How long does it take to get citizenship in Sweden?

The naturalization process in Sweden takes 5–27 months on average (11.5 months typical). You need 5 years permanent residence before applying.

What are the steps to get Sweden citizenship?

1. Online application (0–1 months). 2. Migrationsverket review (4–24 months). 3. Decision & certificate (0.5–2 months)

You need 5 years permanent residence to be eligible for naturalization in Sweden. No language test currently required (proposed for future).

5 years permanent residence → 3 processing steps → passport

Average Total

11.5mo

Range

5–27mo

Speed Rank

#6 of 19

Residency Req.

5 years permanent residence

1Online application0.5mo avg (0–1 months)

2Migrationsverket review10mo avg (4–24 months)

Background check, identity verification

3Decision & certificate1mo avg (0.5–2 months)

Total processing time

Moderate11.5 months average

No language test currently required (proposed for future). Dual citizenship allowed since 2001.

Average naturalization processing time, all 19 countries. Sweden highlighted.

Source: Migrationsverket.se official processing times · Last updated: 2025-11