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SVI Fokus
Citizenship

What are the requirements to become a Swedish citizen in 2026?

For citizenship by application you must prove your identity, be 18 or older, hold permanent residence or right of residence, have lived in Sweden long enough (habitual residence) and live an orderly life. Since 6 June 2026 there is also a self-support requirement and a requirement to show knowledge of Swedish and of society.

Updated

Citizenship by application (naturalisation) is assessed individually by Migrationsverket. The most common conditions are:

  • Proven identity — you can show who you are.
  • Being 18 or older (younger people follow separate routes).
  • A permanent residence permit, right of residence or residence status.
  • Habitual residence: having lived in Sweden for the number of years that applies to your group.
  • An orderly and honest life — checked against records from the Tax Agency, police and the Enforcement Authority.
  • A self-support requirement and knowledge of Swedish and of Swedish society (new from 6 June 2026).

How many years of habitual residence you need depends on your group and changed in 2026 — see what changed on 6 June 2026. Debts or crime can push back the earliest date you can be granted citizenship. Check the exact requirements for your situation with Migrationsverket.

Sources

Official details can change. Always confirm what applies to your own case directly with the responsible authority.

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