An asylum interview is an interview conducted by a government official with a person who has applied for asylum. The purpose of this interview is to assess whether a person is eligible for asylum due to fear of persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.
An asylum interview is part of the asylum application process where asylum seekers meet with government officials to explain their reasons for fleeing their country and their asylum application.
The purpose of the interview is to assess whether the person is defined as a refugee according to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol or not.
Important questions in the asylum interview, the second part of the interview
During the interview, the asylum seeker will be asked questions by government officials about the following:
Identity: name, date of birth, nationality, religion, previous and current residence
Reasons for fleeing: Why did the refugee flee his country? What dangers or harassments has he experienced?
Escape route: How did the refugee escape from his country? What path has it taken?
Evidence: What evidence does he have to support his claim of persecution or danger in his country of origin?
Future plans: What are the plans for the future if the asylum seeker is granted asylum?
The asylum interview is usually conducted in person, but may also be conducted by phone or video.
The asylum seeker has the right to have an interpreter during the interview and can also be assisted by a lawyer or legal representative.
After the interview, the government officials will review the asylum application and decide whether to grant the asylum seeker or not.
If the application is rejected, the asylum seeker may have the right to appeal.
Tips for preparing for the asylum interview:
Prepare your items in advance: Think about all the questions you might be asked and prepare your answers.
Gather your documents: Gather all the documents you have to support your claim of persecution or danger in the country of origin.
Practice with an interpreter: If you are not fluent in the host country’s language, practice with an interpreter to make sure you can communicate effectively.
Get help from a lawyer or legal representative: If you can, get help from a lawyer or legal representative who specializes in asylum.
Be honest and truthful during the interview: answer all questions completely and honestly.
Be polite to government officials: Be polite and respectful to government officials, even if you disagree with their decision.
