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Age assessment

Background information

If, after considering available information, there are substantial doubts about the age of an unaccompanied child, the authorities may conduct an age assessment to determine whether the person is an adult or a child. Age assessment can include various methods of examination. The least intrusive method should always be used. If less intrusive methods are not reasonably indicative, the age assessment can include a medical examination. In this case, the applicant and/or their guardian are required to provide consent to the examination (Article 25(5) APD (recast)).

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Related EUAA tool

For more information see the EASO, Practical Guide on Age Assessment, second edition, 2018.

Explain these messages to the applicant during the registration/lodging.

  • The applicant might be asked to undergo an age assessment to determine their age, if there are doubts about the applicant’s age.
  • Age assessment does not determine if an application should be accepted or rejected; it helps to determine which guarantees an administration has to put in place. 
  • The age assessment is performed by qualified professionals in respect of the dignity of the applicant. The procedure does not cause harm or pain.

If an age assessment is conducted, explain these additional messages to the applicant.

  • Information about the method of examination and the procedure.
  • Practical information related to the appointment (address, time).
  • For age assessment involving medical examination, inform the applicant and/or the guardian of the requirement to provide consent to the examination and the possible consequences of a refusal, which will not in any case lead by itself to a rejection decision.
  • The possible consequences that could occur if the applicant is considered an adult as a result of the age assessment procedure. The guarantees for unaccompanied children will be lifted and special procedure might be applied. See the following topics under section 'Next steps if the application is channelled to special examination procedure', Dublin procedure; Subsequent application; Admissibility procedure; Accelerated procedure; Border procedure.