Sweden passes law lowering age to change legal gender from 18 to 16

Swedes can change their legal gender from the age of 16, after the Swedish parliament passed a law lowering the age.

The law passed with 234 votes in favour and 94 against in Sweden’s parliament.

Sweden was the first country to make gender transition legal – in 1972. But the new law has sparked a debate. For some, lowering the age from 18 to 16 will make an “important difference” but critics say more research is needed.

At present, Swedes need a doctor’s diagnosis of gender dysphoria to be allowed to change their legally recognised gender.

But under this new law – set to come into force in July 2025 the process will be simpler, for example a shorter consultation with a doctor or a psychologist will be enough, along with approval from the National Board of Health and Welfare.

Legally changing a person’s gender will also be possible from the age of 16, although those under 18 will need the approval of their parents or guardian, a doctor and the National Board of Health and Welfare.

The new law will also separate the process of changing legal gender from gender surgery, which will still need a longer assessment and will still only be allowed from the age of 18.