter Citizenship Rules from June 2026

Key Takeaways

1. A report proposing stricter requirements for obtaining Swedish citizenship has been released.
2. The proposal includes increasing the required residency period from five to eight years.
3. Stricter conditions for maintaining an honest lifestyle and reinstating self-sufficiency requirements are also recommended.

Sweden is considering tightening its citizenship requirements for foreign nationals based on recommendations outlined in a newly released report.

Kirsi Laakso Utvik, a government-appointed investigator, presented the report earlier this week, suggesting significant changes to the current rules for citizenship acquisition, as reported by Schengen.News.

Proposed Changes to Citizenship Rules

According to the Swedish Ministry of Justice, the report recommends extending the residency requirement from five to eight years. This adjustment would allow authorities to gather more detailed information about applicants and evaluate their adherence to Swedish societal norms.

“A requirement for a longer period of residence in Sweden is considered to improve, among other things, the authorities’ ability to obtain information about the applicant and assess his or her lifestyle over time,” the Ministry of Justice stated.

Other key proposals include:

• Honest Lifestyle Requirements: Applicants with a criminal record would face longer waiting periods before becoming eligible for citizenship.
• Self-Sufficiency Standards: Applicants must demonstrate financial independence and not rely on state assistance for more than six months within the three years prior to applying.
• Cultural Knowledge: Candidates would need to show a deeper understanding of Swedish society and culture.

Kirsi Laakso Utvik emphasized the importance of financial independence, stating, “Livelihood implies such a level of income that there is no need to utilize the social welfare system.”

Implementation Timeline and Government Review

The report suggests these changes take effect on June 1, 2026. However, the Swedish government must finalize its decision before implementing the proposed measures.

Migration Minister’s Remarks

Swedish Migration Minister Johan Forssell expressed strong support for the proposed tightening of requirements. He stressed that obtaining Swedish citizenship should reflect effort and a commitment to integration.

“Being granted Swedish citizenship is something you should feel proud of and should be given to people who have made an effort to become part of our society,” Forssell stated.

The proposed changes aim to ensure that applicants contribute positively to Swedish society and uphold its values.