Common questions and answers

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How can I apply for asylum in Greece?

Please refer to the HELP Website below for further information: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/applying-for-asylum/how-do-i-apply-for-asylum/

You can also get more information about the asylum process from the Asylum Service either by calling this number where you can find information in 10 languages: (0030) 210 69 88 660 or visit the website of the Greek Asylum Service, where you can find information in several languages.


Can I apply for asylum in another country? Which country is responsible to examine my asylum application? (Dublin III)

Please refer to the HELP Website link below for further information: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/applying-for-asylum/can-my-application-for-asylum-be-examined-in-another-european-country/dublin-iii-family-reunification-and-other-legal-pathways/

You can also get more information about the asylum process in the European Union from the Asylum Service either by calling this number where you can find information in 10 languages: (0030) 210 69 88 660 or visit the website of the Greek Asylum Service http://asylo.gov.gr/en/?page_id=81


Can I apply for family reunion with my family/ relatives in another EU country? (Dublin III)

Please refer to the HELP Website link below for further information:
https://help.unhcr.org/greece/applying-for-asylum/can-my-application-for-asylum-be-examined-in-another-european-country/dublin-iii-family-reunification-and-other-legal-pathways/

You can also get more information about the family reunion procedure (Dublin III) from the Asylum Service either by calling this number where you can find information in 10 languages: (0030) 210 69 88 660 or visit the website of the Greek Asylum Service http://asylo.gov.gr/en/?page_id=81


I am a recognised refugee/subsidiary protection beneficiary, can I apply for family reunification with my relatives who are in my country of origin/ in another third country (outside the EU)? What are my rights and obligations?

For further information about your rights as a recognised refugee or beneficiary of subsidiary protection, please refer to the HELP Website link below for further information: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/rights-and-duties/rights-and-duties-of-refugees/


How can I return to my country of origin?

If you decide that you want to return voluntarily to your country of origin or previous residence, please refer to the link below: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/voluntary-return/ or visit the website of the Greek Asylum Service for information on the available options: http://asylo.gov.gr/en/?page_id=344


How can I apply for resettlement from Greece to another country? Can UNHCR send me to another country?

No, UNHCR in Greece does not implement resettlement programmes of refugees to other countries.


Are there any organisations that can help me with my asylum application?

Please find below a link to service providers which offer legal assistance: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/where-to-seek-help/other-services/


How can I receive information on access to welfare, healthcare, education, employment, and cash assistance, registration of birth or death?

Please find further information about access to services and service providers below: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/living-in-greece/


I want to apply for cash assistance. Who can I contact?

UNHCR’s cash assistance program was concluded at the end of September 2021. As of October 2021, the Greek authorities are responsible for providing assistance to asylum-seekers to cover their basic needs.

According to government policy, cash assistance will be provided only to asylum-seekers who are accommodated in the formal reception/accommodation facilities for asylum-seekers recognized by the Greek Authorities. If you seek referral to an official accommodation facility, you must follow the referral instructions as per the following link: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/living-in-greece/access-to-cash-assistance/

As soon as the Greek authorities share with UNHCR more information about the future modality to provide assistance to cover basic needs, UNHCR will share this information widely.


I am currently on an island in Greece. When can I move to the mainland?

Please contact the local authorities and/or UNHCR staff in order to receive information on the transfers’ procedures.


I am homeless. Where can I seek accommodation/ shelter?

Please find below a link to service providers related to shelter and accommodation: https://help.unhcr.org/greece/where-to-seek-help/other-services/