New rules for Swedish citizenship
Effective 1 October, changes are being introduced to the rules for citizenship of Sweden.
Changes for young people who want to become Swedish citizens
Young people and young adults apply for Swedish citizenship through so-called “notification”. In order for a person who has reached the age of 15 but who is not yet 21 to be able to obtain Swedish citizenship from 1 October 2024, the applicant must not:
- be reasonably suspected of a crime of a more serious nature;
- have been convicted of more serious crimes or repeatedly engaged in criminal activities;
- pose a threat to Sweden’s national security or public safety;
- be associated with groups or organisations that commit abuse against other people.
It must also be made probable that the applicant’s identity is correct.
The law states that the Swedish Migration Agency must take into account the applicant’s circumstances at the time of the decision, i.e., also those that occur after the notification of citizenship has been submitted.
The new requirements do not apply to stateless young people born in Sweden, nor to Nordic citizens.
Changes for Nordic citizens who want to become Swedish citizens
Until now, Nordic citizens have been able to acquire Swedish citizenship by notification, via their local county administrative board. From 1 October 2024, these applicants will need to contact the Swedish Migration Agency, which will take over responsibility for all citizenship cases on that date.
Cases that Nordic citizens have submitted to their relevant county administrative board before 1 October 2024 will not be transferred to the Swedish Migration Agency but will instead be handled by the county administrative board.
Changes for applicants who apply for release from citizenship
At the same time as the requirements for obtaining Swedish citizenship are increasing, the protection of citizenship is also being strengthened. From 1 October 2024, a person can be denied release from their Swedish citizenship if there is reason to suspect that the applicant does not wish to be released.
For children, a provision is being introduced stating that a child shall not be released from their Swedish citizenship if this would be contrary to the best interests of the child. The child’s views will be taken into account in the assessment. Children aged 12 and older must also consent to their release from citizenship.
A new provision is also introduced that makes it possible to revoke a decision on release from Swedish citizenship if it appears that there were impediments to the release, for example that the release was made contrary to the applicant’s will or the best interests of the child. This applies to decisions on release made after 1 October 2024.
Fee increase
In connection with the introduction of the amendments to the law, the fee for submitting a notification of citizenship will also be increased. The new fee is SEK 475.
For more information on these changes to Swedish citizenship, please contact the Global Immigration team at Smith Stone Walters.
