Guide
Dual citizenship and naturalization in Sweden
Sweden allows dual citizenship, which means naturalization as a Swedish citizen usually does not force you to give up your other passport. Here is what the Swedish nationality law means in practice.
Does Sweden allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Since 2001, Sweden has fully accepted dual citizenship. When you become a Swedish citizen through naturalization, Sweden does not require you to renounce your other citizenship.
But your other country might not
The rules on dual citizenship come from both countries. Some countries automatically strip your original citizenship when you naturalize as Swedish; others let you keep both. Always check the nationality rules where you already hold citizenship before you apply.
What is naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-citizen becomes a citizen through application. In Sweden, naturalization is decided by Migrationsverket under the Swedish Citizenship Act (medborgarskapslagen).
The Swedish nationality law in short
Swedish nationality law is based on descent (jus sanguinis) with the possibility of acquiring citizenship by application, notification, or declaration. Naturalization usually requires proven identity, permanent residence, five years of habitual residence, and an orderly life.
What changes in 2026?
From 2026, adult naturalization applicants will typically also need to pass a Swedish citizenship test (medborgarskapsprovet) and a language test. Dual citizenship itself is not being removed – you can still hold both a Swedish passport and your original one, subject to the rules of that other country.
A calm way to prepare
Use svenskpass to practice for the citizenship test in your own language. Free trial with 10 questions, no card needed.