Sweden Introduces Tougher Citizenship Rules: Mandatory ID Checks & Security Screening

As of June 2025, all applicants for Swedish citizenship must appear in person for a mandatory ID screening. The move comes amid growing concerns over national security and identity fraud.

Sweden has unveiled new immigration rules requiring all citizenship applicants — including those who already applied — to undergo an in-person identity verification at the Swedish Migration Agency. The government says the changes aim to better vet applicants and protect national interests.

Stricter Identity Requirements for New & Pending Applicants

According to Sveriges Radio, the Swedish Migration Agency now sends letters to applicants instructing them to schedule an in-person visit for biometric and ID screening. Even pending applications are affected.

“Applicants must now provide more data to help us make informed decisions,” said the Migration Board.

Authorities emphasize that the move will minimize fraud and prevent individuals from abusing the process with false documentation or misrepresented identities.

Security Measures Target Threat Actors & Extremists

Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer cited the growing presence of violent extremism, foreign espionage, and organized crime as reasons for the crackdown.

“Sweden cannot risk granting citizenship to people who seek to harm our society,” he stated.

Past proposals also included revoking citizenship from dual nationals involved in terrorism or national security offenses.

Pan-European Trend: Citizenship Screening on the Rise

Sweden joins other European countries, such as Denmark, in pushing for stronger screening of citizenship applicants.

Danish Immigration Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek has pushed for ideological vetting, especially targeting candidates unwilling to accept democratic values:

“Totalitarian attitudes among some groups are unacceptable — we must draw a clear line.”

Conclusion

Sweden’s new ID checks represent a major policy shift — blending immigration control with national security. As Europe tightens its borders, expect more countries to follow suit in redefining the path to citizenship.