Born abroad with Swedish citizenship? You could lose it at 22

Did you know that some Swedish citizens who were born and raised abroad can automatically lose their Swedish citizenship when they turn 22?

This can happen if you:

• were born outside Sweden

• have never lived in Sweden

• have not spent enough time in Sweden to demonstrate a meaningful connection to the country

The Swedish Migration Agency describes this connection as an “affinity with Sweden” — for example, having stayed in Sweden for a longer period or regularly visiting for shorter periods before turning 22.

Who is protected?

You will not lose your Swedish citizenship if losing it would make you stateless.

There is also a special Nordic exception: if you have lived in Denmark, Finland, Iceland or Norway for a total of at least 7 years, you will not lose your Swedish citizenship under this rule.

How can you keep your Swedish citizenship?

If the 22-year rule could apply to you, you can submit an application to retain Swedish citizenship.

 You can apply after turning 18 and before turning 22.

 The application is free of charge.

 If you live abroad, the application is submitted through your nearest Swedish embassy or consulate-general.

If you have lived in Sweden or regularly visited Sweden, you may not need to submit an application at all.

Already turned 22 and lost your Swedish citizenship? There is a separate procedure for regaining Swedish citizenship.

 Have children with Swedish citizenship who are growing up abroad? Save this post and check the rules well before their 22nd birthday.

Source: Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket)