Compulsory health insurance for Ukrainians who have taken refuge in Austria officially ended at the end of May. However, there will be no major changes for the majority of them – a transitional period with full access to medical services is in place until 12 July. During this time, refugees can continue to visit doctors, receive medicines, dental treatment or inpatient care free of charge. They are also exempt from prescription and other fees.
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Even after this temporary phase is over, most Ukrainians will remain under social protection. We are talking about about 35,000 people who receive basic assistance and are already integrated into the social insurance system. Also, those who are officially employed in Austria and are already insured through employment will not feel any changes.
For the rest of the Ukrainians who do not have employment status and do not receive benefits, there is a need to find a long-term solution – either through official employment or self-insurance. According to Austrian law, basic assistance is provided to those who cannot fully support themselves and their families and do not receive other support.
Other forms of social support for Ukrainians are being gradually phased out. In particular, childcare payments and family allowances will cease at the end of October. The Austrian government has already announced its intention to change the eligibility criteria for these benefits to encourage the integration of Ukrainians into the labour market.
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