Sweden to Tighten Family Reunification Rules

Sweden plans to tighten family reunification rules and expand DNA testing to control immigration. The new measures will include stricter income criteria for foreign nationals joining relatives in Sweden. Conservative premier Ulf Kristersson’s coalition with the far-right Sweden Democrats aims to counter immigration and crime. Migration Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard stated that current rules are more generous than EU requirements and need to be revised. A legislative review is underway, with results expected by January 25, 2025.

Sweden to Tighten Family Reunification Rules

The Swedish government plans to toughen family reunification rules, including stricter income requirements and expanded DNA testing to confirm familial relationships. The initiative aims to address immigration and crime, following a deal between the conservative government and the far-right Sweden Democrats. The government argues that current rules are more generous than necessary under EU law. A review of the legislation is expected to be completed by January 25, 2025.

Key Points

Stricter Family Reunification Rules

• Sweden plans to harden eligibility criteria for family reunification.
• Income requirements for foreign nationals joining relatives will be stricter.
• DNA testing will be expanded to confirm family relationships.

Government’s Immigration Control Measures

• Part of a coalition agreement with the far-right Sweden Democrats.
• Aims to counter immigration and crime.
• The current rules are more generous than EU requirements.

Legislative Review and Timeline

• A review of current legislation is underway.
• Results expected by January 25, 2025.
• The review aims to align Swedish rules with stricter European standards.

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