Sweden: Parliament Approves New Citizenship Law Requiring Language and Knowledge Tests

On April 29, 2026, the Swedish Parliament voted to amend the Citizenship Act, introducing mandatory language and knowledge tests for citizenship applicants and increasing residency requirements. The new residency requirement of eight years takes effect on June 6, 2026, while the language and knowledge tests will be implemented on October 1, 2027, or earlier if decided by the government. Exceptions to the testing requirements are available for individuals with mental disabilities. The law does not alter residency requirements for Nordic citizens or refugees. Additionally, the government has proposed constitutional amendments to allow the revocation of citizenship in cases involving crimes against the state or fraudulent acquisition of citizenship. These proposals are under public review until June 1, 2026, with potential constitutional changes requiring parliamentary approval before and after the national election on September 13, 2026.