How to Apply for Swedish Citizenship — Step-by-Step Guide 2026
Last updated: 2026-05-15 · Source: Migrationsverket
Here is the complete process — from checking whether you qualify to receiving the decision. The application fee is SEK 1,500 and 75% of adult cases are decided within 56 months.
Verify you meet the requirements
Before applying, confirm you meet all four core requirements:
- ✓ Residency: 8 years (7 years if spouse/partner of a Swedish citizen for 5+ years)
- ✓ Income: SEK 20,850/month gross (SEK 250,200/year)
- ✓ Conduct: no current convictions or unpaid debts
- ✓ Knowledge: ready for the civics test (you will be invited by Migrationsverket)
Gather your documents
You need original documents — copies are not accepted for identity verification.
Standard documents
- → Valid passport or national ID card
- → Swedish personal identity number (personnummer from Skatteverket)
- → Marriage certificate if married (with certified translation if not Swedish/English)
- → Cohabitation certificate if applicable
- → Documents proving name change if applicable
Documents in languages other than Swedish or English must have a certified translation. Read more about documents and certified translation →
Submit the application
You can apply online or via paper form.
Online (recommended)
Via Migrationsverket's “Min sida” portal. Faster and you can track your case status in real time.
Paper (form 316011)
Download from Migrationsverket and send by post. Longer processing time.
Pay the application fee — SEK 1,500
The fee is SEK 1,500 for adults and is paid when you submit the application. The fee is not refunded if the application is rejected. Children under 18 pay a lower fee.
Verify your identity at a Migrationsverket service centre
You must visit a service centre in person with original documents to verify your identity. This cannot be done digitally.
“Du måste kunna styrka din identitet. Det innebär att du ska besöka oss med originaldokument.”— Migrationsverket, May 2026
Wait for the decision — and speed up if needed
Migrationsverket automatically requests data from the Police, Kronofogden, and SÄPO. 75% of adult cases are decided within 56 months.
If you have been waiting at least 6 months, you can request that Migrationsverket make a decision using form 301011 (begäran om att avgöra). Migrationsverket must respond within 4 weeks. Read more about speeding up →
Already have a pending application?
All applications not decided by 6 June 2026 will be assessed under the new, stricter rules. Find out what this means for you.
What happens to my pending application? →Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to apply for Swedish citizenship?
The application fee is SEK 1,500 for adults. It is paid when you submit the application and is not refunded if rejected.
How long does processing take?
75% of adult cases are decided within 56 months (just under 5 years). Processing time depends on whether your application is complete and how long it takes to receive data from the Police, Kronofogden, and SÄPO.
Can I apply online?
Yes, via Migrationsverket's 'Min sida' portal. You still need to visit a service centre in person to verify your identity with original documents.
What documents do I need?
Passport or national ID, Swedish personal identity number, marriage certificate if married, cohabitation documents if applicable. Documents not in Swedish or English require a certified translation.
What happens if my application is incomplete?
Migrationsverket will contact you and request additional documents. If you don't respond in time, the case may be closed. Track your case via Min sida.
Related pages
All Swedish citizenship requirements 2026 →Documents and certified translations →Speed up your application — form 301011 guide →Pending application — what happens on 6 June? →The information on this page is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Rules may change — always verify with Migrationsverket or a qualified lawyer for your specific situation.