Financial assistance for refugees
Financial assistance is provided to individuals and families who cannot provide for themselves and their dependents without help. The aim is that the assistance is temporary while people are acclimating to Icelandic society and finding work.
When can I apply for financial aid?
You can apply for financial assistance at any time of the month, but it is advisable to apply at the beginning of the month.
Where can I apply for financial assistance?
The first application is submitted at the local center where you have legal residence. This also applies if you're in temporary housing arrangements, like a hostel in a specific neighborhood.
What do I need before I apply for financial assistance?
- A residence card or proof of registration issued by the Directorate of Immigration.
- A passport or other valid ID. Details about the Allowed Personal Identifications (audkenni.is)..
- A valid Icelandic ID number.
- Legal residence in Reykjavík.
- A bank account in an Icelandic bank.
- An electronic ID, if possible. Most banks and telecom companies provide electronic IDs.
- Videos on electronic IDs
How do I apply for financial aid?
Service representatives at a center will assist you with your initial application and processing.
If you need ongoing financial assistance, you can apply electronically on My Pages. You apply for one month of aid at a time. The application is not effective until you choose to submit it.
What happens next?
If you are applying for financial assistance for the first time, or if six months have passed since you last applied for financial assistance, you need to visit a Center within two business days of submitting your application to verify your identity by showing a photo ID.
After receiving your financial assistance application, we verify whether you meet the criteria of the Rules on Financial Assistance. The application is either approved or denied.
If your application is approved, you will receive financial aid payment by the first weekday next month.
If your application is denied, and you believe there are exceptional circumstances, you can request a review by the Welfare Council Appeal Board.
How much financial aid is available?
Individuals can receive up to 239,895 kr. in financial aid per month. Married couples and common-law partners can receive up to 383,832 kr. in financial aid per month.
Am I entitled to financial aid?
You could be eligible for financial aid if you are at least 18 years old, you have legal residence in Reykjavík and you meet the criteria for income and assets.
What is available to people receiving financial aid?
- Housing for refugees Main support for housing.
- Guarantee certificate for rental housing Guarantee for payment of a deposit for property rental.
- Support for household item purchases Support for the purchase of general household items and appliances.
- Special housing aid for refugees Special financial assistance for rent.
- Culture and society Civic education and Icelandic courses, access to Icelandic culture.