As part of the "Rebuild Syria" initiative, Austria launched a special voluntary return programme for Syrian nationals on 1 July 2026, running until September 2026. The programme aims to facilitate the voluntary and sustainable return of Syrian nationals who are either applicants in pending asylum proceedings or beneficiaries of subsidiary protection receiving basic welfare support.
The programme provides financial assistance of up to EUR 3,000 for asylum applicants and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection receiving basic welfare support, and up to EUR 1,500 for Syrian nationals subject to a return obligation or holding refugee status or another residence permit. It also covers travel arrangements and transportation costs and offers access to the EU Reintegration Programme upon return.
The initiative is supported by a targeted information campaign, including direct outreach to Syrian nationals receiving basic welfare support and social media activities promoting the free return counselling and assistance services provided by the Federal Agency for Reception and Support Services (BBU).
General information on voluntary return and reintegration is available through the Return from Austria website in 24 languages. A brochure on return to Syria provides further information on the initiative and return counselling centres across Austria and refers readers to the Return from Austria website.
- Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum | Bundesamt für Fremdenwesen und Asyl (1 July, 2026), Sonderaktion zur Förderung freiwilliger Rückkehr nach Syrien [Special Programme to Promote Voluntary Return to Syria],
- Federal Ministry of the Interior | Bundesministerium für Inneres (1 July, 2026), Sonderaktion zur Förderung freiwilliger Rückkehr nach Syrien [Special Programme to Promote Voluntary Return to Syria],