Voluntary Repatriation

Every person has the right to return home voluntarily, in safety and dignity. This includes refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless people, and other persons in need of international protection. 

Going back home is your personal decision. 

You decide for yourself whether to return to your country of origin or habitual residence. Your decision should be based on your own situation, needs, and preferences: 

  • Your choice depends on your personal circumstances. 
  • No one should force or pressure you (e.g., authorities, organizations or family); 
  • People in similar situations can make different decisions about return. 

All UNHCR counselling and assistance services are free of charge. 

How UNHCR can help

UNHCR provides information about voluntary repatriation. We help you understand your options. 

UNHCR does not tell you to return, pressure you or try to convince you. We only help you make your own voluntary and informed decision. 

Contact UNHCR Sweden

If you have questions, please contact us: 

Individual counselling with all family members

If you need more support or detailed information after the first contact, UNHCR can arrange online meetings with you and your family. These are individual meetings and may also include children, depending on their age and maturity. 

During the individual counselling meetings, UNHCR can: 

  • Explain the voluntary repatriation process; 
  • Share objective, reliable and up-to-date information on conditions in your intended areas of return, such as infrastructure, basic services, accommodation, work opportunities and the school system; 
  • Provide information about available support in the return area;  
  • Consult you on the implications of voluntary repatriation for your legal status in Sweden; and 
  • Help you understand how to apply for a voluntary repatriation grant and assist you with your application. 

Important information about the voluntary return programme

The Swedish Migration Agency is the main state agency to: 

  • Receive voluntary repatriation grant applications; 
  • Make decisions on each application; and 
  • Decide how much financial support you can get. 

UNHCR does not take part in the decision-making process and does not approve or reject voluntary repatriation grant applications. 

Your personal choice at all times

Talking to UNHCR and taking part in counselling does not mean you must return. You can change your mind at any time.