The importance of documentation
Every person, regardless of age, must be documented. Asylum-seekers and refugees will receive a UNHCR document when they open their claim for asylum. When you complete your registration interview with UNHCR you will receive a UNHCR card. The UNHCR card indicates to local authorities that you are an asylum-seeker or refugee, and should not be forcibly returned to your country of origin.
You must ensure that your UNHCR identification document is valid and that you carry it with you at ALL times.
Forgery of Documents
Forged documents can negatively impact you asylum claim. Ensure that all identification and supporting evidence you provide are verifiable.
Forgery of documents will be reported to the authorities. If you are offered fraudulent UNHCR documentation, report the situation to UNHCR at [email protected] as soon as possible.
Renewals of UNHCR documents
If you need to renew your UNHCR Card, you can visit the UNHCR Registration Centre from Monday to Friday between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.
If you have a UNHCR certificate (paper document), you can email [email protected] to request a registration appointment.
Lost or Stolen Asylum Documents
If your UNHCR documents have been lost, robbed, deteriorated, confiscated or destroyed, you should immediately contact UNHCR at [email protected].