Guidelines for newcomers

 

 

 

LGTBQI refugees come from many different regions of the world.

 

Being here for the first time may be confusing at first, especially if you are from a different cultural background.

 

 

Here is a short first-step guide if you feel confused.

 

 

1.Filing an asylum application

 

In Germany, there are several ways for refugees to obtain protection. According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to seek asylum from persecution in other countries.

 

Persecution based on sexual orientation is recognized as a reason for asylum in Germany. Persecution based on gender identity can also be recognised as a reason for asylum.

 

 

HIV infection can be a reason for deportation because it is a serious and life-threatening disease.

 

 

After your arrival in Germany, you must first report to a state office (e.g. police, immigration office) or an arrival centre and inform them that you wish to apply for asylum. This is called an “asylum application”. The authorities will then direct you to a contact point for asylum seekers.

 

 

In any case, you should ask for copies of your personal documents, which you had to hand in at the arrival centre. You will then receive a “proof of arrival” as a document, which is there to prove your identity to the authorities. You file your asylum application at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). There, an Interview will be held. You will be given the date for this interview at the Arrivals Centre of the reception centre. When you register with the BAMF, you will receive your personal file number, which formally initiates the asylum procedure.

 

 

 

2. Accomodation and Welfare

 

The Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz (AsylbLG) applies to people in the asylum process. They are entitled to financial support and medical care.

 

After filing the asylum application you will receive a residence permit. For the first six weeks you are obliged to live in the first reception facility. After a maximum of six month, asylum seekers are usually accommodated in shared dormitories.

 

 

 

3.Healthcare

 

Health insurance plays an important role in the German healthcare system.

 

Persons entitled to asylum, recognised refugees, people entitled to subsidiary protection and people who have a residence permit in Germany because of a national deportation ban are entitled to benefits according to the Sozialgesetzbuch II. This also includes Health insurance.

 

Asylum seekers, persons obliged to leave the country and tolerated persons are not covered by statuary health insurance for the first few months after their arrival in Germany. Still, they are entitled to certain medical services paid for by the state under the “Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz”. This also includes undocumented migrants.

 

 

 

Tip: If you don't know how to apply for health insure a, it's best to seek advice from a migrant organization or refugee help. You can find the addresses here. Don't forget to take all the documents you have with you!