What We Do Get Help FAQs Do people seeking protection receive social welfare? An a protection applicant is not entitled to social welfare support. They are subject to a means test and if they cannot live independently, they receive payment referred to as the Daily Expenses Allowance (DEA). An adult DEA in the asylum process gets €38.80 per week; a child gets €29.90. I.e., €5.54 per day for an adult and €4.27 for a child. These rates were last changed in 2018. A person can have their DEA reduced if they have caused the delay in consideration of their application, failed to comply with a requirement on them, breached the house rules or engaged in violent behaviour. They can also be required to contribute to the ‘rent’ if they are working. Child asylum seekers do not receive child benefit. They can apply for an exceptional needs payment for items like clothes. They can receive Back to Education Clothing and Footwear Allowance. A person can apply for permission to work if they have not had a decision within six months of making their application. Work permits are issued for a twelve-month period and must be renewed at intervals. Manage Cookie Preferences