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Hesse's New Refugee Payment System

Hesse, Germany introduces a new payment system for refugees, providing a debit card with a 50 euro monthly limit instead of cash, aiming to prevent illegal activities.

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German

Germany

Germany RefugeesPolicyRefugees And MigrationPaymentDebit Card

Hesse Social MinistrySecupay AgGovernmental Prefecture In Giessen

Heike HofmannSandro ZehnerMichael KöberleAntje Van Der Heide

What is the new payment system for refugees in Hesse, Germany?: Starting December 2023, refugees arriving in Hesse, Germany will receive a debit card instead of cash, limiting their monthly cash allowance to 50 euros. This measure aims to prevent misuse of funds for purposes like paying smugglers or sending money abroad.
What are the opinions of local officials on the new payment system?: While some local officials express optimism about the system's long-term cost-effectiveness and its potential to curb illegal migration, others are awaiting further details on implementation costs and training before making definitive statements.
What are the estimated costs of implementing the new payment system?: The cost of implementing this new payment system in Hesse is still uncertain, as it depends on the number of arriving refugees. While the state government will cover the system and transaction costs, local municipalities will bear the additional personnel expenses.
How will the new payment system work, and where will the card be accepted?: The debit card, issued by Secupay AG, will be accepted at all Visa-accepting merchants within Germany but will not work abroad. It is a debit card without an account, and its neutral design is intended to protect refugees from discrimination.
What measures are being taken to ensure a smooth implementation of the new system?: Local municipalities have received instructions to implement the new system, with some already working on integrating it into their processes. The state government has established a coordination office to facilitate smooth implementation and provide necessary information.

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