CPAS/OCMW is a public centre for social welfare in every municipality or city in Belgium, offering different social services. In certain conditions to people in need including refugees. CPAS/OCMW play an important role in refugees and individuals benefiting from subsidiary protection’s integration process. 

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After receiving international protection, refugees or beneficiaries of subsidiary protection who have no income, have the right to ask for social assistance from CPAS/OCMW. If you stay still in a social house from CPAS/OCMW, you have no right to apply for this aid. 

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You need to contact CPAS/OCMW of your residency region to submit your request for social assistance by following documents:

• CGRS letter
• ID card (orange card or electronic A type)
• Rental contract

CPAS/OCMW will examine your situation and income. It takes about two weeks to 1 month. 

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CPAS/OCMW assistance items:

• Financial assistance (a monthly living wage which is currently € 984.68 per month for person who lives alone, € 1,330.74 or a top-up if you earn less than the living wage) per month for a family of two persons. 
• Housing or assistance in searching for housing, installation bonus (help with buying furniture and household goods)
• Assistance in paying for medical care (medical card)
• Help in looking for work
• Help in repaying debts (debt mediation)
• Psycho-social assistance