Complementary Pathways

Complementary Pathways offer safe and regulated avenues for refugees to enter and settle in a third country that meets their international protection needs. These pathways provide opportunities for refugees to move from their current country of asylum to a new nation that offers temporary or permanent residence, leading, in most cases, to a more permanent solution for refugees.

It is important to distinguish complementary pathways from UNHCR-managed resettlement programs. UNHCR does not directly refer refugees for complementary pathways, refugees can apply for these opportunities directly with the relevant countries or partners. Admission to complementary pathways is governed by existing immigration laws and criteria set by the receiving countries, which assess applicants based on skills or connections in the third country. The decision to accept refugees into complementary pathways rests solely with the governments of the receiving countries.

While UNHCR does not directly implement or manage complementary pathways, we can offer limited assistance to refugee candidates seeking to access different pathways, including through counselling and advice, assistance with documents or exit formalities.

Please note that ALL services provided by UNHCR, including registration, are provided for FREE. For more on reporting fraud, abuse and exploitation, please click here https://help.unhcr.org/rwanda/complaints-and-feedback/. Please beware of individuals claiming false affiliation to UNHCR and/or its partners including outside the UNHCR Office or on various social media platforms. Do not trust anyone who claims to provide services on behalf of UNHCR including resettlement and complementary pathways in exchange for money or favors. Unlike resettlement, for some pathways, application fees for visas and other administrative procedures may apply. It is very important to check and verify the source of any fee request before making a payment.