Greece has been a frontline country for asylum seekers, offering international protection to individuals fleeing war, persecution, or human rights violations. If you’re considering applying for asylum in Greece, understanding the role and process of the Asylum Service is essential.
🇬🇷 What is the Asylum Service in Greece?
The Asylum Service is the official government body responsible for handling asylum and international protection applications in Greece. It operates under the Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
🔹 Reviews applications for refugee and subsidiary protection
🔹 Issues residence permits for protection status holders
🔹 Manages appeals and legal rights for asylum seekers
🔹 Coordinates reception and integration programs
🧭 Who Can Apply for Asylum in Greece?
Anyone who:
✅ Has fled their home country due to persecution, war, or violence
✅ Fears return due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or group membership
✅ Has arrived in Greece irregularly or at the border
👁️ Asylum must be claimed immediately upon arrival or as soon as possible after entry.
📝 Steps to Apply for Asylum in Greece
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Pre-registration via the Asylum Service website or phone hotline |
| 2️⃣ | Attend registration appointment with an interpreter |
| 3️⃣ | Submit your asylum application and provide fingerprints |
| 4️⃣ | Receive asylum seeker card (valid for 6 months, renewable) |
| 5️⃣ | Attend personal interview explaining your reasons for seeking asylum |
| 6️⃣ | Await decision on refugee or subsidiary protection |
📌 If your claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal within 15 days.
📂 Required Documents
While not mandatory, providing documents can support your claim:
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Passport or ID (if available)
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Proof of persecution (e.g., arrest records, threat letters)
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Medical or psychological reports
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Proof of nationality
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Address in Greece or camp location
🛡️ Rights of Asylum Seekers in Greece
Once you apply, you’re entitled to:
✔️ Legal stay during the process
✔️ Reception/accommodation (in camps or shelters)
✔️ Medical care and psychological support
✔️ Access to free legal aid
✔️ Education for minors
✔️ Limited work rights (after 6 months)
🧑⚖️ Appeals and Legal Support
If your asylum application is denied:
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You can appeal the decision with the help of a lawyer or legal NGO.
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In urgent cases, emergency legal protection (interim measures) may be available through courts.
📞 Organizations like Greek Council for Refugees (GCR) and UNHCR can offer free legal aid.
🌍 What Happens If You’re Granted Asylum?
If your asylum is approved, you receive:
🪪 A residence permit valid for 3 years (refugee) or 1 year (subsidiary protection)
🩺 Access to healthcare and welfare
💼 Right to work in Greece
✈️ Travel within Schengen with restrictions
🏠 Option to apply for family reunification
⚠️ Important Notes
❗Do not miss your interview—rescheduling is very difficult
❗Fake documents or stories can result in rejection or expulsion
❗Your claim is confidential and protected under EU law
🛡️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
Navigating asylum procedures can be overwhelming. We support individuals with:
✅ Pre-application consultation
✅ Document preparation and evidence support
✅ Interview coaching and legal representation
✅ Appeals and emergency protections
✅ Family reunification and residence renewal
💬 Multilingual support available (Arabic, Farsi, French, Spanish, etc.)
🗺️ Contact Points for the Asylum Service
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Website: https://asylum.gov.gr
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Asylum Unit Locations: Athens, Thessaloniki, Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Kos, and others
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Phone Hotline: +30 210 6988600
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UNHCR Help Page: https://help.unhcr.org/greece
📌 Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Fear of persecution in home country |
| Processing Time | Varies: weeks to months |
| Rights | Shelter, healthcare, education, legal support |
| Interview Required? | Yes |
| Travel Rights | Limited within Schengen after approval |
| Legal Aid | Available via NGOs or lawyers |