The European Migration Network (EMN) has released a new inform “Vocational education and training of applicants and beneficiaries of international protection” analysing how applicants and beneficiaries of international protection (BIP) can access vocational education and training (VET) across 25 EMN Member Countries and Serbia. The publication explores policies, practices and challenges, and highlights examples of measures that support both labour market integration and social inclusion.
VET is recognised as a key tool for helping applicants and beneficiaries of international protection (BIP) build sustainable futures. When adapted to individual needs and linked to labour market demand, it can promote early employment, financial independence, and wider participation in society. The inform notes that most countries provide access to mainstream VET systems, while four have developed tailored programmes for beneficiaries of international protection. Admission conditions often depend on residence status, work permits, or language requirements, with coordination usually led by labour ministries or public employment services.
Fifteen countries align their VET systems with labour market shortages in sectors such as health, construction, hospitality, transport and ICT. However, only five countries adjust their programmes specifically for BIP and applicants. Other approaches include validation of prior learning and entrepreneurship training specifically aimed at BIP.
Many countries provide general incentives such as transport allowances, training bonuses, or free meals to support VET participation, while some also offer targeted measures or employer subsidies for apprenticeships and jobs. Ten countries apply general obligations to all trainees, regardless of background, including regular attendance, passing final exams, or repaying allowances if withdrawing without valid reasons.
Good practices include one-stop shops integrating VET with language and civic training, work-based learning models and innovative digital tools, mentoring and personalised support for learners as well as use of innovative tools, such as Belgium’s First Aid Communication Tool. At the same time, obstacles remain. Language barriers, difficulties in recognising qualifications, a lack of adapted programmes, and regional disparities continue to limit participation.
The inform underlines that vocational education and training can play a decisive role in advancing inclusion, supporting both access to employment and wider integration in host societies.
The full inform “Vocational education and training of applicants and beneficiaries of international protection” is available in the Publications section on the EMN website.