On September 1st, Salzburg ended three family benefits for asylum seekers, marking what Deputy Governor Marlene Svazek (FPÖ) calls the “end of the financial welcome culture.”
The move eliminates multiple birth allowances, support for expectant mothers, and emergency aid, leaving asylum seekers with only statutory basic care. The measure is expected to save around €270,000 annually.
The discontinued benefits included a one-time €700 per child multiple birth allowance, €300–€600 support for expectant mothers in financial need, and up to €3,000 emergency aid for families facing death, serious illness, or eviction.
Previously, these payments were available regardless of residency status.
Svazek emphasized that the state’s family support is meant exclusively for Salzburg families, not as an additional “welcome bonus.” Basic care for asylum seekers will be retained, covering accommodation, meals, health insurance, language courses, clothing allowance, and other essential services.
The policy is part of broader austerity efforts in social and health services, with up to €89 million in savings targeted across the sectors.
The move was sharply criticized by KPÖ Plus, the Communist Party of Austria in the state parliament, with the far-left representatives dismissing the measure as “political distraction.”
