After going into nearly all of the different processes without a very good idea what to do, I’ve gained some valuable insight as to how to optimize the process. In this case, I’ve compiled a few tips to ensure your citizenship and passport application is as streamlined as possible.

1.) Try to submit your application early in the year

I submitted as soon as I was eligible in January 2017, as it turned out I think this is the best time of year to submit an application. Everyone is settling in after Christmas break, and there are not many public holidays or breaks in the year. Submitting later in the year (say April-June) runs the risk of an additional few months waiting time due to public holidays and summer vacations.

2.) Compile all of your Swedish employment history before hand

One of the longer questions asks about your employment history in Sweden, including salary. Prior to starting the application it’s very helpful to review old tax returns, or make a quick list of any jobs held with their accompanying salary.

3.) Do not forget to print the application

The very last step (and the one I missed) is to download the application to print it out. If you do not download and print the completed application, you must wait up to another 10 days to receive a printed copy back from Migrationsverket.

4.) Wait about one month before requesting your passport back 

I approached the citizenship application under the assumption I would be “grounded” and stay put in Stockholm until I heard back from Migrationsverket. While my plans changed and I ended up needing my passport back, I would generally plan on waiting at least one month before requesting it back. This way you can ensure you application is received and the processing has started.

5.) Book an early passport time and show up early

I booked the earliest time they had available at 9:30. I showed up 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time and checked in. A few minutes later I was out the door, prior to my scheduled time.

6.) “You can smile, but without showing any teeth”

When at the Police station to take the passport photo, the woman told me I could smile, as long as I didn’t show any teeth. I couldn’t help but laugh because the way it was said was so incredibly Swedish, reminded me of all the “toothless” family photos I see of friends, family, etc.