🔒 End of “Track Change” for Asylum Seekers
Effective April 1, 2025, the Swedish Parliament abolished the “track change” option. Previously, rejected asylum seekers could apply for a work permit without leaving Sweden. Under the new rules, individuals must leave the EU/Schengen area to apply for a work permit, and extensions of existing work permits obtained through track change are no longer possible.
⏳ Changes to Deportation Limitation Periods
The statutory limitation period for deportation decisions has been revised. Previously, such decisions expired four years after issuance. Now, they remain valid for five years from the date the individual leaves Sweden. Additionally, the Swedish Migration Agency can impose longer re-entry bans for those who fail to depart voluntarily by the specified deadline.
🛂 Stricter Citizenship Requirements
The government is proposing to amend the constitution to allow revocation of citizenship obtained through fraudulent means or if individuals are deemed threats to national security. This would primarily affect dual nationals involved in serious crimes like espionage or treason. The proposal requires parliamentary approval and a general election before enactment. Reuters
💼 Increased Salary Threshold for Work Permits
A bill is expected to raise the salary threshold for work permits to the median wage, currently 35,600 SEK per month. This change aims to attract highly skilled labor but has faced criticism from business groups concerned about potential impacts on foreign expertise recruitment.
👨👩👧👦 Tightened Family Reunification Policies
The government is reviewing family reunification rules, considering stricter maintenance requirements and possibly limiting eligible family members. There’s also a proposal to require full health insurance coverage and increased use of DNA testing to verify familial relationships.
🧾 Emphasis on Labor Immigration
Sweden is shifting focus from asylum-based to labor-based immigration, aiming to attract foreign experts, researchers, and talents to strengthen competitiveness and research status. Reduced asylum immigration is seen as a way to improve integration conditions.
These changes reflect Sweden’s move towards more controlled immigration, emphasizing labor market needs and national security. For individuals affected by these policies, it’s crucial to stay informed and consult official resources or legal experts for guidance.