In another strand of Ireland’s immigration-reform package, the Government has approved an income-based contribution scheme that will see international-protection applicants who are in paid employment contribute 10 %–40 % of their wages—between €15 and €238 per week—towards the cost of food and lodging in State-provided accommodation.
Roughly 7,500 asylum seekers currently hold work permits, many filling chronic labour shortages in hospitality, agriculture and healthcare. Until now they kept their full earnings while the State paid accommodation costs averaging €14,000 per person per year. Officials estimate the measure could recoup €25–30 million in 2026, funds earmarked for faster asylum processing and improved reception centres.
![Working Asylum-Seekers to Pay Up to €238 a Week for State Accommodation]()
Deductions will be taken at source by accommodation providers, so payroll departments will need written confirmation of the charge for tax and benefits calculations. HR teams should stress-test net-income scenarios—particularly for shift-based staff—to ensure living costs remain sustainable. A hardship waiver will apply for those earning under €97 a week, and there is a 12-month lead-in to allow IT systems (and residents) to adapt before payments begin in late 2026.
Advocacy groups fear the policy could push low-paid workers into undeclared employment to avoid deductions. The Department of Justice counters that similar schemes operate in several EU states, arguing the charge is proportionate and enhances public acceptance of the asylum system.
Roughly 7,500 asylum seekers currently hold work permits, many filling chronic labour shortages in hospitality, agriculture and healthcare. Until now they kept their full earnings while the State paid accommodation costs averaging €14,000 per person per year. Officials estimate the measure could recoup €25–30 million in 2026, funds earmarked for faster asylum processing and improved reception centres.
Deductions will be taken at source by accommodation providers, so payroll departments will need written confirmation of the charge for tax and benefits calculations. HR teams should stress-test net-income scenarios—particularly for shift-based staff—to ensure living costs remain sustainable. A hardship waiver will apply for those earning under €97 a week, and there is a 12-month lead-in to allow IT systems (and residents) to adapt before payments begin in late 2026.
Advocacy groups fear the policy could push low-paid workers into undeclared employment to avoid deductions. The Department of Justice counters that similar schemes operate in several EU states, arguing the charge is proportionate and enhances public acceptance of the asylum system.
