Please be informed that UNHCR in Thailand does not offer individual counselling on family reunification.
The protection of family unity is an important human right. The ability to join a family member in a third country depends on the legal status granted to them and the nature of the relationship.
The family member residing in the third country must initiate the application process. It is important to note that specific deadlines and procedures apply, depending on the country of the sponsor’s residence. Once the application is initiated, the family member becomes a “sponsor” or “petitioner” for eligible family members. Eligibility for family reunification varies depending on the sponsor’s country of residence, with most national laws allowing spouses, parents of minor children, and dependent children to reunify. In some cases, other dependent family members may also be eligible.
Upon acceptance and the issuance of relevant visas, families can travel to be reunited with their sponsor and will typically be granted a residence permit upon arrival, though the specifics of this permit vary between countries.
Which countries have family reunification programmes for refugees?
Dedicated refugee family reunification procedures exist in most countries.
Australia
If you have family members in Australia, there may be family reunification or sponsored visa options available to you. Please visit our Help Australia page for more information.
Belgium
If you were separated from your family members who are now in Belgium, you may be able to join them in Belgium under particular conditions. You can find more information and other requirements like having a visa here.
Canada
If you have family members who have been recognized as refugees by the Canadian government, you may be able to join them under certain circumstances. You can find more information on our Help Canada webpage.
New Zealand
If you have family members in New Zealand, there may be family reunification or sponsored visa options available to you. Please visit our Help New Zealand page for more information.
United States
If your relative has entered the United States as a resettled refugee or been granted asylum in the United States, they may be eligible to petition for you to join them in the United States. For more information on the available family reunification processes, please visit our Help USA page.
For more information on country-specific criteria and how to apply, please go to the Family Reunification sections for the destination country of the UNHCR help website https://help.unhcr.org/ . If you are seeking information about a family reunification program in a country that is not listed on the UNHCR’s help website, please search for “family reunification” on the government website of the related country.
