Registration
What is registration?
Registration is the process of recording, verifying and updating information about individuals or families who are seeking international protection. It is usually one of the first steps for people who have fled their home country due to conflict, persecution, or violence to access international protection and assistance.
In some countries, UNHCR conducts registration, and in others, the national authorities are responsible.
Why is registration important?
Registration helps the Government, UNHCR and their partners understand your situation and needs. It may also help you:
- Get access to certain services, such as assistance with cash, food, shelter, healthcare, education, and legal support.
- Initiate your asylum application or refugee status determination process.
- Receive documents that confirm you have registered with UNHCR or are seeking asylum in that country. These documents may help protect you and support your interactions with local authorities.
- Be considered for longer-term solutions, such as voluntary return, local integration, or resettlement, if you are eligible.
Registration also helps UNHCR plan and coordinate the appropriate support for displaced and stateless people in your area.
Will I get resettled if I am registered with UNHCR?
Being registered with UNHCR does not guarantee resettlement. Registration is important for accessing protection and assistance, but resettlement is not an automatic outcome and only a possibility for a very small fraction of the refugee populations.
Who registers asylum seekers and refugees?
The government is responsible for registration of asylum-seekers and refugees, but in some countries, UNHCR and our partners carry out registration. Wherever you are, UNHCR works in close coordination with government entities to ensure asylum seekers and refugees are documented and can access protection and services.
Select the country you are in, to find out how this process works:
I need help with Registration in:
UNHCR and our partners, will NEVER request payment or services in exchange for registration.
If you have been asked to pay or to offer a service, report this immediately. Learn more about this on our Reporting fraud page.
What happens during registration?
The registration process can vary by country, but it may include:
- An interview, to collect personal and family information, such as your name, date of birth, nationality, and details about your education, employment.
- Taking your photograph and biometrics (fingerprints, iris scan)
- Presenting documents you have
- Receiving a registration certificate or document that may contain your name, photo, registration number, and other relevant details.
- Updates to your file if your situation changes (for example, if you move or have a baby)
All information you provide will be treated confidentially. It is important to give accurate and complete information to ensure appropriate support and protection.
You will be informed if registration leads to other steps, such as a refugee status determination process.
It is important to keep all documents you receive safe.
To find out more information please select the country you are in:
I need help with Registration in:
What document will I receive?
The type of document you receive after registration depends on the country you are located in. Some countries issue certificates, others may provide cards or other forms of documentation.
During your registration interview, you will be informed about:
- the type of document you will receive
- What the document means
- What services or support it may help you access
- Information about renewal or replacement
To get specific information about the document in your country, please select the country you are in:
I need help with Documents in:
What should I do with this document?
Your registration document is important. You may need it to:
- Access services or assistance
- Renew your registration
- Prove your identity or registration status
Please keep it safe.
Do not sell, share, or alter your document. It is issued only for you. Misusing it may be considered fraud.
What is verification or renewal?
Verification or renewal are when the national authorities or UNHCR, depending on the country, checks and updates the information that you previously provided during your registration interview. This helps make sure your information is still correct—especially if your situation has changed.
During verification, you may also receive updated or renewed documents.
You will be informed when it’s time for verification or renewal and what you need to bring.