Who is exempt from the tests? Age, grades and disability
Three routes around the tests, how to prove grades and what to do if unsure.
The requirements for knowledge of society and of Swedish do not apply to everyone. The law in force since 6 June 2026 provides three main routes around the tests: age, approved grades and lasting disability. Migrationsverket decides in each case whether you must sit the tests.
Age. The knowledge requirements apply to applicants aged 16 to 67. Anyone under 16 or over 67 at the time of assessment is not covered. Children under 16 included in a parent’s application therefore do not need to take any test. The other requirements – identity, residence, honourable conduct – still apply.
Grades. Approved grades in certain courses can replace the tests. Which courses is set by regulation, not by the law itself, and the list can be updated. Earlier articles here have mentioned SFI D and Swedish as a second language as examples on the language side, and upper secondary civics on the civics side – always check the current list with Migrationsverket before relying on a grade.
How to prove grades. Order a transcript from the school or the municipality’s adult education; many municipalities can send one digitally. It should show the course name and code, the date and that the course was passed. Attach it to your application or submit it when Migrationsverket asks. Foreign grades are not on the list unless the regulation says otherwise.
Disability. Anyone who because of a lasting disability cannot meet the requirements can be exempted. The assessment is individual and requires evidence – usually a medical certificate or equivalent – describing the disability and why it prevents you from taking the test. Temporary problems are not enough. Migrationsverket describes how the assessment is made.
Unsure? Do this: apply as usual, state in the application which exemption you rely on and attach the evidence. Migrationsverket takes a position and calls you to the test only if needed. Meanwhile it is wise to prepare as if you will need to sit the test – a rejected exemption should not leave you unprepared. The civics test costs 2 000 kr per sitting from 2027, so unnecessary retakes are expensive.
A common misconception is that old SFI grades count automatically. The grade must be for a course on the regulation’s list and at the right level. If you are unsure whether your grade is enough: top up with the current course at komvux or plan for the test.