From the year you turn 16 until the end of the year you turn 70, you are part of Sweden's total defence and required to serve in the event of war or the threat of war.

Total defence duty applies to all Swedish citizens living in Sweden or abroad. Total defence duty also applies to foreign nationals residing in Sweden. Total defence duty consists of:

• Military or civil defence service. During a heightened state of alert, you are to proceed immediately to the place you have been designated in your wartime posting.
• General national service. If the Swedish government activates general national service, you are to remain at work or carry out other tasks in support of Sweden's total defence system.