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- | What does citizenship mean?
What does Swedish citizenship mean?
The most tangible proof of citizenship is the Swedish passport and the fact that, as a Swedish citizen, you have an absolute right to stay in Sweden.
The legal definition of citizenship is usually defined as the formal relationship between an individual and a state with regard to rights and obligations.
Swedish citizenship can bring benefits such as:
Sweden permits dual citizenship. Dual citizenship means that you are a citizen in more than one country. If you become a Swedish citizen, you may retain your foreign citizenship if the other country permits it. Likewise, if you are a Swedish citizen and become a citizen of another country, you may keep your Swedish citizenship if the other country permits it.
For the most part, having dual citizenship is uncomplicated. But it can also bring with it certain legal consequences. For example; there are certain countries which do not accept dual citizenship. In these countries, often no allowance is made for a prisoner also being a Swedish citizen; instead they count them only as a citizen in the current country. This means that Sweden has limited capacity to help such people if they get into trouble.
Benefits of Swedish citizenship
Swedish citizenship can bring benefits such as:
- Only Swedish citizens have an absolute right to live and work in the country and only Swedish citizens have the right to vote in the elections for the Swedish Parliament.
- Only Swedish citizens can be elected to the Swedish Parliament.
- Only Swedish citizens may join the police or armed forces. There are also other occupations which are only available to Swedish citizens.
- As a Swedish citizen, you will find it easier if you wish to work in other EU Member States.
Beyond this, in principle, foreign citizens who have a permanent residence permit and who are registered in Sweden have the same rights and obligations as Swedish citizens.
Dual or multiple citizenship
Sweden permits dual citizenship. Dual citizenship means that you are a citizen in more than one country. If you become a Swedish citizen, you may retain your foreign citizenship if the other country permits it. Likewise, if you are a Swedish citizen and become a citizen of another country, you may keep your Swedish citizenship if the other country permits it.
Having dual citizenship may bring with it added security and other advantages. Being able to retain a previous citizenship can make it easier for those thinking of eventually returning to their country of origin. It also makes it possible to visit the old country without having to obtain a visa.
Important to know
For the most part, having dual citizenship is uncomplicated. But it can also bring with it certain legal consequences. For example; there are certain countries which do not accept dual citizenship. In these countries, often no allowance is made for a prisoner also being a Swedish citizen; instead they count them only as a citizen in the current country. This means that Sweden has limited capacity to help such people if they get into trouble.
Sidan senast uppdaterad: 2012-05-08
Migrationsverket
