Sweden Denies Residency to 4,000 British Citizens After Brexit

The Government of Sweden has denied residency to approximately 4,000 British citizens, a refusal rate of 27.5% that is more than three times higher than any other European Union member state. Since 2021, Swedish authorities have issued deportation orders to 2,500 British nationals, accounting for one-third of all British citizens ordered to leave the EU.

Many rejections stem from a strict interpretation of the UK Withdrawal Agreement, specifically regarding late applications. The Swedish Migration Agency has maintained that not knowing an application was required does not constitute a reasonable ground for staying. Some long-term residents who previously held temporary residency under national law now face deportation as the government toughens requirements for income and housing.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office raised these concerns with the European Commission. However, the Commission declined to intervene, stating that member states have a margin of discretion in deciding what constitutes reasonable grounds for missing deadlines. The Commission maintains that the Withdrawal Agreement is being correctly implemented and that it is not their role to dictate how strictly member states process late applications.

Critics and UK officials have condemned the move. Peter Kyle, MP for Brighton, described the deportation of long-term residents as deeply concerning, stating that UK nationals should be treated fairly and with compassion.