Austria Offers Incentives for Syrians' Return

Published: 2024-12-13

Austria is actively encouraging the voluntary return of Syrian refugees by offering financial incentives and support.

The Austrian Interior Ministry has announced a new initiative providing up to 1,000 euros to Syrians willing to return home, along with assistance in organizing their journey and obtaining necessary documents.

This move comes in the wake of the recent political upheaval in Syria, where the regime of Bashar al-Assad has been overthrown.

Despite the changes, Austrian labor market experts, including AMS Chief Johannes Kopf, believe that the impact on the local job market will be minimal, as many Syrians are not expected to return immediately.

Currently, around 24,000 Syrians are employed in Austria, with a significant number working in the hospitality and service sectors.

The Austrian government emphasizes that while protection is temporary, the country is preparing for potential future deportations in coordination with EU member states.