Author
Beneficiaries of international protection are entitled to social benefits under the national social security system.[1] Their rights in this respect are equal to Slovenian citizens and do not differ between persons with refugee status and subsidiary protection. The main authority for granting social assistance is the territorially competent Centre for Social Work.
First, beneficiaries are entitled to financial social assistance, provided to all persons without other means. The current amount for single claimants is € 465,34 per month. If the individual also receives financial assistance for accommodation they receive 15% less of financial social assistance per month. In the case of families, the amount per person is less than € 465,34 calculated in accordance with the Social Assistance Benefits Act.[2] This is complemented by other benefits under the national social security system, granted to individuals who meet specific criteria, including child benefits, large family allowance, emergency assistance and kindergarten subsidies.
The rights to social assistance described above are the same regardless of the region of residence. However, apart from the national social security system, additional assistance is sometimes provided by municipalities which may also require beneficiaries to reside within their territory.
One considerable problem faced by beneficiaries of international protection is the lack of social security during the initial period after being granted status. The precondition for applying for social welfare is a registered address of residence, which means beneficiaries must first rent an apartment or be accommodated in an integration house (see Housing). This, together with the waiting time to process their social welfare claim, can in practice take up to two months, during which beneficiaries often have to rely on humanitarian support of welfare organisations.[3]
[1] Article 95 IPA.
[2] Official Gazette of RS, No. 61/2010 and subsequent amendments.
[3] Observation by the PIC.