Background & Purpose

To improve integration, the government proposed changes to how newcomers are distributed across the country and how housing is linked to active participation in society.

The Decision

The Swedish parliament approved a new law that limits the right to housing for newcomers to 36 months and gives municipalities more influence over how many people they receive based on local conditions.

Does this affect you?

  • Newcomers: Individuals who are newly arrived in Sweden will have their right to municipal housing capped at 36 months and must participate in labor market programs to keep their housing.
  • Municipalities: Local governments gain more influence over the reception process and must now factor in local housing availability and social exclusion when planning for new residents.

In Practice

  • The right to municipal housing is limited to a maximum of 36 months.
  • Municipalities get more influence over how many newcomers they receive.
  • Distribution of newcomers will now consider local housing markets and areas with high social exclusion.
  • The right to housing can be cut short if a person refuses to participate in labor market programs without a valid reason.