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New citizenship legislation by Sweden, passed by the Riksdag, which took effect on June 6, 2026, represents more than a routine policy adjustment.
It is another signal that Europe is increasingly closing its doors to migrants and tightening the conditions for belonging.
For decades, Sweden stood as one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.
Its liberal social policies, strong welfare system and reputation for tolerance made it attractive to thousands of Africans seeking security, education, employment and a better future. But that image is changing rapidly.
This should serve as yet another big wake-up call for Nigeria, as a leading migration country in Africa.
Under the new rules, the residency requirement for citizenship in Sweden has increased from five years to eight years.
Applicants must also meet higher income thresholds, demonstrate proficiency in the Swedish language, pass civic knowledge tests and maintain spotless legal and financial records.
More controversially, the law will affect not only new applicants but also over 100,000 pending applications awaiting decision after June 6.
In effect, people who began their applications under one legal regime may suddenly find themselves judged by another.
The implications for African migrants, including Nigerians, are profound. This policy shift did not emerge in isolation. It follows earlier proposals by Swedish authorities to pay certain migrants up to $34,000 to voluntarily return to their home countries beginning in 2026.
Together, these measures reflect what Swedish leaders themselves describe as a “paradigm shift” in migration policy.
(Culled from The Guardian Editorial)
