Swedish Citizenship

How to become Swedish

Swedish Citizenship

If you have been residing in Sweden for a sufficient length of time, you will be able to apply for Swedish nationality. Here is what you need to know, if you want to become a Swede.

If you wish to become Swedish you will need to apply for naturalisation. To obtain Swedish citizenship you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have permanent right of residence in Sweden.
  • Have lived in Sweden for at least five consecutive years or two if you are a Nordic citizen.
  • Have no criminal record.

The requirements can vary according to your circumstances. Children under 15 of a person obtaining Swedish citizenship can also obtain it by simple notification. To apply you will need to prove your identity using an original identity document from your home country. You will also need to fill in the application forms (which are only available in Swedish) and pay a fee of SEK 1,500. Application forms are available only in Swedish on the Swedish Migration Board’s website .

Dual nationality

Sweden legislation allows for dual or multiple nationalities. A Swede who has obtained a foreign nationality will not lose his original nationality. Similarly foreigners seeking Swedish citizenship will not lose their previous nationality, except if their country of origin does not recognise dual citizenship.

For more information have a look at the Swedish Migration Board’s section  on Swedish Citizenship.

Further reading

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Other comments

  • Mete Han, 24 July 2012 Reply

    years that counts

    well partially true, in order to get citizenship the consequtive five years starts from the first day of permanent residence permit. So any time that was spent with student residence permit or any kind of temporary residence permit will not count.