Questions, answered · HR and people teams
How many years to get Swedish citizenship?
Reviewed by the Settio team · Updated · Facts checked against the official sources below
Eight years of residence in Sweden as the main rule, from 6 June 2026 (it was five). Seven years for the spouse or partner of a Swedish citizen, for refugees and for people under 21, five years if stateless, and two years for Nordic citizens and former Swedish citizens. Time abroad over six weeks in a year is deducted, and the Swedish Migration Agency's decision time comes on top.
Read the full guideHow Many Years Does It Take to Get Swedish Citizenship? The Eight-Year Rule From 6 June 2026, Who Needs Fewer Years, and When Your Clock StartedIn detail
- The years count from the day of arrival with a permit that counts toward settlement, otherwise from the day of the application for one.
- Years on a study or visitor permit do not count; years on work permits that count toward settlement do.
- More than six weeks abroad in a year: the whole time abroad that year is deducted.
- Applications not decided by 6 June 2026 are judged on the new rules; there are no transitional rules.
- On top of the years: proof of identity, self-support, Swedish and knowledge of Swedish society, and an orderly life.
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Informational only. This guide is not legal advice. Always verify requirements with official government sources before acting. Facts checked 24 October 2026. About this information