Conscription
Conscription is crucial for maintaining and developing Sweden’s military capability. It applies to both men and women who are at least 18 years old and Swedish citizens.
The length of the training is between 9 and 15 months. The first part consists of what is called Basic Military Training (GMU), which lasts three months. This is followed by role-specific training lasting up to 12 months. In addition to basic training, conscription also includes refresher training, readiness service, and wartime service.
To be eligible for Basic Military Training (GMU), applicants must meet a number of basic requirements. They must
-have a Swedish citizenship
-be 18 years of age or older at the time of application
-complete GMU before the age of 45.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the basic requirements, some military positions have special requirements for previous training or specific competence. For employment in the Swedish Armed Forces, applicants will also go through a security vetting process.
After being dormant since 2010, parts of the Swedish conscription system were reintroduced in 2014, when those already assigned wartime positions could be called to refresher training. In 2018, conscription was expanded, and now a large number of 18-year-old men and women are annually called up for basic training.