Major Changes to Swedish Citizenship & Family Immigration — 6 June 2026

The Swedish Parliament has passed important new rules. Whether you're planning to apply for citizenship or bring family members to Sweden, these changes affect you directly.

How long must you have lived in Sweden?

• General rule: 8 years (previously 5)
• Married/living with a Swedish citizen: 7 years (previously 3)
• Refugees: 7 years (previously 4)
• Nordic citizens or former Swedish citizens: 2 years
• Cannot prove identity: minimum 10 years.

Self-sufficiency requirement (NEW):

You must earn at least SEK ~20,000/month before tax. Income support received for more than 6 months in the past 3 years will disqualify you. Your partner's income, savings, or property do not count.

Swedish language & society knowledge (NEW):

If you are between 16–66 years old, you must prove knowledge of the Swedish language and society — through school grades, SFI course D, or a citizenship test launching in August 2026.

Children must now apply separately.

Children can no longer be included in a parent's application. Each child needs their own application, signed by a parent or legal guardian.

What should you do now?

Check whether you meet the new residency requirement

Gather documents proving stable income

Start preparing for the civics test — it launches in August 2026

Practice for free at sistasteget.se with 383 practice questions based on UHR's official material