Referral
Cases are referred to potential resettlement countries primarily by UNHCR and, in the case of humanitarian admission, sometimes by other international bodies, following identification by those actors.
Identification
After receiving the referrals, the country of resettlement reviews these cases to assess if the refugee meets the national criteria and to decide if to continue with the admission procedure.
Registration
The refugee’s personal information, and in some cases photos and fingerprints, are taken in accordance with the national legislation of the country of resettlement.
Selection
During the selection phase, the objective is to assess referred individuals and determine whether they meet the resettlement country’s legal, protection, security, and admission criteria, in order to decide who will be accepted for resettlement.
Conclusion
Following the selection process, the country of resettlement concludes on whether the refugee will be admitted for resettlement or humanitarian admission. The refugee will then be notified on the outcome.
Refused admission
Following the selection procedure, a referral may be refused based on national procedures and different circumstances considered by the country of resettlement.
Pre-departure orientation
Refugees receive information about the country of resettlement and what to expect upon arrival, including practical aspects of daily life, rights and responsibilities, available services, and integration support, to help prepare them for the transition.
Travel to the country of resettlement
Once all necessary preparations have been completed, travel arrangements are coordinated to facilitate the refugee’s safe and lawful transfer to the receiving country, often in partnership with international organisations such as IOM.
Reception
Upon arrival, refugees are received and supported through initial reception measures, which may include temporary accommodation, financial assistance, healthcare, language training, and integration support. The reception phase ends once the refugee transitions into longer-term settlement under the national system.