The introduction of the nationwide payment card for refugees has been completed in Saxony. Since April 1, newly admitted refugees in Saxony have only been receiving their money in this way, as announced by the State Directorate (LDS). The districts and cities are also equipping asylum seekers who have been living here for some time with the standardized federal card, replacing their own temporary solutions.
Asylum seekers can use the card to make cashless payments for purchases, among other things. It can also be used to pay for cell phone contracts or public transport tickets. Cash withdrawals are generally only permitted up to 50 euros per month.
The payment card makes it more difficult to make improper transfers abroad, for example to pay people smugglers, said LDS President Béla Bélafi. "The payment card also significantly reduces the administrative burden. It is a contribution to reducing bureaucracy and deregulation."
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