Refugee Travel Document

Refugee Travel Document (Convention Travel Document)

A Refugee Travel Document, also known as a 1951 Convention Travel Document or Geneva Passport, is issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status. This travel document allows refugees to travel internationally and return to their country of residence, which, in this case, is the UK.

Eligibility for a Refugee Travel Document

To apply for a Refugee Travel Document in the UK, you must meet the following requirements:

1.Legally Resident in the UK: You must be legally residing in the UK and have been granted refugee status here. This status must be confirmed before you can apply for the travel document.

2.Permission to Stay: You must have permission to stay in the UK for at least six months from the date of your application. This is essential because many countries may not accept your refugee travel document if you do not have enough time remaining on your permission to return to the UK. If your current permission is set to expire in less than six months, you will need to apply for an extension of your stay before you can submit your application for the travel document.

3.No National Security Concerns: The UKBA will generally issue the refugee travel document unless there are significant reasons to refuse, such as national security concerns. This document is granted as long as there are no exceptional reasons for refusal.

Restrictions on the Refugee Travel Document

•Cannot Travel to Your Country of Origin or Country of Asylum: Except in exceptional circumstances, you cannot use the Convention Travel Document to travel to your country of origin or the country from which you sought asylum. This is to ensure that your refugee status remains protected, and you are not exposed to potential harm in your home country or the country from which you fled.

•Use for Travel to Other Countries: The document is typically valid for travel to most other countries. However, before you make any travel arrangements, it’s always important to confirm with the embassy of your destination country, as some countries may require a visa for entry, even with the refugee travel document.

Duration of the Refugee Travel Document

•For Adults with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): If you have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, your Refugee Travel Document will generally be valid for 10 years.

•For Adults with Limited Leave to Remain: If you have temporary permission to stay in the UK (known as Limited Leave to Remain), your travel document will typically be valid for the same period as your leave, up to a maximum of 5 years.

•For Children: Children cannot be named on the travel document of their parent or guardian. A Refugee Travel Document must be issued separately to a child. The validity for children will typically be:

•5 years if the child has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.

•Same period as the child’s leave if the child has Limited Leave to Remain, but not exceeding 5 years.

Visa Requirements for Travel

Even though a Refugee Travel Document allows you to travel internationally, you may still need to obtain a visa for certain countries. This depends on the travel restrictions and agreements between the UK and the destination country.

•Check with Embassies: Before making travel arrangements, it’s important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit to confirm whether you will need a visa.

•Countries that Do Not Require a Visa: Some countries may allow you to enter without a visa for visits of up to three months. If your travel document indicates that a visa is not required, the countries listed on page 30 of your travel document should be consulted for updates. The list of countries can change, so always double-check with the relevant embassy before planning your travel.

How to Apply for a Refugee Travel Document

1.Complete the Application: You will need to fill out an application form for the Refugee Travel Document and submit it to the Home Office. Be prepared to provide personal details, your refugee status confirmation, and the necessary documents to support your application.

2.Supporting Documents: Along with your application, you will need to provide evidence such as:

•Proof of refugee status in the UK.

•Proof of your identity.

•Documents showing your permission to stay in the UK for at least six months.

3.Biometric Information: As part of the application process, you will need to provide your biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs for the travel document.

4.Processing Time: The processing time for a Refugee Travel Document can vary, but it typically takes several weeks. It is important to plan your travel well in advance to ensure that you receive your travel document in time.

Why Seek Legal Assistance?

Navigating the process of applying for a Refugee Travel Document can be complex, especially when you need to ensure that all requirements are met and that your documentation is correct. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can help ensure that:

•Your application is submitted correctly and that you meet all eligibility criteria.

•Your supporting documents are properly prepared and included.

•You are aware of any restrictions or conditions that may affect your ability to travel.

Contact Us Today

If you need assistance with your Refugee Travel Document application or have questions about the process, contact us today. Our expert immigration lawyers will guide you through the application, ensuring that you have the necessary documentation to travel and re-enter the UK without delays. We are here to help you secure your right to travel and to navigate the complexities of immigration law. Let us help you move forward with confidence.