Sweden's Contentious "Snitch Law": Parliament Decides on Compulsory Reporting of Undocumented Migrants Amid Protests in Stockholm

Sweden's parliament votes on "snitch law" requiring six authorities to report undocumented migrants to police

Stockholm, June 16, 2026 — Hundreds of protesters gathered on Stockholm’s Norrbro bridge on Sunday, June 14, as Sweden’s parliament prepared to vote on a highly divisive bill that would require certain government authorities to report undocumented migrants to the police. The legislation, widely referred to as the “snitch law” by critics, is part of the right-wing government’s broader strategy to deter irregular migration and accelerate deportations.

If passed on Monday, June 15, the law would take effect on July 13, 2026.

What the “Snitch Law” Entails

The original proposal was far broader, potentially including schools, healthcare providers, and social services. After intense debate and public pressure, the government narrowed the obligation to six specific authorities:

• Public Employment Service

• Pensions Agency

• Tax Agency

• Social Insurance Agency

• Two other national bodies

Municipalities, healthcare facilities, schools, and social services have been excluded from the mandatory reporting duty.

Under the new rules, employees at these six authorities would be legally required to inform police upon contact with undocumented individuals. Estimates suggest there are currently between 30,000 and 50,000 undocumented migrants living in Sweden.

Strong Opposition from Civil Society and Professionals

The proposal has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights organizations, trade unions, and medical professionals.

The Swedish Red Cross warned that even the debate around the law has already caused fear among undocumented people, leading many to withdraw from public services. In an earlier opinion piece, Red Cross Secretary General Ulrika Modéer wrote that vulnerable individuals are becoming uncertain about seeking help, which could hinder authorities’ ability to reach them during crises or protect them from exploitation.

Doctors of the World Sweden described the policy as part of a deliberate strategy to make life so difficult for undocumented migrants that they choose to leave. Hannah Laustiola, Director of Humanitarian Defenders, told the EU Observer that the law signals to migrants that Sweden will be inhospitable.

Trade unions, including the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU), strongly opposed the measure, arguing that public service workers are not border enforcement agents. EPSU emphasized that such obligations violate professional ethics and international human rights standards, and could push vulnerable people further into the shadows, increasing exploitation and public health risks.

Civil society groups like the Platform for Undocumented Migrants (PICUM) called the proposal “shameful,” warning it would undermine trust, force professionals into impossible ethical positions, and enable racial or ethnic profiling.

Government and Political Context

The bill is a key part of the Sweden Democrats-backed government’s “era of deportation” strategy. It comes ahead of a general election at the end of summer 2026, as migration remains a highly charged political issue.

Supporters argue the measure is necessary to maintain control over immigration, deter irregular stays, and ensure resources are directed toward those with legal status.

Critics, however, see it as part of a broader trend of criminalizing migration and undermining access to basic services for vulnerable populations.

Broader European Trend

Sweden’s move aligns with tightening migration policies across Europe. Several countries have introduced or are considering similar reporting obligations as part of efforts to increase returns and reduce irregular migration.

The controversy highlights the difficult balance European governments face between enforcement, humanitarian obligations, and public opinion.

What Happens Next?

If the bill passes on June 15, it will take effect on July 13, 2026. Implementation details, guidance for authorities, and potential legal challenges from rights groups are expected in the coming weeks.

For undocumented migrants currently in Sweden, the law could significantly impact access to employment services, pensions information, tax services, and social insurance support.

Organizations supporting migrants are urging people to seek advice and continue accessing essential services where possible, while preparing for increased fear and potential avoidance of government contact.

For the latest updates, detailed analysis, and guides on Sweden’s immigration policies, asylum rules, deportation procedures, and 2026 migration developments, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/sweden