Dual Citizen Club
Countries/Sweden/Citizenship by Descent

Sweden Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025

Claim Sweden citizenship through your Sweden ancestors. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.

88%
Success Rate
12-24 months
Typical Process Time
SEK 1,500-5,000
Total Cost

What is Sweden Citizenship by Descent?

Sweden citizenship by descent allows individuals with Sweden heritage to claim citizenship through their parents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Sweden ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.

Key Benefits of Sweden Citizenship

  • EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
  • Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 191 destinations
  • No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Sweden
  • 1-Generation Eligibility: Up to 1 generation back
  • Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality

Sweden Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown

$301
Minimum (DIY)
$301 - $1,100
Typical Range
$3,100
Maximum (Full Service)

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

Government Application Fee
Required

Official Sweden nationality application fee

Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications

$1 - $0
Document Collection
Required

Birth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries

Sweden civil registry documents and international certificates

$100 - $400
Document Translations
Required

Certified translations of non-Swedish documents

All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators

$150 - $500
Apostille Authentication
Required

Apostille stamps for international document authentication

Required for all foreign documents

$50 - $200
Legal Consultation
Optional

Immigration lawyer assistance with application

Recommended for complex cases

$500 - $2,000

Important Cost Considerations:

  • Sweden allows 1 generation (parents only) for citizenship by descent
  • Processing times typically 12-24 months
  • No language requirement for descent applications
  • Dual citizenship is allowed
  • All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
  • Success rate approximately 88% for complete applications

💡 Money-Saving Tips:

  • Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
  • Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
  • Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
  • Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Check Your Eligibility Now

Sweden Citizenship by Descent Requirements

You Qualify If:

  • You have a Sweden parent
  • Your Sweden ancestor retained their citizenship
  • You can prove the family lineage with official documents
  • You have no serious criminal convictions

You Don't Qualify If:

  • Your Sweden ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
  • You cannot obtain the required official documentation
  • Your Sweden ancestor is more than 1 generation back
  • You have serious criminal convictions

Sweden Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step

1

Verify Sweden Ancestry

Confirm you have Sweden parent who retained citizenship

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Sweden allows up to 1 generation for citizenship by descent

2

Collect Required Documents

Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Sweden lineage

Time: 2-6 months
Cost: €300
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated

3

Cultural Integration

Demonstrate connection to culture

Time: 1-3 months
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: May include interview or cultural knowledge

4

Submit Citizenship Application

Apply at Sweden consulate or in Stockholm

Time: 1-2 weeks
Cost: €250
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country

5

Application Review and Processing

Sweden authorities review application and verify documents

Time: 12-24 months
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand

6

Receive Citizenship Certificate

Receive official Sweden nationality certificate

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application

7

Apply for Sweden Passport

Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport

Time: 4-6 weeks
Cost: €100
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can I trace Sweden ancestry for citizenship?

Sweden allows citizenship by descent for one generation (parents only).

Do I need to speak Swedish to get Sweden citizenship by descent?

No, Sweden does not require language proficiency for citizenship by descent, making the process more accessible.

How much does Sweden citizenship by descent cost?

Total costs typically range from SEK 1,500-5,000, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.

How long does the Sweden citizenship process take?

The process typically takes 12-24 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.

Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Swedish?

Yes, Sweden allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Sweden citizenship.