Saxony-Anhalt introduces payment cards for asylum seekers – revolution in social services!

Saxony-Anhalt introduces payment cards for asylum seekers – revolution in social services!

In Saxony-Anhalt, the administration is taking the next step in integration policy: the nationwide introduction of a payment card for asylum seekers is almost complete. Around 8,500 of these cards have already been issued to those entitled. Loud Dubist Hall Saxony-Anhalt is setting an example as one of the first federal states to introduce such a system nationwide.

This new balance-based payment card, which has a debit function and does not require an account, is intended to make it easier and more secure for asylum seekers to receive their state benefits. The card enables non-discriminatory electronic payments in stores without the need for cash. The monthly amounts are posted directly to the card, which can then be used to pay in retail stores.

Relief for municipalities and prevention of abuse

Interior Minister Dr. Tamara Zieschang emphasizes that the payment card is intended to achieve better control and order in migration policy. The new system is intended to avoid false incentives and increase transparency in state services. A central goal is to prevent money flows abroad and to effectively make it more difficult to support criminal smuggling structures mi.sachsen-anhalt.de can be seen.

Experience is already showing positive effects: for the first time, a noticeable reduction in the burden on municipalities has been observed when it comes to cash expenditure. Prof. Dr. Ariane Berger, who is involved in the Saxony-Anhalt district council, welcomes the introduction of the payment card. She emphasizes that this measure also minimizes the administrative burden caused by cash withdrawals.

Framework conditions and restrictions

The cards are limited to 50 euros in cash withdrawals per month per person and can only be used domestically. International transfers are also excluded; Exceptions only apply to urgent needs within Germany. Online shop items are also not permitted. The payment card is blocked abroad, which is intended to ensure that social benefits are used safely.

The introduction of the payment card is part of a comprehensive model that was decided by the federal and state governments in November 2023. A total of 14 federal states have agreed to introduce this system, while Bavaria and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are developing their own solutions. Some pilot projects in Thuringia and Lower Saxony show different results, which concerns both the government and human rights organizations ZDF today is reported.

The payment card has the potential to simplify the integration of asylum seekers and at the same time reduce administrative work. The state bears the costs of introduction and operation and sees this as a necessary step to optimize administrative processes. The focus is on minimizing immigration incentives and reducing irregular migration, while giving existing asylum procedures the necessary support.