As election looms, Sweden's government is paying immigrants to leave

Key Points:

• Sweden, once welcoming to migrants, has drastically cut immigration since 2015 and now offers up to $37,000 to some non-EU foreign-born residents to leave the country as part of a government policy aimed at reducing immigration and crime.
• The scheme, backed by the far-right Sweden Democrats, has seen limited uptake with only 171 people accepting the offer so far, and critics argue it is more symbolic than effective in encouraging voluntary emigration.
• The government has also introduced stricter immigration rules, including mandatory citizenship tests and temporary residency permits requiring renewal every three years, reflecting a tougher stance on integration and migration.
• Immigrant communities and civil rights groups criticize the policy as divisive and anxiety-inducing, with many immigrants expressing a strong desire to stay in Sweden for safety and opportunities.
• The policy shift in Sweden is being closely watched across Europe, where right-wing parties are increasingly advocating for restrictive migration policies and return programs amid rising anti-immigration sentiment.