You have residence status as a British citizen or the family member of a British citizen and want to renew your residence status card or permanent residence status card.
Your residence status card is valid for five years. When the period of validity of the card expires, you must book an appointment with the Swedish Migration Agency to renew it.
During your visit, you will be photographed and fingerprinted for a new card. Bring a valid identification document with you.
Book an appointment for your visit
You retain your status even if you do not renew your residence status card. However, having a valid residence status card makes it easier when you are travelling to and from Sweden, as you will usually need to show the card at the border.
Having a valid residence status card will become even more important when the EU's Entry/Exit System is introduced on 12 October 2025. People who can show they have residence status will not be covered by the Entry/Exit System and will not be registered when crossing the border. However, this relies on you being able to prove your status at the border, and the easiest way to do this is by showing a residence status card. The Swedish Migration Agency therefore recommends that you always carry a valid residence status card when you travel.
It costs nothing to renew a residence status card.
If you have proof of your residence status, you can apply for a certificate of permanent residence status when you have been in Sweden for at least five years and met the conditions for right of residence during these years.
You want to apply – Certificate of permanent residence status for British citizens
2025-12-03
The Migration Agency’s drop-in service closes on 1 January
On 1 January, the Swedish Migration Agency’s service centre will close for drop-in visits. If you have any questions about your case, please contact the Swedish Migration Agency by telephone or via My page. For guidance and assistance with your application, or with using the Swedish Migration Agency’s digital services, please visit the National Government Service Centre.
2025-09-11
How you will be affected when extended passports become invalid
We have previously reported that Swedish authorities will not accept extended passports from 1 October 2025. Here we answer frequently asked questions about what this means and who will be affected.
2025-09-03
Important to have a residence status card when the EU's new Entry/Exit System is introduced
On 12 October, the EU's common Entry/Exit System will be introduced. This means that citizens from non-EU countries will be registered when they cross the border into the Schengen area. If you have residence status in Sweden, you don't need to be registered, provided you can show proof of your residence status.
2025-07-23
Extended passports become invalid on 1 October
As of 1 October 2025, Swedish authorities will no longer accept passports that have had their period of validity extended by inserting a stamp or sticker into the passport. If you have such a national passport, you should apply for a new one.