Migration law / Citizenship

Swedish citizenship without permanent residence – the new 2026 exemptions

From 12 July 2026, certain holders of temporary permits may qualify for an exemption from the permanent residence requirement. Other citizenship requirements remain.

An exemption from one requirement

From 12 July 2026, some people with temporary residence permits may apply for Swedish citizenship without holding a permanent permit. The change concerns that particular requirement. It is neither a general entitlement to citizenship nor an assurance that an application will be approved.

The basis of the permit matters

According to the Swedish Migration Agency, the exemption can cover certain people with long-term resident status in Sweden, refugees and persons in need of subsidiary protection. It can also cover permits based on exceptionally distressing circumstances, certain persistent impediments to enforcement and qualifying family members. The actual basis recorded in the decision needs to be checked.

Prospects of continued residence

A central condition is well-founded prospects of being granted a long-term residence permit. This concerns the prospect of continued permission to stay, rather than a guarantee. The Agency makes an individual assessment. Its information also identifies an exception to this particular condition after at least ten years of residence, where the other citizenship requirements are met.

The June requirements remain relevant

The exemption does not remove other citizenship requirements. The rules introduced in June concerning residence, conduct, self-support and knowledge may still be relevant. Belonging to a listed group is therefore the start of the assessment, not its conclusion.

Consider the requirements together

The basis of the permit and the other citizenship conditions need to be reviewed together. Papinian offers support with examining decisions and relevant documentation and clarifying questions before an application. Contact us to discuss your circumstances and the appropriate scope of an individual review.

Sources

This article provides general information and does not replace an individual assessment of a specific case.

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