%

Sweden To End Permanent Residency

Published

1 week ago

April 8, 2026

Sweden plans to end permanent residency permits for asylum seekers from 2026 Credit : Mehaniq, shutterstock

Sweden is set to change its immigration rules in a way that will affect how refugees and protected individuals settle in the country. From 12 July 2026, asylum seekers will no longer be able to obtain permanent residency. Instead, temporary residence permits will become the standard, removing the current path that allows many to stay indefinitely after a few years.

The proposal is part of a broader shift in Sweden’s migration policy. For people arriving in the country seeking protection, it means the idea of building a long term future with permanent status may no longer apply in the same way.

What will change for asylum seekers in Sweden

Under the current system, most people granted asylum or another form of protection receive a temporary residence permit first. After a set period, they can apply for permanent residency, which allows them to live and work in Sweden without time limits.

That second step is what the government now wants to remove.

If the new rules come into force, temporary permits will no longer lead to permanent residency. Instead, people will remain on renewable permits, meaning their right to stay in the country will need to be reassessed over time.

The proposal applies to several groups. It includes recognised refugees, individuals granted alternative protection, people resettled in Sweden, and certain humanitarian cases. It also covers some family reunification situations.

In practice, this means that even after living in Sweden for several years, individuals may not be able to secure a permanent legal status.

Why Sweden is moving away from permanent permits

The government has made it clear that the aim is to create a more restrictive and controlled immigration system. Migration has become a key issue in Sweden in recent years, with ongoing debates about integration, resources and long term population growth.

By limiting access to permanent residency, authorities are looking to reduce what has been seen as a relatively open path to long term settlement.

Supporters of the reform say it brings Sweden closer to other European countries that already operate stricter systems. They argue that temporary permits allow the situation of each individual to be reviewed regularly.

However, the change has also raised concerns. Critics say that removing the possibility of permanent residency could make it harder for people to fully integrate. Without long term security, decisions about work, housing and family life can become more uncertain.

What permanent residency currently offers

Permanent residency in Sweden, known as Permanent uppehållstillstånd, gives people the right to live and work in the country without a time limit.

Although the residence card linked to the permit needs to be renewed every three years, the status itself does not expire. For many, it represents stability after years of uncertainty.

It also makes everyday life easier. People with permanent residency often find it simpler to secure long term employment, sign rental contracts or plan for the future.

Removing access to this status changes that picture. Instead of moving towards a permanent situation, individuals would remain on temporary permits, even after spending years in Sweden.

What this could mean in the long run

The change is expected to take effect in July 2026, but its impact will be felt over time.

For new arrivals, the rules will be clear from the start. Temporary residence will be the only option, with no automatic route to permanent settlement. For those already in the system, the situation may depend on how the law is applied and whether transitional measures are introduced.

More broadly, the reform reflects a shift in how Sweden sees long term immigration. The focus is moving away from permanent settlement as a likely outcome and towards a system where residence remains conditional.

For the people affected, the difference is significant. Living in a country on a temporary permit is not the same as knowing you can stay indefinitely.

At the same time, the change highlights how migration policies across Europe continue to evolve. Countries are adjusting their systems in response to political, social and economic pressures.

For now, what is clear is that Sweden is preparing to take a different approach. From 2026, permanent residency will no longer be part of the standard path for asylum seekers, marking a notable shift in the country’s immigration framework.

Up Next

Spain Sees Historic Rise In Foreign Workers As Labour Market Expands

Don't Miss

Salobreña To Fill With Huge Classic Scooter Rally

%

British Couple’s Juice Empire In Spain Steals Spotlight On UK Television

Published

9 hours ago

April 17, 2026

Adam Woodward

british-couple’s-juice-empire-in-spain-steals-spotlight-on-uk-television

Stacey being quizzed on camera. Credit: EWN

Cameras rolled through the doors of Andajuicya juice bar in Alhaurin el Grande on Friday, April 17, as part of a popular UK television programme that follows British people who have moved to Spain.

Producers chose the location to interview Andi and Stacey about the rapid growth of their cold-pressed juice enterprise and them making success of moving to a whole new life in southern Spain.

Nationwide deliveries bring healthy options to hotels and workplaces

Andajuicya now distributes fresh juices right across Spain. Hotels and companies order regular supplies so staff members enjoy tasty, nutrient-rich drinks that support daily fitness and wellbeing. Customers appreciate the absence of additives and the focus on pure ingredients pressed daily. Employers love the idea that this little extra they give to their staff will go a long way to keeping them healthy, and, of course, in shape for work.

Cafe draws visitors from every corner of Andalusia

People travel from far and wide to experience the cafe at Andajuicya in the Malaga Province town of Alhaurin el Grande. Expat families and local Spanish residents drop in for revitalising juices combined with nourishing meals. Stacey explains their approach clearly. “When we were first starting, everyone was advising we do English breakfasts and bangers and mash. But, Andi and I don’t eat those things. We do things like sausage meat muffins and sausage and bacon pancakes, but we use the best locally-sourced ingredients, and it’s all homemade,” she says. Flavours remain familiar yet every dish receives careful preparation with only the best produce and ending with a fresh juice chaser.

