Children and citizenship

From 6 June 2026, children can no longer be included in a parent's application. The child must instead submit their own application, signed by their guardian — via the e-service or a special application form.

As a main rule, the child needs to be able to prove their identity and hold a permanent residence permit. How long the child must have lived in Sweden depends on age and citizenship: three years for children under 15 (two years if the child is stateless), five years for children over 15, and two years for Nordic citizens regardless of age.

From age 15, requirements for good conduct apply, and from age 16 requirements for knowledge of Swedish and Swedish society also apply. Children do not, however, need to meet the self-support requirement.