Cities of Refuge 1
Prior to the end of the residency period Perhaps
the greatest challenge with the ICORN programme is that it is a temporary solution. In many cases, artists in residence are unable to return to their country of origin following their time in a City of Refuge. The responsibility a City of Refuge has towards an artist ends when the residency period comes to a conclusion after two years. It is therefore important to plan well in advance for what the artist will do after the period. If the artist would like to stay in Sweden after the residency period, it is important that they carefully consider the consequences that various choices can bring on their finances, their entitlement to social security and travel etc. Artists in residence that have come to Sweden have taken different paths following their residency period . A majority have applied for permanent residence permits as independent professionals. A smaller number have chosen to return to their home countries, and some have applied for—and been granted—asylum in Sweden. Please contact ICORN for advice and guidance regarding the conclusion of the residency period. Applying to stay in Sweden Artists in residence can apply for a residence permit in several ways: as freelance artists, as asylum seekers, by becoming students or through work. When a person applies for a residence permit, the Swedish Migration Board will examine the reasons given in the application. In order for the Swedish Migration Board to be able to make a decision, therefore, it is important that applicants state the reasons they should receive a residence permit. It is always possible to apply for protection (asylum) at any time during the process. If a person’s residence permit application is refused, the general rule is that the person should leave the country. However, it is always possible to appeal the decision within a certain time frame that is shown in the decision. Applying for a permanent residence permit If an artist in residence wishes to stay in Sweden after the two-year residency period, they can apply for an extended permit. Partners and chil32/49