STOCKHOLM — Sweden is set to introduce stricter requirements for citizenship, significantly extending the time and conditions required to qualify.

Under proposed rules expected to take effect on 6 June 2026, most applicants will need to have lived in Sweden for at least 8 years before applying for citizenship, up from the current 5-year requirement. Certain groups, including refugees and spouses of Swedish citizens, may qualify after 7 years, while Nordic citizens and former Swedish citizens will face shorter residence requirements.

The reforms also introduce a new financial requirement. Applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves through stable income and must not have relied on income support for extended periods in the years leading up to their application. The income threshold is expected to align with a minimum annual level based on income base amounts, reflecting a shift toward financial self-sufficiency as a condition for citizenship.

In addition, Sweden plans to introduce formal language and civics requirements. Applicants aged 16 to 67 will need to demonstrate functional Swedish language skills and knowledge of Swedish society, likely through official tests currently being developed. These tests are expected to be rolled out in stages, with a full system in place by 2027. Until then, alternative qualifications such as Swedish education or recognised language certificates may be accepted.

The government is also tightening conduct requirements. Applicants must demonstrate an “orderly and honourable way of life,” a broader standard than before, which includes not only criminal records but also financial behaviour such as unpaid debts and other indicators of long-term stability. Waiting periods following criminal offences are also expected to increase.

At the same time, simplified routes to citizenship are being reduced. The government proposes phasing out the use of “notification” procedures for most groups, meaning more applicants will need to go through the full application process and meet all requirements.

Changes are also being introduced for children, who will be able to apply for citizenship independently rather than only through a parent’s application. Older children may need to meet their own requirements, including conduct and, in some cases, knowledge criteria.

The proposals form part of a broader shift in Sweden’s migration policy, with recent reforms already tightening rules for work permits and labour immigration. 

Authorities say the changes are intended to strengthen the value of Swedish citizenship and ensure that those granted it are well established in society.