How to Become a Swedish Citizen

This clocktower is in Stockholm, a city in Sweden.

As a Swedish citizen, you have the absolute right to stay, make a living and vote in Sweden. In fact, some occupations in Sweden are only available to those with Swedish citizenship, as opposed to those with only a residence permit. Only Swedish citizens can ascend into Swedish political seats of power and join the police and armed forces. You must be over 18 and have a clean record of good behavior in order to apply for Swedish citizenship.

Instructions

1. Prove your identity with either a passport, an original identity document or a close relative attesting to your identity. Acquire a permanent residence permit from the Migration Board.

2. Be a resident of Sweden for five continuous years. Conditions may apply, such as if you are stateless or a refugee. If you are stateless, you must stay in Sweden for four years. This period is also reduced if you are living with or are married to a Swedish citizen.

3. Apply for an application for Swedish citizenship with the Migration Board. Complete it and send it to the enclosed address on the application. Attach proof of identity documents with your application: passport, identity documents or a civic registration certificate. Your passport will be returned to you after your application has been processed.

4. Note that the waiting period for notification of Swedish citizenship takes up to 3 months. You may even have to wait up to 15 months, depending on the number of applications being processed.

References

• Swedish Migration Board: Requirements for Citizenship
• Swedish Migration Board: Permit to Live in Sweden
• Swedish Migration Board: Time Period in Sweden
• Swedish Migration Board: Submitting an Application
• Sweidish Migration Board: What Does Citizenship Mean?