[NOTICE] Some Arab refugee applicant opportunity to reapply for refugee
Background :
Few years ago, some refugee interviews in Arabic were wrong. Some statements not made by refugee applicants were written in the interview reports (http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20190619000778&ACE_SEARCH=1).
Before July 2018, most refugee interviews were not videotaped. So it is unclear whether someone is a victim or not.
Therefore, refugee applicants who did refugee interviews in Arabic between September 1, 2015 and June 30, 2018 will be given another chance for a re-application.Because their previous interview reports may be wrong.
Who the policy applies to :
People who were interviewed between September 1, 2015 to June 30, 2018 in Arabic.
Doesn’t matter whether the person has an ID card, or is illegal.
How the policy applies :
If you apply, you will be treated as if it is your first application.
G-1-5 visa will be issued (ID card will be given). This applies even if you get extension on the paper, or if you are illegal.
You will be given work permits without the 6 month waiting period.
Other benefits, such as living expense support and entry to Immigration facility, will be given according to the same procedure as before.
For people who are illegal:
All fines for staying or working illegally will be waived.
If you have committed other crimes, you can still be punished according to law.
If you are locked up inside Immigration Office custody, you will not be released, but your case will go through expedited processing.
Your fine will only be waived this one time. If you stay or work illegally again, you will not get any special treatment.
When to apply :
From February 10, 2020 until all applications are processed.
You should apply for refugee status, and also separately apply for the visa.
How do you fill out refugee applications :
If your reason for refugee status is not changed, you can re-write what you wrote in the first refugee application, and submit it. You can ask to the immigration office for a copy of the refugee application paper, refugee interview report, and any documents that you have submitted for your first refugee case.
If you have any new reason to apply for refugee, please add them to your new refugee application.
How can get legal assistance :
If you are a refugee applicant who did refugee interviews in Arabic between September 1, 2015 and June 30, 2018, and need help, please call 010-5125-0217 or send email to refugeecase@gmail.com
A basic guideline for filling out the application will be provided. Whether you can receive a more detailed assistance and legal aid will be determined after consultation.
NGOs working for refugees will provide counseling and legal assistance, free of charge.