Sweden Plans to Revoke Permanent Residence for Certain Immigrant Groups
Sweden Proposes Ending Permanent Residence Permits for Certain Immigrant Groups
A recent government-commissioned investigation in Sweden has proposed that specific immigrant groups should be granted only temporary residence permits, rather than permanent ones. The move, aimed at tightening immigration policies, would impact refugees, individuals in alternative need of protection, long-term EU residents, quota refugees, and those granted residence on exceptionally distressing humanitarian grounds, The Local reports.
Current Residency Rules in Sweden
Under the existing system, non-EU nationals who have legally resided in Sweden for five years—either through residence permits or on other legal grounds—are eligible to apply for long-term EU resident status. This status grants them:
- A renewable EU residence permit valid for five years
- Simplified mobility within the EU for work, study, or business purposes
However, the new proposal aims to eliminate permanent residence eligibility for certain groups, including UNHCR-selected quota refugees, who are currently granted permanent residence upon arrival in Sweden.
Humanitarian Concerns Raised
Karin Ödquist Drackner of the Red Cross warned that these proposed changes could have serious emotional and social consequences for affected immigrants. She told Sverige Radio that uncertainty over their future in Sweden could lead to increased anxiety and instability, especially among already vulnerable individuals.
Additional Reforms: Citizenship to Require More Effort
Sweden’s Migration Minister, Johan Forssell, also announced plans to make it more demanding for immigrants to obtain Swedish citizenship. The government aims to encourage greater integration efforts from those seeking to become citizens. However, critics argue that this would result in a system where citizenship becomes harder to obtain than permanent residency, which may deter long-term integration.
Parliamentary Approval Still Pending
These policy changes are not yet in effect. They must first be debated and approved in the Swedish Parliament before implementation.
It is worth noting that in January 2025, Swedish authorities revealed a broader plan to tighten citizenship criteria, with new rules expected to come into force in June 2026.
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