Swedish citizenship by birth

Citizenship by birth in Sweden is based on the principle of jus soli, which means that individuals acquire Swedish citizenship by being born on Swedish territory. However, there are certain conditions and exceptions to this rule.

How to get citizenship by birth in Sweden

Here are some key points regarding Swedish citizenship by birth:

1. Parents who are Swedish citizens. If at least one of the child’s parents is a Swedish citizen at the time of the child’s birth, the child will generally acquire Swedish citizenship.
2. Parents who are foreign citizens. If both parents are foreign citizens and the child is born in Sweden, the child will not automatically become a Swedish citizen. However, under certain circumstances, the child may be eligible for Swedish citizenship through a process called “birthright application.” The child must have resided in Sweden for a certain period, usually at least two years, and must continue to reside in Sweden until the age of 18.
3. Stateless children. If a child is born in Sweden and would otherwise be stateless (i.e., not holding any other citizenship), the child may acquire Swedish citizenship.
4. Adoption. Children who are adopted by Swedish citizens automatically acquire Swedish citizenship upon adoption if they were not already Swedish citizens.

Documentation

Here is an overview of the documentation and application process for Swedish citizenship:

1. Birth certificate.
2. Passport and/or identification documents.
3. Residence permit.
4. Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
5. Divorce or death certificates.
6. Parent’s citizenship proof.
7. Language and civics certificates.

Application process

To acquire Swedish citizenship, you need to go through an application process and provide the necessary documentation. Start by obtaining the appropriate application form for Swedish citizenship. You can find the form on the website of the Swedish Migration Agency or request it from their offices.

• Application submission. Complete the application form and submit it along with the required documents to the Swedish Migration Agency. Ensure that you fill out the form accurately and provide all necessary information.
• Application fee. Pay the required application fee. The fee amount may vary, so check the Swedish Migration Agency’s website or contact them directly for the current fee.
• Processing and decision. The Swedish Migration Agency will process your application and make a decision based on the provided information and documents. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several months. You may be contacted for additional information or an interview during the process.
• Notification of decision. Once a decision has been made on your application, you will receive a notification by mail or electronically. If your application is approved, you will be granted Swedish citizenship. If it is rejected, the notification will explain the reasons for the decision.

Dual Citizenship

Sweden generally does not recognize dual citizenship acquired through birth. The country follows the principle of “jus sanguinis,” which means that Swedish citizenship is primarily based on ancestry or descent rather than place of birth. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

If a person is born in Sweden to parents who are citizens of another country and have a legal residence in Sweden, the child may acquire Swedish citizenship at birth in addition to the citizenship of the parents. In this case, the child would have dual citizenship.