CPAS/OCMW (Public Centre for Social Welfare) is a public service present in every municipality or city in Belgium. It provides different types of social assistance to people in need, including recognised refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection.

CPAS/OCMW plays an important role in the integration of recognised refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection.

After receiving international protection, recognised refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection who do not have sufficient income may apply for social assistance from the CPAS/OCMW of their municipality of residence. The CPAS/OCMW examines the person's situation and resources to determine what assistance they may be entitled to.

You should contact the CPAS/OCMW of the municipality where you live to submit your application for social assistance. The CPAS/OCMW will inform you about the documents you need to provide and will examine your personal and financial situation.

TYPES OF ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY CPAS/OCMW

The CPAS/OCMW examines which type of assistance is most appropriate for your situation. It may provide:

• Financial assistance: a monthly integration income or a top-up if your income is lower than the integration income. Since 1 March 2026, the maximum monthly amount is approximately €893.65 for a cohabiting person, €1,340.47 for a single person and €1,811.57 for a person with a family to support. The amount actually granted depends on your personal situation and resources.
• Housing assistance: help with finding accommodation, assistance with certain housing-related expenses or, in some situations, help with the rental guarantee.
• An installation allowance: assistance that can help cover certain expenses related to moving into and setting up a new home.
• Assistance with medical expenses.
• Help with finding a job.
• Debt assistance, including debt mediation.
• Psychosocial assistance.

The CPAS/OCMW may also ask you to take certain steps, for example looking for work or applying first for other benefits to which you may be entitled.

For more information about CPAS/OCMW social assistance, you can consult Fedasil Info.

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