If you are in need of legal assistance, UNHCR can provide support through the UNHCR-Hired Lawyers and the Dispute Settlement Committees.
Refugees can benefit from and must abide by all rights and obligations reflected in the Iranian laws and regulations. Refugees may be subject of a lawsuit of any nature or require consultation on civil and criminal matters or even administrative procedures related to their documentation, etc.
UNHCR-Hired Lawyers
UNHCR-Hired Lawyers (UHLs) are available to provide legal counselling to all UNHCR persons of concern, no matter their nationality or documentation status, at no cost. You may contact the UNHCR office nearest your place of residence for more information.
Dispute Settlement Committees
Dispute Settlement Committees (DSC) were established with the main purpose of assisting Afghan Amayesh card holders to settle civil legal issues with Iranians and other Afghan nationals. DSCs do not offer services to non-Afghan foreign nationals.
Dispute Settlement Committees are run by BAFIA and are usually located within the provincial BAFIA office. You may contact the UNHCR office closest to you to be referred by the UNHCR-Hired Lawyer to a Dispute Settlement Committee to resolve your legal dispute. You may also contact your BAFIA provincial for more information.
It should be noted that UNHCR has limited capacity to assist with Legal Services in case of traffic accidents resulting in injuries, death, or financial damages while driving without a license. The driver may be held is responsible and subject to pay damages or sentenced to prison.
Duties of refugees in the Country of Asylum:
Respect and abide by the laws of the country (Comply with all local laws and customs): It is your duty to respect and abide by the laws and regulations of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Avoid mass gatherings and overcrowded areas to minimize the risk of arrest, detention, and deportation.
Carry your identification documentation: You must ensure that your identification document such as Amayesh card Hoviat card, Headcount slip or valid passport with a visa, should be with you all the time, in case If you are asked to show your identity document by the law enforcement authority. Be aware that you can approach UNHCR offices nearest to your place of residence (Contact UNHCR offices) for free of charge legal support and consultation. (Legal Services)
Avoid unauthorized movements: If you are recognized as a refugee in Iran, returning to the country of origin without authorization, may result in losing your refugee status. Traveling to areas other than the area of your residence (as indicated in your documentation Amayesh, Headcount LP or visa) without authorization and movement and residence in prohibited areas for foreign nationals can result in you losing your Amayesh or Hoviat status, putting you at risk of arrest, detention, and deportation.