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The Netherlands is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and European Union law, with Amsterdam being its largest city and capital. Asylum Law in Amsterdam falls under the broader framework of Dutch and EU asylum policies. The Asylum procedure in the Netherlands is designed to be efficient, ensuring that those in genuine need of protection are identified promptly. Individuals can lodge a request for asylum upon arrival, either at a Dutch border or in the country's immigration detention centers.
Asylum law involves complex procedures and interpretations of laws and guidelines at both the local and international levels. The application for asylum involves numerous interviews and a detailed personal account of your reasons for seeking asylum. You may need a lawyer's assistance to prepare for the interviews, understand the law, protect your rights, and to help appeal your case if the first request is denied. A lawyer well-versed in asylum laws can also make sure that your case is presented accurately and persuasively to strengthen your chances of protection.
The Dutch Aliens Act and Aliens Decree form the basis of asylum law in the Netherlands. Importantly, The Netherlands offers two types of asylum permits; the A-status (Refugee Status) and the B-status (Subsidiary Protection). You may be granted A-status if you are feared to face persecution because of race, religion, nationality, political beliefs or because you belong to a particular social group. B-status is granted if you risk facing serious harm in your country of origin for specific detailed reasons.
The asylum procedure usually takes around six months, but it can take longer for complex cases or if further investigation is needed.
After six months from the date you applied for asylum, you're allowed to work in the Netherlands for up to 24 weeks per year, provided your application is still being processed.
If your application is denied, you can appeal to the Dutch court. If you're unsuccessful, you will have to leave the Netherlands. Legal assistance is available for the appeal process.
If you're granted asylum in the Netherlands, you can apply for family reunification. There are specific requirements for this process, and legal assistance is recommended.
Yes, asylum seekers are encouraged to study or follow courses while their application is being processed.
The Dutch Council for Refugees is a crucial organization offering advice, information, and practical assistance to refugees and asylum seekers. Access to legal assistance is available through Asylum Lawyers known as 'Vluchtelingen Advocaten'. The UAF provides financial and other support to refugees who wish to study. The Dutch immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) website offers extensive resources on asylum procedures in the Netherlands.
If you believe you will need legal assistance in your asylum application, the first step is to locate a qualified asylum lawyer or legal aid organization. Prepare by gathering all relevant information and documents related to your case. Also, stay informed about the latest changes to the asylum laws in the country. Dutch Council for Refugees, 'Vluchtelingen Advocaten', and IND are suitable points of contact to get started.
