In Brandenburg, local governments are growing impatient with the slow rollout of a unified payment card for asylum seekers.

They are considering implementing the system independently if the national introduction continues to face delays.

The payment card aims to reduce administrative burdens on municipalities and prevent funds from reaching human traffickers.

Meanwhile, in Bavaria, two asylum seekers successfully challenged the restrictions of the payment card in court, leading to a ruling that their benefits should be transferred back to their bank accounts.

This decision raises questions about the card's effectiveness, as it is limited to cash withdrawals of only 50 euros per month and is not suitable for online purchases.

Critics argue that the card does not adequately address the diverse needs of asylum seekers, particularly families and pregnant women, who may require more financial flexibility.