Applying for asylum is an act of hope and courage. If you are in Belize and fear returning to your country of origin due to persecution, this section is designed to help you understand your rights and the application process.
Who is a refugee and who is an asylum-seeker?
An asylum-seeker is a person who has left their country and requested international protection in another country but has not yet received an official decision on their application. This person seeks to be recognized as a refugee due to a fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
A refugee is someone who has been officially recognized as such by a government or by UNHCR. This means that they cannot return to their country of origin because their life, freedom, or safety would be at risk.
In Belize, the process begins when the asylum-seeker submits their application to the Refugee Department. If the application is approved, the person is recognized as a refugee.
If they do not qualify, even after an appeal if necessary, they may be returned to their country of origin if there is no other legal avenue to remain in the country.
How to submit an asylum application
In Belize, the asylum application (to be recognized as a refugee) must be submitted directly to the Refugee Department in the city of Belmopan.
- Complete the form:
Fill out the form provided by the Refugee Department. Remember to notify them immediately if you change your address or phone number during the process. - Submit your documents and evidence:
Provide all the required documents along with any other evidence that supports your application.Required documents: This includes identification such as a passport, national identity card (DUI), birth certificate, marriage certificate, and any necessary authorization for minors.
Supporting evidence: Submit any other proof that explains the circumstances that forced you to leave your country of origin. If you cannot provide a required document, explain why it is not available.
- Interviews:
You and the members of your household will take part in at least one interview with an eligibility officer from the Refugee Department. During the interview, the officer will ask detailed questions about the events that forced you to leave your country.
What happens after applying for asylum?
After your interview with the Refugee Department, an eligibility officer will prepare a detailed assessment of your case, including all the circumstances that led you to request protection. This assessment is sent to the Refugee Eligibility Committee, where each member reviews your application and votes on whether you should be recognized as a refugee.
Once the committee reaches a recommendation, it is forwarded to the Minister of Immigration, who makes the final decision on your status. Keep in mind that this entire process may take some time to complete.
Immigration status in Belize during the asylum process
At the registration point with the Refugee Department, you and each member of your family will receive a provisional document that confirms your status as asylum-seekers and grants you temporary legal residence in the country. This document may be an asylum receipt or an asylum stamp.
People without a passport receive an asylum receipt, while those who do have a passport receive an asylum stamp in their document.
Appeal in case of a negative decision
If you wish to submit a written appeal to the Ministry of Immigration, contact the Human Rights Commission of Belize (HRCB) to receive legal assistance. You must file your appeal within 14 days of receiving a negative decision.
The Ministry will review your case and issue a final decision. If the decision remains negative, you may inquire about the possibility of regularizing your status under another migration category through the Immigration Department. However, if no alternative migration options exist, you could face deportation to your country of origin.