Ukrainians in Sweden ask for the right to stay: a petition to the government and a demand for certainty after 2026

More than 10 thousand Ukrainians in Sweden have signed a petition asking to stay in the country forever. Find out why Ukrainian refugees are calling for changes in immigration policy and what they propose in return

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More than 45,000 Ukrainians who sought refuge in Sweden after russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine are now living in a state of uncertainty. Temporary protection, which was introduced under an EU directive in 2022, is currently in effect until March 4, 2026. However, after this date, the Swedish government has not proposed any action plan.

That is why more than 10,000 Ukrainian refugees along with 13 Ukrainian organizations signed a petition to the Swedish government. The initiator was Khrystyna Hevchuk, head of RefugeeHope UA&SE, who emphasizes that it is not just about legal formalities, but about human dignity, security and the right to a stable future.

“We, Ukrainians, are not just asking for protection, but we are offering our dedication, our knowledge and our work in return,” writes Khrystyna Hevchuk in an article in Dagens Nyheter.

What exactly do Ukrainians ask for in their petition to the Swedish government?

Ukrainian communities in Sweden have formulated a number of specific requests, which, according to them, will allow for full and painless integration for both sides:

1. The opportunity to stay without having to leave the country. We are talking about granting a permanent or long-term residence permit for Ukrainians who have already created a new life in the country.

2. Including the period of temporary protection in the length of legal residence. This will allow people who have been living, working and paying taxes in Sweden for several years to apply for stable forms of residence more quickly.

3. Flexibility in changing status. In particular, the petition calls for allowing the change of status to work, student or family status without the need to leave the country, as well as easing income requirements and other barriers that do not correspond to the real living conditions of Ukrainians in the country.

4. Family reunification without leaving the country. This is especially true for those who started the process before the outbreak of full-scale war, new families formed in Sweden, and children born in the Kingdom.

5. Abolish discrimination in the social security system. At present, refugees who arrived earlier have more rights, although all Ukrainians stay in Sweden on the same legal basis.

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The petition emphasizes that today the Ukrainian community in Sweden is not just refugees. According to the latest data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), 66% of Ukrainians in Sweden are employed or participate in labor market programs, and 46% already speak Swedish - even before full access to identification numbers and employment programs.

In addition, it is noted that many Ukrainian children already speak Swedish fluently, have friends among the locals, and their parents are building careers, participating in social life and paying taxes. For these families, returning to Ukraine after 2026 would mean losing their homes, friends, stability, and professional fulfillment again.

The petition also emphasizes the mutual benefits: Ukraine needs EU solidarity, and Sweden needs new specialists, especially in the fields of healthcare, education, and technology. These are the areas that are currently experiencing a staff shortage. This position is shared not only by Ukrainians, but also by part of Swedish society. The petition is also signed by Swedes who support calls for a clear, humane, and long-term immigration policy.

What's next for Ukrainians in Sweden?

At the time of publication, the Swedish government has not officially commented on the Ukrainian initiative. However, the uncertainty that hangs over thousands of families is causing growing concern. Activists expect a public reaction from the government and call for a decision that takes into account the real situation of people, not just legal terms.

If you are a Ukrainian in Sweden who wants to legalize your stay or change your migration status, you can get legal assistance on the Visit Ukraine portal. Contact professional lawyers who understand the specifics of local legislation and can accompany you at every stage. Visit Ukraine specialists have already helped thousands of Ukrainians with migration issues in EU countries.

We remind you! Sweden remains one of the most attractive countries for Ukrainians in 2025. Read our previous article to find out whether Ukrainians need a visa to Sweden and how to apply for it, how to find a job in this country and obtain a residence permit.

Photo: TT News Agency/Claudio Breskiani via REUTERS

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