Expansion into franchises and retreats

Andajuicya is now branching out and developing franchise opportunities as well as launching wellness retreats inside the Guadalhorce Valley. This area has gained fame over centuries for rich soil that yields abundant fresh produce ideal for juice recipes. Early interest from British television channels confirms the couple’s achievements as they launch what promises to become the major success story that Spain has been waiting for.

%

Fireta Del Llibre Brings Culture And Activities To Santa Pola

Published

10 hours ago

April 17, 2026

Natascha Rivera

fireta-del-llibre-brings-culture-and-activities-to-santa-pola

Santa Pola book fair features readings, awards and family activities. Photo Credit: Kate Bezzubets / Unsplash

Santa Pola is gearing up to celebrate the 4th edition of the Fireta del Llibre on Sunday, April 26, turning the heart of the town into a vibrant meeting point for readers, writers and culture lovers. The literary event, held in Santa Pola, will run throughout the morning with activities designed for all ages and a strong focus on encouraging reading among children and young people.

Children’s events, recognitions for readers, author signings, and delicious food

During the event, children will be able to enjoy a creative space of wooden recreational games organised by Jocs de Fusta, offering an accessible and playful introduction to the festival atmosphere. The programme will continue just before noon with the awards ceremony for “The Most Readers 2025”, recognising the most dedicated young readers from the municipality’s libraries.

One of the highlights of the day will take place from noon to 2:00pm with “The Literary Reed”, an interdisciplinary session combining live readings by local library users, music by CHAMÁN, and a popular food and drink offer of a beer or soft drink with a tapa for just €2. The session will also include book signings by popular local authors, strengthening the connection between writers and their community.

Visitors will also find bookstalls from Guilló, Sarai, Sonidos y Letras and El Morenet, offering a wide selection of titles and new discoveries. The municipal library stands will present Fanzine Arte_Fact_0, the first youth magazine in Santa Pola, while language promotion will be led by AVIVA Santa Pola, supported by Generalitat Valenciana, along with Som Cultura Santa Pola and the Xarxa de Biblioteques Municipals de Santa Pola.

A bookish event for the whole family

The Fireta del Llibre in Santa Pola continues to grow as a key cultural event, reinforcing its role as a meeting point for literature lovers across the region. Families are encouraged to participate in the Fireta freely and explore all scheduled events throughout the morning, in an event that is sure to inspire readers and writers from all over the municipality and beyond.

%

Trailblazing BBC Radio 1 DJ Andy Kershaw Dies At 66

Published

10 hours ago

April 17, 2026

Adam Woodward

trailblazing-bbc-radio-1-dj-andy-kershaw-dies-at-66

Radio One DJ Andy Kershaw Rest in Peace. Credit: AK X

Andy Kershaw passed away on April 16, 2026, at the age of 66. His family confirmed the sad news, stating he died around 7.30pm on Thursday evening following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

Pioneering broadcaster who championed world music

Kershaw gained fame through his long-running BBC Radio 1 show from 1985 to 2000, where he introduced listeners to global sounds and indie acts they might otherwise never have heard. Many remember his distinctive northern voice and passionate storytelling on air. He often played sessions back to back with John Peel, giving entire evenings of rare sounds to music fans not interested in the regular pop usually favoured by BBC Radio One.

He also notably presented coverage of Live Aid in 1985 and continued broadcasting across BBC platforms for decades, including Radio 3 and documentaries.

In 2025, cancer affected his spine and left him unable to walk. Doctors diagnosed the condition last summer, with a public announcement in January 2026. Kershaw underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other treatments while maintaining positive spirits and plans for more podcasts.

Tributes pour in from fans and colleagues

Social media users quickly shared memories of his impact. One X post noted: “A truly unique voice who introduced so many of us to incredible music from around the world. His passion and storytelling made him unforgettable. Rest in peace, Andy.”

Another user wrote: “He did a lot for African and world music and indie bands back in the ’80s when it was rare to hear an unashamedly northern accent on the BBC.”

A further tribute highlighted his influence: “Andy Kershaw and Charlie Gillet were two wonderful souls and millions of music fans… credit them with broadening our musical horizons… their beautiful influence goes on.”

Hundreds of fans have been sending messages of condolences as well to his older sister and co-BBC radio presenter Liz Kershaw.

Born in Rochdale in 1959, Kershaw built a career that opened doors for non-Western artists in British radio. Colleagues and listeners recall his dedication to eclectic playlists and global discoveries.

Legacy lives on through recordings and podcasts

Kershaw’s later podcast revived elements of his classic shows, allowing new generations to experience his selections. Family members, including sister Liz Kershaw, also a broadcaster, have received messages of support.

His death marks the end of an era for those who delight in world music and alternative radio. Many express gratitude for the sonic journeys, the tales behind them, and the magic discoveries he provided over nearly three decades at the BBC. Kershaw leaves behind two children.