Sweden to pay immigrants $34,000 to voluntarily return home from 2026

Sweden has announced plans to offer immigrants as much as 350,000 Swedish kronor (about $34,000) each if they voluntarily return to their countries of origin beginning in 2026. The new policy, part of a wider shift in the country’s migration framework, represents one of the largest financial incentives of its kind in Europe. Under current rules, the Swedish Migration Agency provides returnees with a maximum of SEK 40,000 per family, but the new ceiling will mark a significant increase designed to encourage more voluntary departures. Officials say the measure targets individuals who already have the legal right to reside in Sweden but have found it difficult to integrate. Migration Minister Johan Forssell described the program as a “paradigm shift” in Sweden’s approach to migration, emphasizing that voluntary return should be seen as a serious and attractive option. The government has also pledged to revise regulations to prevent fraud and ensure the grants reach only eligible recipients. The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the expanded incentive could ease pressure on Sweden’s social systems and reduce reliance on forced deportations, while critics warn it risks being misused and may not provide adequate protection for returnees. Humanitarian groups stress that returns must remain voluntary and that reintegration support is vital for those going back to challenging environments. The government is expected to release further details on eligibility criteria, safeguards, and implementation in the coming months. With funding already set aside for return and development cooperation programs through 2028, Sweden’s policy marks a major turn in European migration management and will be closely watched across the region.