Starting January 1, 2026, Sweden will significantly increase financial assistance for foreigners who voluntarily decide to permanently leave the country. One adult applicant can receive up to 350,000 Swedish kronor, which is approximately 32,000 euros. However, most Ukrainians will not be eligible for this program. Visit Ukraine reports this .
The voluntary repatriation program has been in place in Sweden since 1984. Previously, the maximum assistance for an adult was 10,000 kronor, but starting in 2026, it has been increased thirty-fivefold.
Who can receive €32,000 for leaving Sweden in 2026
The assistance is not intended for all foreigners. The applicant must have a relevant temporary or permanent residence permit issued no later than September 12, 2024.
Eligible candidates include:
- refugees and persons under additional protection;
- quota refugees;
- individuals granted permits due to exceptionally difficult life circumstances;
- specific categories of foreigners who have received permits under previous special laws of Sweden.
Under certain conditions, money is also available to family members of the main applicant if they have the relevant permits and live with them.
Participation in the program is voluntary and not related to deportation. A person must plan to permanently settle outside of Sweden and confirm their right to reside in the destination country.
Will €32,000 be paid to Ukrainians in Sweden in 2026
For most Ukrainians, the answer is negative. Ukrainian citizens residing in Sweden under the EU Directive on temporary protection are not eligible for this assistance.
The restriction applies regardless of how long a person has lived in Sweden, whether they work, or if they are registered in the Swedish population register.
At the same time, Ukrainian citizenship alone does not exclude participation in the program. Applications can potentially be submitted by Ukrainians who have obtained refugee status, additional protection, or another program-specific permit no later than September 12, 2024.
Each application is reviewed individually by the Swedish Migration Agency. Therefore, the payment of up to €32,000 should not be viewed as a general funding program for returning Ukrainians home.
Remember, a Ukrainian who recently moved to Sweden shared the challenges she faced after relocating.