Sweden Proposes Stricter Citizenship Rules to Enhance Integration and Commitment

The Swedish government has unveiled new proposals to tighten the requirements for obtaining Swedish citizenship, aiming to deepen the connection between citizenship and societal commitment. Migration Minister Johan Forssell, speaking at a press conference with Integration Minister Simona Mohamsson and representatives from the Sweden Democrats and Christian Democrats, emphasized that citizenship should be earned with pride and effort.

Key changes include increasing the residency requirement from five to eight years, while Nordic citizens will maintain a shorter two-year residency period. Applicants must now prove financial self-sufficiency with a minimum monthly income of 20,000 SEK. Additionally, stricter lifestyle standards and knowledge of Swedish language and society will be mandatory. A new two-part citizenship test will be introduced, assessing language proficiency and social knowledge, with exemptions for individuals with specific disabilities.

The reform also includes an extended waiting period after criminal convictions before a person can apply for citizenship. The first citizenship tests under the new regulations are planned for August 2026, with the laws set to take effect on Sweden's National Day, June 6.

Forssell criticized the previous process for allowing citizenship after only five years without any language or societal knowledge requirements. Integration Minister Mohamsson highlighted that the tougher standards reflect a genuine concern for successful integration into Swedish society. Ludvig Aspling, the spokesperson for the Sweden Democrats’ migration policy, noted the increased waiting time after criminal convictions as a crucial part of reinforcing the value of citizenship.

These reforms are framed as historic steps to ensure that Swedish citizenship represents a meaningful achievement tied to commitment, self-sufficiency, and integration, strengthening the bond between individuals and the country.