Help and assistance for voluntary return

How do I apply for assisted voluntary return?

Contact us through WhatsApp or by phone: +358 (0)50 413 8625. We will discuss your situation and fill out your application with you, and make sure that you meet the criteria for assisted voluntary return. Asylum seekers apply for assisted voluntary return at the reception centre where they are registered as customers.

How long does it take to make the arrangements for me to return home?

The time it takes to make the arrangement depends on your home country and the documents that you need. If you have all the necessary documents, the travel arrangements will take at least two weeks. If you need to obtain documents, and there are several matters that need to be clarified, the arrangements may take several months.

What does the assistance for voluntary return include?

The assistance includes travel expenses, travel arrangements and the assistance granted for reintegration, which may be cash or in-kind support.

What does the cash assistance for voluntary return include?

The assistance can be paid either in cash or in kind.

Cash assistance is money, of which EUR 200 is paid in Finland, and the rest in your home country.

In-kind support includes services and supplies that help you in your reintegration. You can use the in-kind support to find premises and supplies to start your own business, rent a home, pay school fees or for healthcare services.

Who organises my return?

The voluntary return and the assistance are fully organised by the Finnish Immigration Service or the reception centre, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Other authorities such as the government of your home country are not involved in the arrangements.

How much is the assistance?

The maximum amount of assistance is determined by law in Finland. The amount of assistance varies, depending on the type of assistance and the home country.The amount of cash assistance varies between EUR 200 and EUR 1,500, and the in-kind support between EUR 3,000 and EUR 5,000, depending on the home country. You will find more information about the amounts paid on the page Assistance for voluntary return by country – Finnish Immigration Service (migri.fi).

Who can get assistance for voluntary return?

The criteria for getting assistance are permanent return to the home country and need for assistance. Permanent return means that you must cancel any applications or appeals you have pending for asylum or another residence permit. You must also return to the country where you can and intend to live after return. You can get assistance if you cannot pay for the costs of returning to your home. As a rule, assistance for voluntary return can only be paid once, so if you have previously received assistance for voluntary return in another European country, you cannot get it again.

Can I be confident that I will receive the cash assistance after I have returned to my home country?

Yes, you can. The assistance and support are always provided in your home country through a reliable verified operator. For example, the authorities in your home country are not involved in providing the in-kind support for you. The Finnish Immigration Service and IOM track the payment process in your home country and you can contact the Finnish Immigration Service and IOM after you have returned to your home country.