The Swedish version of this site is authoritative if this translation differs from it.
Why does the citizenship test exist?
The test exists because the Riksdag (Swedish parliament) and the Government have decided that a person becoming a Swedish citizen must be able to show knowledge of Swedish and of Swedish society.
The decision on a knowledge requirement has developed over several years through inquiries, government bills, and parliamentary decisions. The stated purpose is that citizenship should have a clearer meaning, and that a new citizen should have the basic conditions needed to take part in society.
Several other countries have similar requirements. However, the design differs a lot between countries, so comparisons should be made with caution.
Medborgarkoll does not take a position for or against the requirement. We explain what applies.