The stages of the procedure
An asylum claim is registered at the prefecture and then examined by the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA), which invites the applicant to an interview. If the claim is rejected, an appeal may be lodged with the National Court of Asylum (CNDA), in principle within one month of notification of the decision.
OFPRA or the CNDA may recognise refugee status or grant subsidiary protection, depending on the fear of persecution or serious harm in the country of origin.
How the firm can help
- support at the prefecture when the claim is registered;
- preparing the account and file presented to OFPRA, and preparing you for the interview;
- appeals to the CNDA against a rejection, withdrawal or cessation of protection;
- applications for reconsideration;
- appeals to cancel a Dublin III transfer to another Member State.
Confidential support
Asylum often involves painful personal histories. The firm respects strict professional secrecy and takes the time to listen. Maître Salima Dabbaoui spent more than six years in the United Nations system working on international protection issues, at headquarters in Geneva and in the field in Morocco and Lebanon. French and English spoken.
Useful documents
If you have them, gather: identity documents, notices and decisions received, and evidence supporting your account (documents, photographs, statements, medical certificates). If you do not have any, the firm will explain how to proceed.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to appeal to the CNDA?
In principle one month from notification of the OFPRA decision. The exact deadline is stated in the decision; do not wait to get in touch.
Can I get legal aid?
Yes, depending on your resources and the statutory conditions, legal aid may cover all or part of the costs. The firm will tell you whether you may qualify.
What is the Dublin III procedure?
The Dublin III Regulation determines which Member State is responsible for examining an asylum claim. France may decide to transfer you to another State; that decision can be challenged before the administrative court.
Practical guides on this topic
This page provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is different: contact the firm for advice tailored to your case.