Sweden Proposes Stricter Rules for Citizenship Applicants
Migration Minister Johan Forssell described the reforms as “historic,” emphasizing that the changes aim to make citizenship the culmination of a successful integration process rooted in personal effort and work.
Under the proposed rules, applicants would need to reside in Sweden for eight years, up from the current five. They would also be required to pass a language and knowledge assessment as part of a new citizenship test.
Ludvig Aspling, migration policy spokesperson for the Sweden Democrats, said the reforms significantly raise expectations compared with previous standards. “The parties also want to introduce increased requirements for a careful and honest way of life,” he said.
The proposal further seeks to extend the period after which an applicant’s criminal record no longer affects citizenship eligibility from 10 to 17 years for individuals over the age of 15.
A means-tested financial requirement would also be introduced, requiring applicants to have a monthly income of around 20,000 SEK ($2,239) and to have relied on social assistance for no more than six months over the past three years, with exemptions for students.
Tony Haddou, migration policy spokesperson for the Left Party, criticized the proposal, warning it would make life harder for immigrants. “It is a disgusting view of humanity that creates uncertainty, insecurity and worry, especially when it occurs in combination with the government wanting to tear up permanent residence permits,” Haddou said.
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