Member States are required to allow freedom of movement and residence within their territory to beneficiaries of international protection under the same conditions as other third-country nationals legally resident in their territories (Article 26 Qualification Regulation).
The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol refer to freedom of movement as a fundamental right. The Convention emphasises that refugees who are lawfully residing on the territory of a state are free to choose their place of residence and move freely within the territory (Article 26).
Information provision messages
Inform beneficiaries of international protection about the following.
- They are required to reside in the Member State that granted them international protection, while having the right to move freely within its territory.
- If applicable, the requirement to reside or register in a specific municipality, along with information on the competent authority or relevant contact points.
- Their freedom of movement within the EU is restricted from the moment they are granted international protection and the issuance of their residence permit.
- Any possible restrictions on freedom of movement, such as those based on national security, public order or public health and how these restrictions may impact employment prospects, access to services, housing and overall social and economic integration.
- The possible consequences for beneficiaries of international protection who do not comply with these restrictions on freedom of movement.
- Local support services (e.g. non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups, community organisations) that can assist them in fully exercising their freedom of movement.
Practical tips
- Include detailed information about freedom of movement and possible restrictions in welcome packages given to beneficiaries upon being granted international protection.
- Provide beneficiaries access to printed materials (e.g. brochures, leaflets, posters) as well as to videos/animations explaining their rights and obligations related to moving within the Member State, as well as any safety, administrative or legal considerations they should be aware of.
- Facilitate communication between beneficiaries and the relevant local authorities so they can receive accurate, up-to-date guidance on any movement-related requirements or restrictions.