Sweden Offers Cash Incentives for Immigrants to Leave Ahead of Election

Sweden’s government has introduced a controversial programme offering financial incentives to some immigrants who voluntarily leave the country, as migration becomes a major issue ahead of the September 13 general election.

Under the scheme, immigrants from outside the European Union who hold residency permits can receive up to 350,000 Swedish kronor (about $37,000) if they agree to leave Sweden.

The policy is part of the government’s broader efforts to reduce immigration and address concerns over crime and integration. Sweden has undergone a major shift in its migration policy after receiving about 163,000 asylum seekers in 2015. By 2025, the number had fallen by about 96%.

The programme has received strong backing from the Sweden Democrats, a far-right party that supports the government in parliament. The party has also launched advertisements targeting immigrant communities, including Somali residents, encouraging them to consider returning to their countries of origin.

However, the scheme has attracted criticism from opposition parties and civil rights groups, who argue that it is divisive and unlikely to significantly increase voluntary departures.

According to government figures, only 171 people had accepted the financial offer so far in 2026, suggesting limited interest among immigrants.

Many immigrants interviewed in Stockholm said they had no intention of leaving. Elena Ibrahim, a Sudanese immigrant who has lived in Sweden for eight years, said she wanted to remain in the country because she valued the freedom, employment opportunities and quality of life it offered.

Sweden has also introduced stricter immigration requirements. The government has moved away from granting permanent residency automatically and has introduced citizenship tests for applicants. The tests assess applicants’ knowledge of Swedish society, culture and institutions.

With the election approaching, opinion polls indicate a close contest between the governing parties and the centre-left opposition, making immigration and integration important issues in the campaign.

The government says its policies are intended to strengthen integration and place greater responsibilities on immigrants seeking to remain in Sweden, while critics argue that the measures could increase anxiety and division within immigrant communities.