Illegal migrants are eligible for £1,600 a month under a “nonsensical” system in Labour-run Wales.
Ministers confirmed the payments will be made under a £28 million basic income pilot.
Welsh Tory leader Andrew RT Davies warned the handout will act as “pull factor” that encourages people to make the dangerous Channel crossing in small boats.
He said: “Illegal migrants should not be getting a monthly payment in Wales, and this policy from Labour is nonsensical.
“The universal basic income scheme is a colossal waste of tens of millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money and the eligibility of illegal migrants will act as an unacceptable pull factor to the benefit of evil people smugglers.
“Vaughan Gething should swallow his pride, admit this policy was a failure, and focus on the Welsh people’s priorities.”
The basic income pilot was set up to help 18 year olds leaving care for two years.
Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt confirmed it will include young asylum seekers and said the Welsh Government is responsible for migrant integration.
She said: “Eligibility for the Basic Income for Care Leavers in Wales pilot is a matter for the Welsh Government.
“Care experienced unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people are eligible for the Basic Income pilot as category three care leavers.”
