Austria's new integration rules: What refugees should expect in 2026!

Austria's new integration rules: What refugees should expect in 2026!

From 2026, Austria will introduce a new integration support system for refugees, bringing profound changes to the way migrants are supported. Loud visitukraine.today Not only will access to German courses be revised, but also access to the labor market and the sanctions for non-fulfillment of integration requirements. The goal is to achieve results rather than just simply participating in the program.

The new structure of the state German courses will consist of three essential components: firstly, direct language learning, secondly, preparation for entry into the labor market and thirdly, integration into Austrian society through the acquisition of values ​​and behavioral norms. These measures aim to promote the integration of migrants into society and help them to settle in better.

Sanctions and consequences

Another important aspect of the new system are the sanctions that can be imposed if integration requirements are not met. If refugees do not take part in integration measures or do not make progress, they face cuts or even the cancellation of social benefits. The Austrian state will no longer pay for formal integration efforts. These measures are intended to reduce the need for additional support by integrating more migrants into the labor market.

Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm emphasizes the need for refugees to become an active part of society, which includes learning the German language and understanding social values. Ukrainian refugees have special opportunities for support through the Visit Ukraine portal, which offers legal advice on migration issues. In addition, current considerations by the Austrian government show that cuts in financial payments to Ukrainian refugees are being discussed due to increasing applications from the Zakarpattia region.

The integration law in context

The integration assistance system is in the context of the existing Integration Act, which came into force on June 9, 2017 and has since undergone several amendments - most recently on June 11, 2022. This law aims to promote the rapid integration of those entitled to asylum and subsidiary protection as well as legally settled third-country nationals. It is emphasized that integration is a two-way process in which both the state and those affected must actively participate.

The integration measures are designed to offer both language support and orientation, particularly targeting those entitled to asylum and subsidiary protection aged 15 and over whose status was granted after December 31, 2014. The principles of supporting and demanding are intended to ensure that migrants receive the necessary support, but are also obliged to actively participate in their own integration.