New assessment of Afghan citizens’ ability to obtain passports
Update Explained
The Swedish Migration Agency has updated its assessment on the ability of Afghan citizens to obtain national passports. Previously, due to difficulties faced by Afghan citizens in obtaining passports after the Taliban took power in 2021, many were granted alien's passports in Sweden. However, the situation has changed, and Afghan authorities can now issue national passports within a reasonable timeframe. As a result, Afghan citizens in Sweden will no longer automatically qualify for an alien's passport; each application will be assessed individually. Women and those with protection status are more likely to be granted alternative travel documents if they cannot obtain a national passport. Afghan citizens who have a pending application with the Swedish Migration Agency will be contacted if further documentation is needed.
What changed
Afghan citizens in Sweden will no longer automatically qualify for an alien's passport due to changes in the ability to obtain national passports from Afghanistan.
Why it matters
Afghan citizens in Sweden must now apply for national passports through Afghan embassies or consulates unless they fall under specific categories like protection status or being unable to contact Afghan authorities.
Who is affected
- Afghan citizens living in Sweden
- Women from Afghanistan in Sweden
- People with protection status from Afghanistan in Sweden
Key details
- Afghan authorities can now issue passports within a reasonable time frame.
- Applications for an alien's passport will be assessed individually.
- Women and those with protection status are not required to travel to Afghanistan for a passport.
Important notes
The Swedish Migration Agency does not require women to travel to Afghanistan for a passport due to discrimination concerns.