Frequently asked questions about special support
Here you can find answers to the most important questions about special support for children without parents, families or other vulnerable persons in the asylum process.
The answers on this page explain who can support you, what your rights are, and what may happen in different situations. This helps you understand what to expect and where to get help when you need it.
If you are under 18 years old and you came without your parents, you are called an “unaccompanied child”. This means you get extra help and protection. Adults must take care of you and make sure you are safe.
Learn more about this here.
A special person called a representative will help you. The representative is there to support you, explain things, and make sure you are treated fairly. They are not your parent, but they will look after your best interests.
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Your representative helps you understand what is happening. They go with you to meetings, explain your rights, help you make decisions, and support you with school, doctors, and contact with your family.
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Yes. What you say is private. It is not shared with people in your home country or with people you are afraid of. It is only shared if there is a serious safety reason.
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Many people can help you:
- case workers of the BFA will review your asylum application
- reception staff can support you during your stay but cannot influence your asylum application
- social workers help you with daily life
- doctors and nurses help you when you are sick
- psychologists help you if you feel sad or worried
- legal advisers help you understand your rights
- interpreters help you understand the language
Learn more about this here.
You will talk to trained officers. They will ask questions about you and your journey. Your representative will be with you. They want to understand your situation and help make a fair decision.
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Tell the authorities if you have family in another country. This is important. Sometimes it may be possible for you to stay with them or be reunited with them.
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Yes. You can ask your representative or staff to help you find your family. Special organisations can help search for them safely. You may also be able to contact them if you know where they are.
Learn more about this here.
If you are sick, hurt, pregnant, have a disability, or feel very sad or scared, tell the staff or your representative. You can get extra help and support to feel better and stay safe.
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Sometimes, rules can limit where people stay. In some rare cases, people may have to stay in a specific place or even be in detention. But even then, you still have rights. You can ask for help, talk to a lawyer, and appeal decisions.
Learn more about this here.