legal and social conditions for asylum seekers and refugees in ...

Financial assistance
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In principle, refugees are entitled to the same social benefits as nationals. In practice, however,
they usually receive less because many of the benefits, such as pensions and unemployment
benefit, are earnings-related.
The basic monthly living allowance, which is the same for nationals, is as follows:
Single persons and single parents FIM 1,959–2,047 EUR 329–344
Other persons over 18 years (e.g. married) FIM 1,665–1,740 EUR 280–293
Child over 18 living with parent(s) FIM 1,430–1,494 EUR 240–251
First child aged 10-17 FIM 1,371–1,433 EUR 230–241
Second child aged 10-17 FIM 1,273–1,331 EUR 214–224
Third and subsequent child aged 10-17 FIM 1,175–1,228 EUR 197–206
First child under 10 years FIM 1,234–1,290 EUR 207–217
Second child under 10 years FIM 1,136–1,187 EUR 191–200
Third and subsequent child under 10 years FIM 1,038–1,085 EUR 175–182
These amounts may differ slightly according to the municipality in which the refugee lives.
Like any Finnish family with children under 18 years of age, refugee families are entitled to
receive child benefit for each child. In 1999, the monthly benefit was as follows:
First child FIM 535 EUR 90
Second child FIM 657 EUR 110
Third child FIM 779 EUR 131
Fourth child FIM 901 EUR 151
Fifth and each subsequent child FIM 1.023 EUR 172
Single parents are granted an extra FIM 200 [EUR 33.6] for each child every month.
While he/she is following the integration programme and has no private income, the refugee
receives an integration allowance instead of the basic living allowance. This allowance
corresponds to the labour market support granted to long time unemployed persons. If necessary,
an additional amount may be granted to cover living costs.
The granting of the integration allowance is conditioned on the refugee committing him/herself to
the integration programme. The failure to meet this commitment may lead to a reduction of the
allowance.
The approximate amount granted for one person each month is between FIM 2,600–3,000 [EUR
437–504], with a possible additional living allowance. Unlike the basic living allowance and child
benefits, the integration allowance is taxable.
Refugees and de facto refugees are allowed to work and do not need a work permit.
Access to the adult education system
In principle, there are no restrictions to the adult education system. Some schools might,
however, require the refugees to pass an entry test or to provide school certificates.
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Finland