Austria mandates work for migrants, introduces benefit payment card

The Austrian authorities are introducing a work obligation for migrants, and those who refuse to undertake it will receive reduced financial support. A pilot programme for transferring benefits to a special payment card is also being launched, akin to a similar system operating in Germany.

From Tuesday, Austria's regulations come into effect requiring asylum seekers to work 10 hours a week in federal institutions. The rules also permit directing migrants to work in units subordinate to local authorities and specific organisations. This means that migrants can work, for example, in care homes, shelters, libraries, or the volunteer fire brigade.

From November, they will also be able to engage in work related to winter maintenance of transport infrastructure.

Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner announced at a press conference on Monday that the services will be able to motivate those migrants who try to avoid working.

If you do not perform any work, your pocket money will be reduced from 40 to 20 euros. This is one of the clear consequences – said Karner.

Meanwhile, the head of the Federal Care Agency, Andreas Achrainer, is convinced that the new regulations will present new opportunities for refugees in seeking employment. In his opinion, the acquired experience will enhance their attractiveness in the labour market.

The Austrian authorities previously introduced mandatory courses for immigrants. Since the beginning of June, 1,653 refugees have completed special training. The authorities have developed five training programmes, which include information on culture, democracy, law and duties, and equality.

Moreover, this week in Steyr, Upper Austria, the functionality of the benefit card has been expanded. While it previously allowed for public services, it will now be the card onto which the benefit, previously paid in cash, will be transferred.

According to representatives of the Austrian Ministry of the Interior, the card is another important step in combating illegal migration.

We are sending a clear signal that we are taking consistent action against benefit abuses and are also streamlining the payment process – explained Minister Karner.

Let's recall that a similar card was used in Germany. At the end of January, "Deutsche Welle" reported that Germany is introducing a new special payment card for asylum seekers. Funds for living will be transferred onto the card and, furthermore, they will not be linked to a bank account. The aim is to limit the transfer of money to the family or friends of immigrants.