Alternatives to providing housing in-kind for applicants for international protection

Housing arrangements for applicants for international protection are a central element of EU reception policy. This EMN inform presents comparative findings from 22 EMN Member Countries, Norway and Serbia, mapping national approaches between January 2020 and October 2025. It examines financial allowances and vouchers as alternatives to in-kind accommodation, covering eligibility criteria, rate-setting mechanisms, access to essential services, and monitoring practices — highlighting both the diversity of national frameworks and the shared goal of ensuring adequate living conditions.