Request for legal advice regarding my situation as a rejected asylum seeker in the Netherlands
As a rejected asylum seeker in the Netherlands, it's understandable that you need legal advice. Below, I explain the steps you can take, your rights, and how you can get support in your situation.
What does a rejection of your asylum application mean?
A rejection means that the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) has rejected your asylum application because they believe you do not meet the requirements for asylum. This can be based on:
- Insufficient evidence that you are at risk in your home country.
- A safe country of origin , which means you are not entitled to protection.
- Dublin Regulation , if another European country is responsible for your asylum application.
What can you do after a rejection?
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File a legal objection
- You can appeal the IND's decision within four weeks (or one week in expedited procedures). A lawyer can assist you with this.
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Filing an appeal with the court
- If your objection is rejected, you can appeal to the court. This must be done within the timeframe stated in the decision.
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Appeal
- If the court rejects your appeal, you can appeal to the Council of State , the highest administrative court in the Netherlands.
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Repeated asylum application
- If new facts or circumstances arise (for example, new threats), you can submit a repeat asylum application . This is called a "follow-up procedure."
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Voluntary return
- You may consider returning voluntarily to your country of origin. Organizations such as the IOM (International Organization for Migration) can assist you with this.
Where can you get legal advice?
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Free legal aid
- In the Netherlands, you are entitled to free legal assistance if you have no income. The government then pays for a lawyer through the Legal Aid Board .
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Dutch Refugee Council
- This organization offers guidance and support to asylum seekers and can help you with your application or objection procedure.
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Legal aid clinics and NGOs
- You can contact organizations such as the Legal Desks or local legal aid offices for free advice.
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Lawyers specializing in immigration law
- Find a lawyer with experience in asylum and migration matters. You can do this through the Dutch Bar Association or by asking for recommendations from the Dutch Council for Refugees.
Important tips
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Actions within the timeframe
- It is crucial to act quickly as legal proceedings are subject to strict deadlines.
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Collecting evidence
- Gather as much evidence as possible that supports your situation, such as reports, letters or witness statements.
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Protection against eviction
- Inform your lawyer if there is a possibility of deportation. They can file a request to temporarily halt the process.
Conclusion
A rejection of your asylum application is a difficult situation, but there are legal options for appealing or taking other steps. Seek legal advice quickly and work with a lawyer or support organization to protect your rights.
