Help and assistance for voluntary return

How do I apply for assisted voluntary return?

Contact us by calling or sending a Whatsapp message to: +358 (0)50 413 8625 or by sending an email to return@migri.fi. 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 is provided as in-kind support.

What does the cash assistance for voluntary return include?

The assistance is provided as in-kind support.

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 return journey is organised by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in cooperation with the Finnish Immigration Service and the reception centre.  The assistance is paid by the Finnish Immigration Service’s contract partner in the home country.  Other authorities such as the government of your home country are not involved in the arrangements.

How much is the assistance?

If you apply for assistance within 30 days of the notification of the first negative asylum decision or the cancellation of your first asylum application, you will be paid EUR 5,300. if you apply later than 30 days after the notification or cancellation of your first negative asylum decision, the amount of assistance is EUR 2,000. If you have applied for asylum more than once, the amount of assistance is EUR 2,000.

If you are a citizen of a country whose citizens are not required a visa to enter Finland, you will not be entitled to voluntary return assistance. However, you may be compensated for travel expenses to your home country.

If you are a victim of human trafficking, the amount of assistance paid is EUR 3,000.

If you are in a vulnerable situation or have special needs, you may be eligible for additional assistance of EUR 1,000 on top of the normal assistance. The additional assistance is also available for returning to a visa-free country. 

Find out more about the amounts paid on the page Voluntary return assistance 2024–2025 – 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. In general, the assistance cannot be awarded more than once. If you have already received voluntary return assistance in the past, you cannot receive it again.

Can I be confident that I will receive the financial 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.   The Finnish Immigration Service and IOM also monitor the payments of the assistance in the country of return. The authorities in your home country are not involved in providing the in-kind support.