Citizenship rules are tightening across Europe, creating a more complex landscape for those seeking a new European nationality. Although obtaining a passport from the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA) offers the right to live and work freely within the bloc, the path to naturalization is becoming increasingly difficult, with several countries introducing stricter requirements in recent years.
Sweden, once known for its relatively relaxed citizenship laws, is poised for significant changes. Currently, applicants need only five years of residency, with no language requirement. This can be reduced to three years for those married to or cohabiting with a Swedish citizen for at least two years, provided they demonstrate adaptation to Swedish life. However, a new law, expected to be approved in April 2026, will extend the residency requirement to eight years, increasing to ten for those unable to prove their identity. The application fee will more than double, rising from approximately €120 to €250. A B1 level of Swedish language proficiency, and a civics test, will become mandatory from June 6th, 2026, though the official tests won’t be available until August 2026 (civics) and October 2027 (language). This retroactive application of the new rules threatens to automatically reject many pending applications.
Germany recently enacted major reforms in June 2024, shortening the residency requirement to five years and allowing dual citizenship – a departure from previous restrictions. Applicants must demonstrate B1 level German proficiency and pass a citizenship test. However, the process still involves substantial paperwork, including proof of financial stability, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Some older applicants, particularly those from the “guest worker” generation, may be exempt from the language and citizenship tests if they can communicate orally.
France is also increasing the hurdles for prospective citizens. While a five-year residency period remains in place for most, it can be reduced to two years for those with postgraduate degrees from French universities. From January 2026, a B2 level of French language proficiency will be required for all applicants, regardless of the basis of their application. A civics test will also be mandatory for those applying based on residency. The government has also tightened income requirements, and the cost of applying for citizenship will rise from €55 to €255 in May 2026. The Local, a news source for expats in France, reports numerous pensioners have been rejected due to the new income rules.
Spain maintains a ten-year residency requirement for most applicants, though citizens of certain countries – including Spanish-American nations, Andorra, the Philippines, and Portugal – can apply after just two years. Refugees can apply after five years. Applicants must also demonstrate at least A2 level Spanish proficiency and pass a citizenship test. Dual nationality is permitted in some cases, but generally requires relinquishing one’s original citizenship.
Italy requires a ten-year residency period for non-EU nationals, with B1 level Italian language proficiency and proof of financial resources also necessary. Exceptions exist for those with Italian parentage or grandparents born in Italy, who may qualify after three years, and for those born in Italy to foreign parents, who can apply before age 19. A referendum in 2025 to reduce the residency requirement to five years failed to pass. Application fees vary, with ancestry-based applications costing €600, while those based on residency or marriage cost €250.
Austria has one of the longest routes to naturalization, requiring ten years of lawful residence, including five years as a settled resident. While some applicants may qualify after six years with B2 German proficiency or through marriage to an Austrian citizen, the country has a low naturalization rate due to strict rules against dual nationality and relatively high fees. Applicants must demonstrate B1 German proficiency, pass a citizenship test, and prove financial self-sufficiency.
Denmark presents some of the toughest requirements in Europe. Applicants need nine years of residency, a B2 level of Danish language proficiency, and must pass a citizenship test. The Danish government is considering introducing interviews for certain applicants. The application fee is currently €800. Processing of citizenship cases has been temporarily paused following a recent general election.
Switzerland, known for its complex administrative processes, requires ten years of residency, with cantonal variations. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the local language (German, French, or Italian) at least at the A2/B1 level, demonstrate integration, and have sufficient financial resources. The process involves federal, cantonal, and communal levels, with local authorities often having the final say. A campaign is underway to reduce the residency period to five years.
Norway, which allows dual citizenship since 2020, requires between five and eight years of residency depending on individual circumstances. Applicants must pass a B1 level Norwegian language exam and a citizenship test. The application fee is approximately €555.
