Sweden expects to fill just 350 of 900 refugee places

Sweden is expected to bring in around 350 refugees through this year’s 900-place resettlement quota after government instructions arrived too late to fill it. Those who get a place will also have to renew their right to stay in Sweden.

The Migration Agency said on 7 October that it submitted its proposed selection priorities in December 2025. It needed the government’s response by mid-September to transfer all 900 people before year-end. The later decision left insufficient time to do so.

The 350 figure is an estimate of transfers possible this year, not a completed arrival count or a reduction of the formal quota.

Selection will mainly cover Congolese refugees in Uganda and Afghan women and girls in Turkey. Around two-thirds of those selected are expected to be women and girls. UNHCR identifies cases for resettlement; this is a separate route from applying for asylum after reaching Sweden.

Under the agency’s current guidance, people granted resettlement permits from 12 July 2026 receive temporary permits instead of permanent residence. Refugee status brings a three-year permit; subsidiary protection brings 13 months.

Recipients must apply for an extension before their permit expires. Before travel can be arranged, the Migration Agency must also secure a receiving municipality and accommodation.

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