Voluntary repatriation is one of the durable solutions for refugees and asylum seekers offered by UNHCR Ukraine. Asylum seekers and recognised refugees willing to return to their country of origin or place of habitual residence can contact the closest UNHCR partner NGO and apply for repatriation by filling out the Voluntary Repatriation Form (to be completed by the NGO partner). The process of voluntary repatriation can be initiated only after the form has been completed and submitted to UNHCR. When UNHCR receives the completed form, you will be contacted on the phone number that has been indicated on the form, and you will receive further instructions regarding your repatriation request.
Putting your signature on the form does not oblige you to return to your country of origin. You can withdraw your repatriation request should you decide to do so after a consultation with UNHCR or for other reasons. No person will be repatriated against his or her will.
UNHCR provides the following types of assistance in regard to voluntary repatriation:
- information regarding the situation in a specific country of origin/particular region so that an informed decision can be made about the repatriation;
- arrangements for a safe and dignified return to the country of origin;
- liaison with the relevant embassy in order to obtain travel documents, visas or entry permits;
- small voluntary repatriation grants;
- facilitation of other aspects related to the repatriation.
UNHCR reserves the right to decline voluntary repatriation requests if the situation in the country of origin or place of habitual residence is assessed as highly dangerous. UNHCR may decline a repatriation requests if the applicant intends to return to their country of origin only for a short visit, and not for permanent repatriation.
UNHCR provides assistance in voluntary repatriation to persons who fall within the following categories:
- asylum seekers and their family members, registered with a UNHCR partner;
- recognised refugees and their family members.