Anecdotal evidence over many years shows that financial barriers unfortunately all too often prevent refugees from accessing complementary pathways for admission. UNHCR labor mobility partner Talent Beyond Boundaries recently published in their evaluation that a typical refugee applicant would need to pay EU 8,600-9,500 for economic immigration avenues to Canada, Australia, or the UK. These include fees for applying for visas and/or tests (language, DNA, etc.), travel costs to attend visa interviews, costs for translation and certifications, and travel costs to the third country once granted admission. Many refugees, despite having the required qualifications, skills, and experience, are unable to cover these costs.

Unfortunately, to date, no widely available financial mechanism exists to support refugees in covering the incidental costs associated with complementary pathways opportunities.  Moreover, microfinance experts consulted confirm that a transborder loan mechanism through which the refugees would be able to borrow money in one country and return it in another does not currently exist.