Swedish government entices Nigerians and other nationals with N55.9 million to leave the country

In a move aimed at encouraging immigrants to leave the country, the Swedish government has announced a significant increase in grants for those who choose to return to their home countries.

Starting in 2026, immigrants who return voluntarily will be eligible to receive up to 350,000 Swedish kronor ($34,000), a significant increase from the current 10,000 kronor.

This development provides an opportunity for Nigerians living in the Scandinavian country to take advantage of the grant and return home.

At current exchange rates, the amount is equivalent to about N55,930,000 in Nigerian currency and a large sum that can help with resettlement.

Migration Minister Johan Forssell said: “We are in the midst of a paradigm shift in our migration policy.”

The right-wing government, backed by the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, aims to encourage more migrants to leave the country.

Currently, immigrants can receive up to 10,000 kronor per adult and 5,000 kronor per child, with a cap of 40,000 kronor per family.

However, Ludvig Aspling of the Sweden Democrats noted that the grants are relatively unknown and underutilized due to their small amounts.

The announcement comes despite a government-appointed inquiry that recommended no significant increase in the grant, citing concerns about its effectiveness and potential costs. Despite this, Conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson remains committed to tackling immigration and crime, a key pledge during his 2022 campaign.

Sweden has struggled to integrate immigrants, despite taking in large numbers since the 1990s, mostly from conflict-torn countries. The new policy aims to incentivize voluntary repatriation and ease the challenges associated with immigration.

For Nigerians living in Sweden, this grant provides a potential opportunity to return home and resettle with financial support.

Swedish Government entices Nigerians and others with N55.9 million to leave the country first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.