This paper aims to shed light on the issue of irregular migration in Sweden, which has become an increasingly pressing concern for policy makers and the public. This study examines the various factors that contribute to irregular migration and the situation of irregular migrants. It explores the various risks that migrants face after entering Sweden such as documentation, challenges, well-being, exploitation, abuse, shelter, and insecurity etc. Additionally, it discusses why some immigrants choose unauthorized migration as a strategy to move, stay, or survive in an illegal situation in Sweden.

This study examines and analyses academic literature on irregular migration, including definitions, theories, and methods. Terminology and methods of measuring irregular migration are briefly discussed, and analysis of some of the basic determinants of irregular migration and Swedish government’s policies and initiatives to address this issue and their effectiveness. Literature on migration has been used to frame the discourse and empirical research, i.e., to frame the theoretical framework. Thus, mixed-methods research is used to draw empirical information by combining quantitative and qualitative methods (e.g., semi-structured interview) to obtain results that cannot be achieved by using only one method. An evaluation of empirical evidence is conducted using neoclassical theory and social network theory to assess the 'current' state of irregular migration in Sweden