What is residence time?
Residence time is the continuous period you have lived legally in Sweden with the intention to stay. As a general rule 8 years are required for citizenship under the rules that apply from 6 June 2026.
How is residence time calculated?
Residence time is normally counted from the day you received a residence permit and settled in Sweden (or from arrival if the permit was granted after entry). The time should be continuous – long stays abroad can break the period or be deducted.
Stays abroad
Shorter stays abroad, such as holidays, normally do not affect residence time. Stays longer than six weeks in a calendar year should however be stated in the application and may be deducted from residence time.
Exceptions to 8 years
Shorter residence time may apply among others for Nordic citizens and for those married to, in a registered partnership with, or cohabiting with a Swedish citizen. Always check current rules with Migrationsverket.
Always check current rules with Migrationsverket as rules may change.
Important to know
- • Migrationsguiden is a private service and is not affiliated with Migrationsverket (the Swedish Migration Agency) or any other authority.
- • The information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. We make no decisions and do not determine whether an application will be approved.
- • Always check the current rules with Migrationsverket before submitting your application.