Sweden moves to tighten citizenship rules

BRUSSELS

The Swedish government proposed stricter requirements for people seeking Swedish citizenship, including longer residency, a language test, financial self-sufficiency, and a requirement to maintain an "honest lifestyle," officials said Monday.

Migration Minister Johan Forssell described the changes as "historic," noting that the reforms are intended to make citizenship the culmination of an integration process based on personal effort and work, broadcaster SVT reported.

Under the proposals, applicants would need to have lived in Sweden for eight years instead of the current five.

Language and knowledge requirements will also be introduced and assessed through a citizenship test.

Ludvig Aspling, migration policy spokesperson for the Sweden Democrats, said the new rules would significantly increase expectations compared to previous investigations.

"The parties also want to introduce increased requirements for a careful and honest way of life," Aspling said.

The proposal also seeks to extend the period after which an applicant's criminal record no longer affects their citizenship eligibility from 10 to 17 years for individuals over the age of 15.

In addition, a means-tested financial requirement would be introduced.

Applicants would need a monthly income of around 20,000 SEK ($2,239) and should not have relied on social assistance for more than six months in the past three years, with exemptions for students.

Tony Haddou, another migration policy spokesperson for the Left Party, criticized the plan, saying it would make life more difficult 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.

The proposals are expected to come into force on Sweden's National Day, June 6.