Foreigners seeking Swedish citizenship may soon face stricter rules as Sweden aims to tighten some of the requirements. In an interview with Sveriges Radio, Sweden's Migration Minister, Maria Malmer Stenergard, stated that the current requirements need to be strengthened to better motivate foreigners to integrate into society.

The Minister disclosed that one planned change is extending the residency period requirement for Swedish citizenship eligibility. Instead of the current five-year requirement, Sweden intends to mandate that foreigners legally reside in the country for at least eight years before applying for citizenship.

Additionally, in the same interview, Minister Stenergard mentioned that Sweden is considering introducing a mandatory Swedish language test for all aspiring citizens. She emphasized that this requirement aims to ensure that every new citizen is aware of their rights and responsibilities. Although specific details about the language test have not yet been provided, it is expected that the test will be required for individuals between the ages of 16 and 65.

In addition to the language test, Sweden plans to introduce a digital culture test to assess whether foreigners seeking citizenship have the necessary knowledge to live in the country. The Minister also mentioned the introduction of a financial independence requirement, aimed at ensuring that those who wish to become Swedish citizens can support themselves financially.

The authorities' proposal will now be discussed, with a deadline set for September 30, 2024, to decide whether to tighten the citizenship requirements. If approved, the new stricter citizenship rules are expected to take effect on January 1, 2025.