Swedish citizenship by naturalization

The process of obtaining Swedish citizenship by naturalization allows those who were not born citizens to become so by meeting qualifications and going through the application procedure. Through naturalization, people can acquire the same rights and obligations as Swedish citizens who were born in the country.

How to get citizenship by naturalization in Sweden

To obtain Swedish citizenship by naturalization, you must meet certain requirements and follow a specific process. Here are the general eligibility criteria for acquiring Swedish citizenship through naturalization:

• At least 18 years of age is required.
• Sweden requires that you hold a valid, ongoing residency permit.
• You must have been legally resident in Sweden for at least 5 years. However, in rare circumstances, such as for refugees or stateless people, this time frame may be shortened.
• You must not have any criminal history.
• You must not be reliant on public assistance and maintain financial stability.
• Language requirement. You must possess rudimentary Swedish communication skills. A variable level of language proficiency may be required depending on your circumstances and the type of residence permit you possess.
• Integration. You should be able to demonstrate your integration into Swedish society, including knowledge of Swedish customs, culture, and society.

Application Process:

1. Fill out the Swedish citizenship application form, which is available online or at the local office of the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket).
2. Collect all the essential paperwork, including identification cards, residency permits, proof of residence in Sweden, and any additional supporting documents that may be needed.
3. Pay the application fee, which may be found on the website of the Migration Agency and is subject to change.
4. Send the Swedish Migration Agency your completed application along with the necessary paperwork, either online or by mail.
5. Your application will be reviewed by the Swedish Migration Agency, which will then decide. It can take a while for processing, but often it takes several months.
6. You will receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony if your application is accepted, at which time you will swear loyalty to Sweden.
7. You’ll get your certificate of Swedish citizenship after the ceremony.

Documentation and Application

You must submit specific documents with your application if you want to become a Swedish citizen through naturalization. Here are a few such documents you might require:

1. Documents of Identification.
2. Evidence of residence.
3. Language proficiency. Swedish language competency documentation may include test results (such as TISUS or SFI D certifications), transcripts attesting to Swedish language course completion, or other official language credentials.
4. Earnings and Employment. Contracts of employment or other records attesting to your employment history in Sweden. Paystubs or income tax returns can be used to prove financial stability.
5. An Arrest Record.
6. Personal Records. Certificate of birth, a marriage license or other document attesting to one’s marital status, divorce or separation papers (if necessary), children’s identity and residency (if applicable) documentation.
7. Swedish Integration and Knowledge. Evidence of your social engagement in Sweden, such as diplomas from civics classes, integration programs, or other similar endeavors. Proof of familiarity with Swedish society, traditions, and culture, can be shown by taking part in cultural activities, joining community organizations, or volunteering.