Rights and responsibilities of an Asylum Seeker and Refugee.
Seeking Protection
Right to request protection as a refugee in Belize.
Asylum Determination Procedure
Right to access a fair refugee status determination procedure that respects your rights and guarantees.
Temporary Documentation
Once your asylum application is accepted, you have the right to receive temporary documentation, which must be renewed every three (3) months while your asylum case is being processed.
Enjoy the Rights and Freedoms of Belize
Right to enjoy all the rights and freedoms recognized by the national legal system, as well as international human rights instruments ratified by Belize—particularly the rights outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Non-Refoulement (No Forced Return)
Right not to be returned or expelled to your country of origin. Protection against refoulement includes the prohibition of border rejection and extradition.
Not Being Penalized for Unauthorized Entry
Right not to be penalized for entering or remaining irregularly in the asylum country.
Freedom of Movement
Right to remain and move freely within the country while your asylum application is being processed.
Access to Public Services
Right to access public health, education, and justice services. If recognized as a refugee, you also have the right to work legally in the country.
Protection from Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
Right to access available services and protective measures against sexual and gender-based violence.
Non-Discrimination
Your rights cannot be unjustly restricted based on your skin color, gender (woman, man, or child), economic status, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation/identity.
Family Unification
Right to be reunited with close family members once recognized as a refugee.
Assistance
Competent authorities must provide assistance to all refugees and asylum-seekers in accordance with the 1951 Refugee Convention and its corresponding regulations.
Right to an Identity Document
If you are recognized as a refugee, you will receive a personal identification document and enjoy rights equivalent to those of a permanent resident in Belize.
You must respect the Political Constitution of the State, the current laws and regulations, as well as all measures adopted to maintain public order and national security.
You must inform the Refugee Department in Belmopan of any changes to your marital status, address, or contact information.
You must notify the Refugee Department before undertaking any travel abroad. If you choose to return to your country of origin, you may encounter difficulties in reinstating your asylum-seeker status upon return.