The Swedish government has announced an increase in financial incentives for immigrants who voluntarily choose to return to their home countries.
The increased grant which has been in existence since 1984 is relatively unknown, small, and used by few people in 2026 made available for all.
The Swedish government moving ahead with the plan despite a recent government-appointed probe advising against it has encouraged the masses to migrate back to their home country.
The investigation had recommended against a significant increase in the grant, warning that the expected benefits did not justify the potential costs.
The report argued that while the increased financial support could encourage more migrants to return, the economic burden on the state could outweigh the anticipated outcomes.
Migration Minister Johan Forssell at a press conference noted that in 2026, migrants will be eligible for up to 350,000 Swedish kronor (approximately $34,000) under the new policy, a significant rise from the current maximum of 40,000 kronor per family.
The decision is part of the right-wing government’s broader agenda, which is supported by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, to tighten migration policies.
“We are in the midst of a paradigm shift in our migration policy,” he said.
Currently, Sweden offers up to 10,000 kronor per adult and 5,000 kronor per child for voluntary return, but the program has seen limited use.
