Government says tougher rules could raise annual deportations sixfold.

Sweden’s government said Wednesday it plans to sharply increase the number of immigrants deported after criminal convictions, proposing that any offence punishable by more than a fine should normally result in expulsion.

Migration Minister Johan Forssell said foreign nationals who commit serious crimes in Sweden have too often avoided deportation.

Under the proposed legislation, prosecutors would be required to seek deportation during sentencing proceedings instead of deciding on a case by case basis.

The government estimates the changes could lead to around 3,000 deportations annually, compared with the current average of about 500 per year.

The draft law will be submitted to the Council on Legislation for review before being presented to parliament. Forssell said the government aims for the new rules to take effect on September 1.

The Nordic country has grappled for more than a decade with a rise in organised violent crime, largely linked to gang conflicts and disputes over the drug trade. While fatal shootings have declined, bombings have increased, according to official statistics.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, whose right wing government relies on support from the Sweden Democrats, took office in 2022 pledging to tighten immigration policy and combat crime.

Since then, authorities have expanded police powers, introduced tougher sentencing laws and advanced measures targeting youth offenders, including proposals to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 13.