On October 1, 2024, new rules for Swedish citizenship came into effect. The changes aim to make the process fairer while considering both societal and international requirements. These are the key points and how they might affect you.
Requirement for young people to have lived a well-behaved life
One of the most significant changes in the new rules for Swedish citizenship is the requirement for individuals aged 15-21 to have lived a well-behaved life. The requirement is meant to increase safety and requires the applicant to have adhered to Swedish laws and societal norms. The Swedish government argues that this is necessary to prevent individuals with a criminal background from obtaining Swedish citizenship.
However, the new requirement has received some criticism. Some argue that it affects young people negatively since they can fall into a criminal path due to circumstances beyond their control. So is it really fair to impose such requirements on young people and will it facilitate integration into society?
The best interests of the child at the center of the new rules for Swedish citizenship
In the government’s proposal, the best interests of the child are crucial in decisions regarding citizenship for children. This aligns with Sweden’s international commitments, such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It simply means that the rights of the child should always come first. How this will be implemented in practice remains to be seen, especially in decisions where the best interests of the child are weighed against, for example, national security.
New rules for Swedish citizenship for Nordic citizens
For Nordic citizens, the citizenship process will become simpler and more aligned with what applies in other Nordic countries. Previously, Nordic citizens have had a special status, and now the regulations are being modernized to better meet today’s needs. The goal is to make it easier for Nordic citizens to apply for Swedish citizenship, thus maintaining the special relationship between the Nordic countries.
A balance between legal certainty and societal responsibility
The new rules for Swedish citizenship may have significant implications for those submitting an application, especially if the applicant is young or a Nordic citizen. A balance between legal certainty and societal responsibility is the aim of the rules. The Swedish government wants citizenship to not just be a right, but also a responsibility. By imposing requirements for young people to not have commited crimes and considering the best interests of the child, their aim is to create a process that’s both fair and sets clear expectations for those seeking Swedish citizenship. However, if the effects of the changes aligns with that remains to be seen.
