Sweden – Action Group
The government has announced an unprecedented increase in voluntary return support payments, raising them to 600,000 kronor per family. The government says this move aims to “give a fresh start to those who have not been able to integrate into Swedish society.”
According to the decision, which will take effect in January 2026, each person over 18 will receive 350,000 kronor, while minors will receive 25,000 kronor, with a maximum of 500,000 kronor for couples or partners and 600,000 kronor for a single family.
The government stated that the program includes those with permanent or temporary residence permits who choose to leave Sweden voluntarily and return to their countries of origin or another country where they reside.
Major différences from the previous system
where support was 10,000 kronor for adults and 5,000 kronor for minors, with a maximum of 40,000 kronor per family – an increase of more than 14 times the previous amounts.
Immigration Minister: A Step for Those Who Don’t Feel Comfortable.
Immigration Minister Johan Forssell said the decision offers a chance for a “fresh start” for people who haven’t found their place in Swedish society. He added that the government has granted the Swedish Migration Agency access to certain criminal records to verify applicants’ eligibility and prevent abuse of the program.
Support from the Sweden Democrats.
Ludwig Aspling, the Sweden Democrats’ (SD) spokesperson on migration policy, welcomed the decision, saying it “provides a realistic solution for foreigners who have been unable to integrate and wish to return to their home countries.”
Disagreement with Investigators’ and Municipalities’
Recommendations. The decision comes despite previous warnings from a government investigation that questioned the effectiveness of increased support and pointed to its potential negative impact on integration efforts. Several Swedish municipalities have also refused to cooperate with the government in implementing return programs, arguing that they could increase social tensions, while the government and the SD have accused these municipalities of “obstructing the agreed-upon policy.”