Civics and the citizenship test

What is the civics requirement?

You should have basic knowledge of how Sweden works: democracy, rights, obligations, working life, and everyday life. The requirement was made clearer in the citizenship rules effective from 2026.

The citizenship test at UHR

The test assesses both Swedish and civics. It is administered by the Swedish Council for Higher Education (Universitets- och högskolerådet, UHR). The result can be used as supporting evidence in a citizenship application if you achieve a pass.

What the test covers

Questions may cover democracy, elections, fundamental laws, the welfare system, the labour market, school, and everyday rules. It is about practical understanding, not detailed knowledge of legal provisions.

Study materials

UHR publishes materials to help you prepare. Municipalities offer civic orientation (samhällsorientering, SO) for new immigrants. The book Om Sverige and similar resources are also useful.

Alternative ways to meet the requirement

Passing grades in civics from Swedish school or equivalent may sometimes be accepted. The rules are updated – check Migrationsverket's list of approved documentation.

Common mistakes

Preparing only the language part of the test, missing registration deadlines, or submitting test results without checking that they are accepted under current rules.

Plan ahead

Book the test well in advance of when you plan to submit your citizenship application. Processing at Migrationsverket is not affected by test booking, but without approved documentation the application cannot be complete.

İlgili sorular

• → Toplum bilgisi sınavı gerekli mi?
• → Vatandaşlık için dil sınavı gerekli mi?

Sık sorulan sorular

İlgili rehberler

• Swedish citizenship – complete guide
• Language requirements for Swedish citizenship