Asylum-seeker certificates confirm your identity and facilitate your movement in Yemen.
Who is a refugee?
A refugee is someone forced to flee their country of origin due to persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Membership in a particular social group
- Political opinion
- Generalized violence, conflict, or war
Refugees cannot return to their home country due to risks to their safety and well-being.
What is the difference between refugees and migrants?
- Refugees: Flee their country due to persecution or serious human rights violations and need international protection.
- Migrants: Move to another country, often for economic reasons, and are not in need of international protection.
Can I access assistance if I am an asylum-seeker?
Yes, asylum-seekers and refugees have equal access to assistance and services. Eligibility is based on vulnerability criteria, not status. Except for resettlement, which can only be considered for recognized refugees.
Can I be considered for resettlement?
UNHCR identifies and assesses cases for resettlement based on:
- Vulnerability
- Resettlement eligibility criteria
- Profiles requested by resettlement states
- Available resettlement places
Can I return to my home country if I wish?
Yes, individuals have the right to return to their home country. UNHCR can:
- Provide counselling and information to help you make an informed decision.
- Assist with the Assisted Spontaneous Return (ASR) program for Somali refugees.
- Refer Ethiopian migrants to the Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) program by IOM.
Contact UNHCR offices in Aden or Sana’a for assistance.
Can Yemenis apply for asylum?
No, under international refugee law, Yemenis cannot apply for asylum within Yemen. For advice on seeking asylum outside Yemen, contact:
- UNHCR Regional Office, Amman, Jordan: [email protected]
How do I gain refugee status in Yemen?
- Somalis: Refugee status is granted by IPNA upon registering asylum claims in Aden. In Sana’a, Somalis are registered as asylum-seekers by IPNA/BRA.
- Other Nationalities: Registered as asylum-seekers by IPNA/BRA in Sana’a or by UNHCR in Aden.
For more information on registration of asylum and refugee status in Sana’a or Aiden area, select below your location and learn where to go ⬇️
