The Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) has reported a dramatic increase in asylum shelter costs, which rose to approximately €2.7 billion last

year from €1.6 billion the previous year. This surge is primarily attributed to the high expenses associated with crisis emergency shelters.

On average, the cost of regular shelter is €30,400 per resident. In contrast, emergency shelters are significantly more expensive, costing around €69,400 per resident. These costs encompass not only the physical accommodation but also security, catering, and care services, according to a COA spokesperson.

The increase in costs is largely due to a shortage of regular shelters, leading to a rise in temporary emergency facilities. The COA noted that the required shelter capacity grew by nearly 30% in 2023.

Extended stays in asylum centers also contribute to the higher expenses. Many individuals are remaining in these centers longer than anticipated, with around 16,000 status holders still awaiting housing. This backlog is causing delays with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service.

In 2021, the total cost of asylum reception was approximately €726 million. The COA attributes the recent cost increases to the influx of new asylum seekers and the closure of numerous asylum centers in recent years, necessitating the establishment of replacement facilities.

Additionally, the number of unaccompanied minor asylum seekers rose by 38% last year compared to 2022, totaling 5,240 individuals under 18, up from 3,250 in 2022. Some of these young people are currently housed in facilities intended for adults rather than in designated areas or reception families designed to offer appropriate support. The COA anticipates that over 8,000 shelter places will be required for young people this year. Photo by Mstyslav Chernov, Wikimedia commons.