Pre-departure orientation (PDO) usually takes place after a positive conclusion and before travel to the country of resettlement. During this phase, participating Member States may provide refugees with orientation sessions to help them prepare for life in their new country. 

For refugees, moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Pre-departure orientation helps refugees better understand what to expect after arrival and supports a smoother transition into the receiving country. 

PDO sessions are free of charge and may be organised by participating Member States, international organisations, or supporting organisations involved in the implementation of the Union Framework. 

The content, duration, and format of PDO may vary depending on the receiving country and the operational arrangements in place. Sessions may take place face to face or, in some situations, remotely. Sessions may be delivered in person or online and may range from a single session to programmes spread over several days.

PDO may include information about:

• rights and responsibilities in the country of resettlement 
• housing, healthcare, education, and employment; 
• language and communication; 
• the social and cultural environment; 
• travel arrangements and arrival procedures. 

A compilation of topics that could be part of a standard PDO can be found in the Operational Tool for Resettlement: Guiding note on pre-departure orientation topics | European Union Agency for Asylum.

Pre-departure orientation contributes to managing expectations, reducing uncertainty, and helping refugees prepare for the next stage of the admission process and life in the receiving country.

The EUAA is offering a training module on the pre-departure phase in the context of resettlement and humanitarian admission. More information can be found here.