A coordinated reception of refugees

The purpose of coordinated reception of refugees is to make it easier for individuals and families to take their first steps in Iceland and to empower them to use their strengths in settling in a new society and to ensure continuity in services and coordinate the involvement of all service providers. We aim to enable every individual to become an active member of Icelandic society and promote wllbeing, health and happiness.

Please contact us via mcc@vmst.is for more information.

• Can stay at the reception centre for asylum seekers up to 4 weeks after receiving protection.
• Can live and work wherever they choose in Iceland.
• Can apply for temporary financial assistance from the social services in the municipality of their residence.
• Can apply for housing benefits (if a legal renting contract and residency is provided).
• Can get assistance with seeking employment and making a resumé at The Directorate of Labour.
• Can get free Icelandic language and community courses.
• Are covered by Iceland Health Insurance like other citisens.

Schooling for children aged 6-16 is mandatory and children are guaranteed a spot in a school in your municipality.

Most municipalities give grants for children to participate in after school activites.

When people receive refugee status or humanitarian protection they are invited to an information meeting at the Multicultural Information Centre (the Directorate of Labour) to learn about the initial steps in Icelandic society and to be offered to participate in a coordinated reception program for refugees.

If you accept to participate in the programme, MCC will send your data to a municipality which will appoint a case worker to advise and assist
with the following:

• Applying for financial assistance.
•  Searching for housing and receiving rental subsidies.
• Booking an appointment with a personal counsellor at the Directorate of Labour to assist with your job search.
• Enrolment in kindergarten, schools, clinics, etc.
• Creating a support plan where you set your personal goals.
• Coordinated reception of refugees is available in many municipalities across the country.
• Support can be provided for up to three years.

If you are not part of the Coordinated Reception Programme you can receive services by contacting the relevant institution directly.

The Multicultural Information Centre has published an information brochure on the coordinated reception program that can be found here.