Johann Forssell, Sweden's Minister for Immigration, has outlined proposals that would significantly alter the conditions under which foreigners can acquire Swedish citizenship. This announcement, made by the minority government led by Ulf Kristersson alongside the Sweden Democrats, suggests several new requirements that prospective citizens must meet to prove their integration into Swedish society. Among the most notable changes is the extension of the residency requirement from five years to eight, which aims to ensure that applicants are thoroughly integrated before obtaining citizenship.

In addition to the extended residency, applicants will be required to pass a specific test and demonstrate the ability to support themselves financially. The proposals emphasize the importance of a "respectable lifestyle," which seems to reflect a push towards a more stringent evaluation process for those seeking to become Swedish citizens. Forssell describes these changes as historic, emphasizing the need for citizenship requirements to be closely aligned with an individual's contributions to society, signaling a shift towards more conservative immigration policies within the country.

These changes are slated to take effect on Sweden's National Day, June 6th, indicating a significant political commitment to revising immigration laws in the country. The proposals may have far-reaching implications for non-EU nationals and could spark a broader debate about immigration and integration in Sweden, a nation historically known for its progressive stance on citizenship and immigration issues.