Germany to Roll Out Cashless Payment Cards for Refugees in 2025

Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland will pilot the system, aiming to streamline support and reduce misuse of funds.

The state of Rhineland-Palatinate will introduce cashless payment cards for refugees in Trier starting January 2025 as part of a pilot program.
The cards will replace most cash payments, with state support for living expenses loaded onto them, though some cash withdrawals will remain possible.
Saarland also plans to implement the system in early 2025, with details of the rollout still being finalized.
The initiative, supported by 14 German states, aims to reduce administrative burdens, prevent illicit fund transfers, and discourage irregular migration.
The payment card system is being developed in partnership with Secupay, a service provider, and follows national standards.