In a significant shift in immigration policy, Sweden has announced plans to offer up to $34,000 to immigrants who voluntarily return to their home countries. This payment, which will be available starting in 2026, is part of a broader effort to reduce immigration and address integration challenges that have persisted for decades.
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The move comes as Sweden grapples with difficulties in integrating many of its newcomers. Since the 1990s, the country has been known as a humanitarian superpower, providing refuge for migrants from war-torn regions such as Syria, Afghanistan, Somalia, and Iraq.
However, the integration of these groups has proven difficult, with many relying on state benefits due to low income or long-term unemployment.
Currently, the financial support for those willing to return home is capped at 10,000 Swedish kronor per adult, with a maximum family allowance of 40,000 kronor. The new policy, however, increases the individual payout significantly to 350,000 kronor (about $34,000).
The Swedish government, backed by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, hopes this increase will encourage more immigrants to take advantage of the program. Officials argue that making the incentive more visible and financially appealing could lead to more people opting for voluntary return.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell emphasized that this marks a “paradigm shift” in Sweden’s migration policy. In contrast to Sweden’s historical openness to immigrants, the new approach is seen as an attempt to reduce the number of new arrivals while offering financial assistance to those who wish to leave. The offer is primarily targeted at immigrants struggling to secure employment or relying on welfare benefits.
With this move, Sweden joins other European countries offering similar incentives, though the $34,000 figure is among the highest. For comparison, Denmark provides up to $15,000 for voluntary returnees, while countries like Norway and Germany offer significantly lower amounts.
As this policy rolls out in the coming years, it will likely shape both Sweden’s domestic social landscape and its international relations, as other nations observe the impact of such a high financial offer for voluntary repatriation.
