The Swedish government has announced its plans to tighten the requirements for obtaining citizenship. This decision follows a government investigation that recommended establishing “decent living” as a fundamental condition for citizenship. Moreover, the residency period will be extended from the current five years to eight years
According to a government investigation requested in 2023, individuals seeking citizenship must pass a test on Swedish society and values, along with a language exam. Johan Forssell, the Minister of Migration, stated on Instagram, “Citizenship must be earned, not granted unconditionally.”
During a press conference, Forssell emphasized that citizenship has enabled individuals from diverse cultures to come together under a shared Swedish identity. He remarked, “This is especially crucial now, as Sweden has welcomed hundreds of thousands of people from different parts of the world in recent years.”
Forssell also emphasized that the government is unequivocal about Swedish values, especially regarding gender equality and the principle that no family is above the law. He stated, “Girls and boys have the right to swim and play football. If you do not accept this, then Sweden is not the right country for you.”
Kirsi Laxo-Otvik, who led the investigation team, stated that obtaining citizenship will become more difficult for individuals convicted of crimes or misdemeanors, as well as for those with outstanding debts. The government plans to draft a bill to formalize the investigation’s recommendations after consulting with the relevant authorities. If approved, the new law is expected to take effect in June 2026.
The Civil Rights Defenders has criticized the government’s proposal. According to AFP, Stofer stated, “Research shows that tightening citizenship requirements does not enhance incentives for integration; instead, it contributes to the exclusion of an increasing number of people who have been in the country for an extended period without access to fundamental citizenship rights.”
Since 2022, the center-right government led by Ulf Kristersson has implemented strict restrictions on immigration and asylum. It has tightened the criteria for family reunification and is now granting residence permits only to asylum seekers. Furthermore, the government has increased the income requirements for non-EU nationals applying for work visas.
Sweden was previously considered one of the most welcoming countries for immigrants during the migration crisis in 2015, receiving more than 163,000 people. However, Swedish authorities later worked to tighten asylum and immigration policies. The number of asylum seekers granted residence permits has gradually declined over the past decade, reaching its lowest level in 2024. According to official figures, only 6,250 asylum seekers were granted residence permits last year.
