Sweden has announced tougher rules for people seeking citizenship, marking a major shift in its migration policy.
From June, applicants will face longer residency requirements, income thresholds and mandatory language tests.
However, Swedish officials say the move reflects changing public concerns about integration and security.
Under the new Sweden citizenship rules, most applicants must live in the country for at least eight years.
Previously, five years of residency was enough. In addition, a minimum monthly income of 20,000 Swedish kronor will be required.
Applicants will also need to pass a basic test on the Swedish language and civic knowledge. Furthermore, people with criminal records will face stricter waiting periods before becoming eligible.
As explained by the government, someone who served four years in prison must wait 15 years before applying. The rule will apply whether the crime occurred in Sweden or abroad.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell defended the changes during a press conference.
“These requirements are much tougher than the situation as it is today because currently there are basically no requirements,” Forssell said.
He added that the planned test would not be overly difficult. According to him, it is reasonable for future citizens to know whether Sweden is a monarchy or a republic.
Meanwhile, the income requirement has been set below Sweden’s median wage. Therefore, most people in regular employment are expected to qualify. However, Sweden does not have a fixed national minimum wage, making comparisons complex.
The new Sweden citizenship rules are part of a broader policy tightening. Since 2016, migration laws have gradually been made stricter. That year, around 160,000 asylum seekers arrived in a nation of fewer than 11 million people.
Moreover, the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats have pushed for tougher controls. The party supports the minority coalition government and has linked migration to rising gang-related crime.
National elections are scheduled for September, and migration remains a key issue.
Interestingly, Sweden’s move contrasts with Germany’s recent reforms. Germany reduced its standard residency requirement from eight years to five.
While some see the reforms as necessary for integration, others view them as restrictive.
