asylum application rejected

new roots4 minutes

Bianca Amoruso Wennerbyfounder & c.e.o., Medensiaswedish immigration expertMedensia

If your asylum application was not approved, it means Migrationsverket (the Swedish Migration Agency) decided that you cannot stay in Sweden based on asylum.

you now have 2 main options:

  1. Accept the decision and return to your home country
  2. Appeal the decision and ask a court to review it

Receiving a rejection can be very difficult and stressful. It is normal to have many questions about what happens next.

We help explain what the decision means, what your options are, and what support may be available to help you during this time.

If your asylum application is rejected, the Swedish Migration Agency has decided that your reasons are not enough for you to stay in Sweden.

You will receive a decision that says you must leave Sweden and the Schengen area.

This decision is usually called:

  • refusal of entry, or
  • expulsion

The decision will also explain:

  • if you can appeal
  • how long you have to appeal
  • when you must leave Sweden
  • Read the decision and check your deadline: The decision explains whether you can remain in Sweden while appealing
  • Appeal promptly if you disagree with the decision: Submit your appeal within the stated deadline and seek legal advice if possible
  • If the decision becomes final, leave Sweden and the Schengen area within the required timeframe: Failure to do so can lead to enforcement measures and a re-entry ban

You have 2 choices:

1
accept the decision

If you decide to accept the decision, you can sign a declaration of acceptance.

this means:
  • you agree with the decision
  • you will not appeal
  • you will start planning your return

If you do not sign this document, the decision will still take effect about three weeks after you receive it, unless you appeal.

Once the decision takes effect, you must leave Sweden according to the instructions in the decision.

2
appeal the decision

If you believe the decision is wrong, you can appeal.

if you appeal:
  • a court reviews your case
  • the court uses the same laws and rules as the Migration Agency
  • the court decides whether the decision should change or stay the same

Your decision letter explains:

  • how to appeal
  • the deadline for appealing

In some situations, you may need to leave Sweden while waiting for the court’s decision. The decision letter will explain if you are allowed to stay during the appeal process.

  • Courts do not often change decisions, but it is still your right to appeal
  • You should still prepare to leave Sweden, even if you appeal

In some cases, you may receive financial or practical support when returning to your country of origin.

This support may include:

  • help with travel costs
  • financial assistance
  • support to reintegrate when you return

The support available depends on your country of origin.

You can ask Migrationsverket about return support programs.

accommodation at a return centre

If your asylum application has been rejected, you may be moved to a return centre.

At the return centre, you can receive help with:

  • planning your return journey
  • getting travel documents
  • booking travel

  • If you are an adult without children:
    • once the decision takes effect and the deadline to leave has passed, you may no longer be allowed to stay at the return centre, even if you have not yet arranged travel
  • If you are a family with children:
    • you can stay at the return centre until you leave Sweden
    • children can continue going to school
  • A rejection means you must leave Sweden and the Schengen area
  • You have the right to appeal if the decision allows it
  • Appeals must be made before the deadline
  • Migrationsverket can help you prepare for your return
  • Support may be available to help you return safely to your home country

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Rules regarding residence permits, work permits, and employment in Sweden may change and depend on individual circumstances. Always consult Migrationsverket or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your case.

  • Read your decision carefully: It explains your rights, deadlines, and next steps
  • Do not miss the appeal deadline: If you want to appeal, submit it before the time limit
  • Ask questions if you are unsure: You can contact Migrationsverket for guidance
  • Start planning early: Even if you appeal, it is important to prepare for the possibility of returning

↗︎ Information about appealing a decision 
↗︎ Support for returning to your home country
↗︎ Contact the Swedish Migration Agency

Learn how to appeal a decision

can I appeal the decision?

Yes, in most cases you can. Your decision letter explains how to appeal and the deadline.

do I have to leave sweden?

Yes. If the decision takes effect and you are not allowed to stay during an appeal, you must leave Sweden and the Schengen area.

can I get support when returning to my country?

In some cases, yes. Depending on your country of origin, you may receive financial or practical support. Contact Migrationsverket for more information.

where will I stay while preparing to return?

You may stay at a return centre, where Migrationsverket can help you prepare for your journey. Families with children can usually stay until they leave Sweden.

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