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Dual Citizenship

Information on Sweden's policies regarding holding citizenship in Sweden and another country simultaneously.

Sections

1. Overview of Dual Citizenship in Sweden

Sweden allows dual (or multiple) citizenship, meaning you can be a Swedish citizen while retaining citizenship in another country. This policy reflects Sweden's commitment to global mobility and inclusivity. However, whether you can hold dual citizenship depends on the laws of your other country of citizenship, as some nations do not permit it.

2. National Regulations on Dual Citizenship

Key Points:

  • Legal Basis: The Swedish Citizenship Act (Svensk medborgarskapslag, 2001:82) governs citizenship matters in Sweden. Since July 1, 2001, Sweden has allowed dual or multiple citizenships.
  • No Automatic Loss of Swedish Citizenship: If you acquire another citizenship, you do not lose your Swedish citizenship.
  • Acquiring Swedish Citizenship: Foreign nationals can become Swedish citizens through naturalization, descent, or marriage without renouncing their original citizenship.
  • Children Born to Swedish Parents: A child automatically becomes a Swedish citizen if at least one parent is a Swedish citizen, regardless of where the child is born.

Exceptions:

  • Some countries (e.g., Germany, Japan, China, India) may require you to renounce your Swedish citizenship if you acquire their citizenship or vice versa. Always check the laws of your other country of citizenship.

3. General Costs

The costs associated with dual citizenship in Sweden depend on the process you follow to acquire or confirm Swedish citizenship. Below are the standard fees:

Application Fees:

  • Naturalization (Ansökan om medborgarskap): SEK 1,500 (approximately €130 or $140).
  • Citizenship for Children under 18: SEK 175 (approximately €15 or $16).
  • Certificate of Swedish Citizenship (Medborgarskapsbevis): SEK 250 (approximately €22 or $24).

Additional Costs:

  • Translation of documents (if required): Costs vary depending on the service provider.
  • Apostille or legalization of foreign documents: Costs depend on your home country.
  • Travel expenses for interviews or document submission (if applicable).

4. Standard Procedures for Acquiring Swedish Citizenship

The process for acquiring Swedish citizenship depends on your circumstances. Below are the most common pathways:

A. Citizenship by Naturalization (Ansökan om medborgarskap)

This is the most common route for foreign nationals. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Residency Requirement:
    • 5 years of continuous legal residence in Sweden.
    • 3 years for Nordic citizens (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway).
    • 2 years for stateless persons or refugees.
  2. Good Conduct: You must have no serious criminal record or unpaid debts in Sweden.
  3. Language and Knowledge Requirements (from 2025): A basic knowledge of Swedish language and society will be required (currently under implementation).

Steps:

  1. Gather required documents (passport, residence permit, proof of income, etc.).
  2. Submit your application online via the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) website.
  3. Pay the application fee.
  4. Wait for a decision (processing times vary but can take 6-12 months).

B. Citizenship by Descent (Födelse eller härstamning)

  • If you were born to at least one Swedish parent, you are automatically a Swedish citizen.
  • If you were born abroad and your Swedish parent was also born abroad, you must apply to retain your Swedish citizenship before turning 22.

C. Citizenship for Children

  • Children under 18 can acquire Swedish citizenship if their parents become Swedish citizens or if they are adopted by Swedish citizens.

D. Citizenship by Marriage

  • Marriage to a Swedish citizen does not automatically grant citizenship. However, the residency requirement for naturalization is reduced to 3 years if you have been married and living together for at least 2 years.

5. Country-Specific Considerations

A. Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship

  • Some countries (e.g., India, Japan, Singapore) do not permit dual citizenship. If you are a citizen of such a country, acquiring Swedish citizenship may result in the loss of your original citizenship.
  • Check with your home country’s embassy or consulate for specific rules.

B. Military Service Obligations

  • If you hold dual citizenship, you may be subject to military service obligations in both countries. Sweden does not currently enforce mandatory military service for dual citizens, but this may vary depending on your other country of citizenship.

C. Tax Implications

  • Sweden taxes residents on their worldwide income. If you hold dual citizenship and live in Sweden, you may be subject to double taxation unless there is a tax treaty between Sweden and your other country of citizenship.

D. Travel Considerations

  • Dual citizens can use either passport when traveling, but you must always enter and exit Sweden using your Swedish passport.

6. Benefits of Dual Citizenship in Sweden

  • Freedom of Movement: As a Swedish citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study in any EU/EEA country.
  • Consular Protection: You can access Swedish consular services abroad.
  • Voting Rights: You can vote in Swedish elections and participate in referendums.
  • Social Benefits: You gain access to Sweden’s extensive social welfare system, including healthcare and education.

7. Challenges of Dual Citizenship

  • Conflicting Laws: Dual citizens may face legal conflicts between their two countries of citizenship.
  • Military Service: Some countries may require military service from their citizens, even if they hold dual citizenship.
  • Taxation: Dual citizens may need to navigate complex tax obligations in both countries.

8. Resources and Contacts

9. Final Tips

  • Always check the dual citizenship laws of your other country of citizenship before applying for Swedish citizenship.
  • Keep your documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports) up to date and accessible.
  • Consult a legal expert or immigration advisor if you have complex circumstances, such as multiple citizenships or tax concerns.

If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!