Refugee and asylum support

Last checked: October 2026. This page only links to official and international humanitarian organisations.

Some people don't choose to move — they have to. If you are fleeing war, violence or persecution, you may be able to ask for international protection (refugee status or asylum). This is not a visa, and it is not something we sell or guide you through.

How is this different from a visa?

• Visas are permits you apply for in advance, usually with income, fees and paperwork.
• Asylum is a legal right under the 1951 Refugee Convention. Asking for it is free. Be cautious of anyone charging to "guarantee" refugee status.
• You generally ask for asylum at a border or once inside the country, through that country's official process.

International organisations

• UNHCR Help — country-by-country information on asking for asylum and finding support.
• IOM (International Organization for Migration) — UN migration agency.
• ICRC Restoring Family Links — finding family members separated by conflict or disaster.

Official asylum information by region

• European Union: Common European Asylum System
• EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA)
• United States: USCIS refugees and asylum
• Canada: refugees and asylum
• United Kingdom: claim asylum

What about my pets?

Pet entry rules still apply in a crisis, but some countries have made emergency exceptions — for example, the EU allowed simplified entry for pets of people fleeing Ukraine in 2022. Ask the border or veterinary authority of the country you're entering. For EU rules, see the European Commission pet movement page.

We are not a legal or humanitarian service. For your specific situation, contact UNHCR or the official asylum authority of the country concerned.