Background & Purpose

The government wants to strengthen the legal and symbolic value of Swedish citizenship and improve protection for vulnerable individuals.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed stricter rules for acquiring citizenship through notification, meaning individuals linked to crime or security threats are blocked. It also proposed easier ways to deny requests to renounce citizenship to protect vulnerable children and adults.

The Decision

After a vote where 257 MPs said yes and 18 voted no, the Swedish parliament approved the stricter rules for citizenship.

Does this affect you?

  • Applicants for citizenship: Must meet stricter requirements regarding criminal history and security checks to be approved.
  • Vulnerable children and adults: Receive stronger legal protection when requests for renouncing citizenship are handled.

In Practice

  • Persons who are suspected of crimes or constitute security threats can no longer get Swedish citizenship through notification.
  • Individuals with links to groups that threaten public safety are blocked from citizenship.
  • The new rules apply generally to everyone aged 15 and older, with certain exceptions.
  • Requests to be released from Swedish citizenship can be denied more easily to protect vulnerable people.