Help Nigeria / Voluntary return

Voluntary return

Voluntary Return is the return of any refugee to their country of origin based on a free, conscious, and informed decision. The International Organisation for Migration supports the return of an asylum seeker.

ATTENTION!

Voluntary Return can only be facilitated to areas which are considered safe!

Can UNHCR help me return to my country of origin?

UNHCR facilitates Voluntary Return for refugees to go home in safety and dignity. If you wish to have our support to return to your country of origin, follow the steps below:

1Contact

Visit the NCFRMI Registration office in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Ogoja, Yola  and Maiduguri office [see the detailed address for each office provided page/tab] 

OR

Contact the UNHCR Helpline mentioned in Section 2 above, depending on your location, and inform us about your wish to return to your country of origin.

    2Voluntary Repatriation Assessment

    UNHCR staff will conduct a short interview and an assessment to ensure we can assist you and register your request.

    In this stage, you will need to present your Refugee or Registration certificate (asylum seeker proof of registration).

    For refugees without a Refugee or Registration certificate, they are advised to approach the NCFRMI Registration office in their respective area and will be guided accordingly.

    3The support given by UNHCR

    Needs Assessment: A UNHCR staff member will meet with you to understand your specific needs. We will help you with procedures like visiting the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) office and applying for necessary travel documents.

    Contact Information: You will be asked to provide the contact details of a relative or friend who will receive you when you arrive in your home country.

    Travel Document Support: We provide financial assistance for transportation to help you obtain required visas or other official travel documents from your country’s embassy or consulate.

    Flight Arrangements: Once all your documents are ready, UNHCR will provide airplane tickets for you and your registered family members.

    Financial Assistance: To help with your initial arrival, UNHCR provides a cash grant to each returning individual:

    • $150 USD for each adult.
    • $100 USD for each child.

    We are committed to ensuring your return is safe, dignified, and supported.