New Swedish citizenship requirements, including increasing the mandatory residency period from five to eight years, take effect on June 6 with no transitional period. Crucially, Migrationsverket will apply these rules to all cases not yet decided by that date, affecting long-term permit holders who applied under the current five-year standard. Individuals currently waiting for a decision should prepare to meet the new self-sufficiency and language requirements soon.

Link: https://www.migrationsverket.se/en/news-archive/news/2026-05-06-new-rules-for-swedish-citizenship-from-6-june-2026.html

The average rent across Sweden has risen by approximately four percent in 2026, continuing a trend driven by urban housing shortages and negotiated annual adjustments. For expats relying on the second-hand rental market, especially in Stockholm, expect significantly higher costs, often ranging between 10,000 to 16,000 SEK monthly for furnished apartments. This consistent upward pressure reinforces the need for job seekers to factor substantial housing costs into salary expectations.

Link: https://investropa.com/blogs/news/sweden-rents

Commuter train services connecting Stockholm City and Älvsjö, as well as Mälartåg lines south of the city, have been replaced by buses since Wednesday due to track maintenance. Residents commuting or planning Sunday travel on these lines should note that normal train service is scheduled to resume today, Sunday, May 17, at 2:00 PM CEST. This ongoing disruption required alternative planning for weekend errands or travel near key hubs.

Link: https://stockholmsmassan.se/en/nyheter/commuter-train-services-to-alvsjo-suspended-13-17-may/

Keep showing up, keep cheering each other on — and as always, be happy!

The Morning Expat Team