Resettlement in a third country ⛔ is NOT a right of refugees. This procedure is reserved for cases with specific protection needs in the host country, and which requires approval from the Governments of countries that have resettlement programmes. UNHCR DOES NOT make the final decision on the resettlement of a refugee.
🟦 Who decides which people are resettled?
This process is defined by the laws and procedures of the country receiving the individuals. UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies do not decide who will be resettled.
🟦 How can I apply for resettlement?
There is no program you can apply to. Resettlement is a process led by third-country governments that identify families to be relocated to another country.
Resettlement is NOT A RIGHT for refugees, meaning you cannot apply for it or appeal decisions made by countries.
🟦 How does resettlement work?
Resettlement is a process through which certain cases may be reviewed and could eventually travel to a third country. Not everyone who has interviews with or through UNHCR is part of the resettlement process. If your case is being considered for resettlement, a UNHCR staff member will inform you through official channels.
🟦 Can refugees choose the country where they want to be resettled?
No, refugees cannot choose their resettlement country.
🟦 Who makes the final decision on resettlement?
The final decision lies with governments and is based on each country’s laws and procedures. UNHCR and partner organizations do not make decisions on who can be resettled.
🟦 A person or group has contacted me offering help to apply for resettlement. What should I do?
All services, including information related to the resettlement process, are completely free and personal (you do not need lawyers, representatives, or intermediaries).
Anyone—inside or outside UNHCR—offering such services or documents in exchange for money or favors is committing fraud and breaking the law.
🟦 If someone tells me to lie about my case, will my resettlement be processed faster?
No. Providing false information during interviews, forms, or documents is considered fraud and will result in the rejection of your resettlement case.
UNHCR and partner agencies have strict mechanisms to verify the accuracy of all information.
Remember: your case can be denied at any stage of the process!
🟦 I was called and attended a resettlement interview. Does this mean I will travel to a resettlement country?
No. Beginning the resettlement process does not guarantee that you will be accepted by a resettlement country.
🟦 My resettlement case was denied. Can I appeal the decision?
No. Resettlement is not a right, so decisions cannot be appealed. If your case was denied, you must continue your local integration process in Ecuador.
🟦 Please note:
- The information you provide will remain confidential.
- Refugees cannot apply for resettlement on their own.
- Starting the resettlement process does not guarantee travel to a third country.
- The resettlement process may take 2 years or more.
- Resettlement is NOT a solution for emergency situations.
- If someone contacts you offering help with resettlement, you may be a victim of fraud.
If this has happened to you, report it to [email protected].