.jpg)
Unaccompanied children and young people
Children and young people who come to Sweden without their parents are entitled to support, safety, and care. Here you’ll find information about reception and rights.
Updated:
Quick summary of each heading on the page
Please note that all forms, digital applications (e-services) and some linked websites are currently in Swedish. Contact Citizen Service if you need help in English.
WHAT “UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE” MEANS
Children who come to Sweden without their parents are called unaccompanied children. By “children” we mean everyone under 18. Social services have a special responsibility for children and young people up to age 21.
Most unaccompanied children are between 13 and 18 years old, and the majority are boys.
The Swedish Migration Agency’s responsibilities
- You will be assigned public legal counsel to help with legal matters.
- You will get help to trace where your family members are.
- The Migration Agency assigns you to a municipality that receives you and arranges housing and support.
The municipality’s responsibilities
- Arrange housing and daily care
- Provide special support if needed
- Appoint a legal guardian (god man)
- Ensure schooling
To carry out these responsibilities, social services, the Chief Guardian authority (överförmyndaren), and the school work together.
Social services’ responsibilities
Assessment and support
Social services assess what you need and how you can best receive support and protection. Based on the assessment, decisions are made about:
- what type of accommodation is suitable for you,
- whether you need specific interventions,
- whether relatives in Sweden can take you in.
Integration and establishment
If you are granted a residence permit, social services are responsible for helping you become established in society. The municipality also takes over responsibility for tracing where your family members are.
Social services must follow your development and provide support according to your needs.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ACCOMMODATION
In Boden, most unaccompanied children live in accommodation managed by the municipality. Others are placed in foster homes or with relatives.
As you grow older and more independent, supported independent living may become relevant. Social services are responsible for you regardless of where you live.
YOUR RIGHTS
The government has decided that the principle of normalisation applies to children in Sweden. This means that unaccompanied children have the same rights as other children in the country.
Rights under the Convention on the Rights of the Child
- Children have the right to express their views and be listened to.
- Children have the right to attend school and preschool.
- Children have the right to healthcare and dental care.
- Children have the right to be reunited with their family.
Do you want to access a specific document? Contact Citizen Service, and we will help you retrieve and read the full document.
Contact
Citizen Service
E-mail: kommunen@boden.se
Phone: +46 921 620 00