An EU-funded Finnish–Swedish initiative has launched a new AI-powered mobile application that will help migrants manage integration struggles. The app was developed in consultation with migrants.
A new mobile application powered by artificial intelligence (AI) has been launched to help migrants better integrate by providing them access to reliable information, language support, and digital community spaces.
The app, developed under the three-year Virtual Integration Home (VINCE) project through a close cooperation between Finland and Sweden, was launched to make integration support easier to access, particularly for migrants who struggle to navigate complex public systems or who live far from major urban centers.
Addressing information gaps
Across Europe, migrants often face significant hurdles when trying to access basic information about housing, healthcare, employment rights, and education, stated the press release from the European Commision on Friday (February 20). Language barriers, fragmented information sources, and limited in-person support can hinder integration while increasing the risk of social isolation.
Those living outside major cities or who are juggling work, childcare, or health issues may find attending face-to-face information sessions may not be possible. Even when services exist, finding accurate and up-to-date guidance can be challenging.
VINCE aims to complement existing integration services rather than replace them. By offering verified information, language tools, and digital meeting spaces in one platform, the developers hope to reduce confusion and empower users to act independently.
"Migration is part of Europe, and integration support must evolve accordingly. VINCE is about empowering people with knowledge and confidence, so they can navigate their new society independently," Riina Riihimäki, Project Manager at Turku University of Applied Sciences and VINCE co-developer, said in a statement.
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Designed with and for migrants
Migrants were involved throughout the development process, participating in dozens of user-testing events over the three-year period. Feedback from these sessions shaped the app’s content, interface, and overall user experience, say the developers.
By involving end users directly, project partners say they were able to tailor the application to real-life needs rather than institutional assumptions about integration.
The three core features of VINCE application include an "Ask AI" function, AI-powered language services, and virtual rooms for online interaction.
The "Ask AI" feature allows users to type or speak questions in their own language. The system then gathers, sorts, and filters information from trusted online sources to generate up-to-date answers. Responses can be delivered in text or audio format.
Built-in translation tools, as well as speech-to-text and text-to-speech functions, are designed to support users with varying levels of literacy and language proficiency. Developers say the artificial intelligence is used to scan, sort, and filter selected public sources to keep information current, reducing the need for manual updates. According to the project team, user data is not stored in any cloud service.
The app also includes virtual rooms where users can participate in counselling sessions, language classes, information events, and informal community gatherings. These digital spaces are intended to simulate interactive environments where users can practice everyday vocabulary, learn about local customs, and build social connections.
Developers describe the platform as a complement to traditional services, especially in areas where in-person support may be limited or overstretched.
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Integration remains a challenge
While digital tools may ease some barriers, integration across Europe remains complex. Migrants frequently report difficulties accessing housing, recognition of qualifications, stable employment, and affordable language courses. Others face discrimination, social isolation, or limited access to healthcare.
Asylum seekers are struggling to find housing in major European cities, endure long waiting times for language classes, and struggle with long-term sustainable employment.
VINCE’s developers say technology alone cannot solve these structural issues, but argue that easier access to reliable information and communication tools can help migrants better navigate those systems.
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