Criminal immigrants who could not be deported can have their social benefits limited

Published 4 November 2024 at 14.27

Domestic. Migration Minister Johan Forssell (M) presented on Monday a new memorandum that proposes a changed order for immigrants who have been sentenced to deportation for crimes but who could not be deported due to temporary obstacles to enforcement.

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Currently, immigrants who are to be deported from Sweden, but who have a temporary obstacle to enforcement – ​​for example risk of torture or the death penalty – are often granted a residence permit.

This also applies if the foreigner is a security risk or has committed a serious crime. This system can delay deportation and provide opportunities for travel within the EU as well as access to grants and other welfare benefits.

– We must have legislation that gives authorities effective tools to carry out deportations as soon as possible, especially in the case of foreigners who constitute threat to the security of the country or have committed serious crimes. The investigation's proposal limits the opportunity for these individuals to establish themselves here and creates room for the authorities to carry out effective return work through, among other things, increased control. I welcome the investigation and look forward to sending out the proposals for referral, says Migration Minister Johan Forssell (M).

In the memorandum it is proposed that the enforcement of deportation orders should be postponed in case of temporary obstruction, instead of granting a residence permit. In addition, foreigners may be required to register with the Swedish Migration Agency or the police and may be prohibited from leaving certain areas while the decision is postponed. Their right to work and access to welfare benefits must also be limited.

The changes to the law are proposed to enter into force on 1 January 2026.