Taking vulnerabilities into account

Since the implementation of the asylum law of 2015, any asylum seeker has the ability to be assisted by an attorney or a representative from an organization during the interview conducted by the Office.

In this regard, you can consult the list of organizations authorized to send a representative.

The organizations that fall under the scope of this definition set by the law are organizations that defend human rights, the rights of foreigners or asylum seekers, the rights of women or children or work to fight against persecutions based on a person’s sex or sexual orientation.

The attorney or representative from the organization wishing to accompany an asylum seeker during the interview, notifies, inasmuch as possible, the Office of their presence in advance, at least seven days before the interview for a normal procedure and four days prior for an accelerated procedure.

Due to the great vulnerability of certain asylum seekers monitored by mental health professionals, Ofpra takes into consideration requests for support made by a psychiatrist, psychologist or psychotherapist, according to the conditions indicated in the procedures guide (See 6.2 Specific examination conditions > Special supplementary procedural guarantees).

In these exceptional cases, the Office can authorize the presence of a trusted third party during the interview according to the conditions indicated in the aforementioned guide (See 6.2 Specific examination conditions > Special supplementary procedural guarantees).

Excluding these specific cases, since the interview is individual, you may not be accompanied by another person.

The presence of children during the interview is also not permitted. If applicable, you must make the necessary provisions in order to come without your children or in the company of another person of your choice to whom they may be entrusted throughout the duration of the hearing.