Free legal information
During your asylum procedure and any possible appeal process, you have the right to receive legal information. Depending on the stage of the procedure, different types of assistance and representation are available to you.
This page explains who can support you at each stage of your procedure, what assistance is available, and how you can access this help.
Who will help you during the first phase of your asylum procedure?
If you have applied for international protection (asylum) in Austria and have not yet received a decision from the BFA, you have the right to free legal counselling.
Legal counselling can help you understand the procedure and your situation. This means you can receive general information on:
- your rights and obligations in the asylum procedure
- the different procedures
- general legal questions regarding the asylum procedure
The legal counselling is offered by the BBU GmBH.
As a rule, it takes place in a group with other applicants who are in a similar situation and speak the same language. Legal counselling is not the same as having a personal lawyer. During a legal counselling session, you cannot receive targeted guidance on your own specific case.
If you would like to receive legal counselling, you must fill out a form. Click on the button below to open the form.
Who will help you during the appeal procedure?
You can request a legal adviser free of charge during the appeal. This service is provided to you by the BBU GmbH.
A legal adviser is independent from the authorities and defends your interests.
Legal assistance and representation during the appeal includes:
- advising you on your next steps
- preparing the appeal documents
- explaining your case and helping you present it
- supporting you during a court hearing, if applicable
A legal adviser can also represent you in your case. This means they can speak and act for you under national law. They can access your case file and the information used to make decisions about your application.
Your legal adviser can also visit you and support you in places such as reception centres, detention facilities, or transit zones.
Who else can help you?
It is your right to consult a legal adviser at any stage of the asylum procedure at your own expense.
A legal adviser is a person providing personal legal assistance or representation to you in dealing with the authorities. A legal adviser is independent from the authorities and defends your interests. A legal adviser can assist you with your application for international protection, with the asylum procedure, with official communication and they can stay with you during the personal interview.
Share the details of your legal adviser with the authorities so that they can keep them informed about your application.