Step One Arrival Asylum-seekers first report to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) at Ter Apel, then are transferred to a reception center. This is where their application process will begin. If an asylum-seeker arrives at Schiphol (Royal Netherlands Marechaussee) they are subject to initial detainment before beginning the formal asylum procedure. Those from safe countries of origin or are protected by another EU member state a special accelerated asylum procedure applies.
Step Two Asylum Process Begins Asylum seekers are given at least 6 days to recover from their journey. Before the formal begins, during this time they are provided with additional information about the interview process with the IND. Asylum seekers are appointed a lawyer and a medical declaration to use during their asylum procedure.
Step Three General Asylum Procedure The asylum process lasts approximately 4-8 days. During which two interviews with the IND are held. Asylum-seekers are accompanied by their lawyer and explain their identity, the reason for fleeing their country of origin, and the journey to The Netherlands. Afterward, the IND makes a decision on the asylum application. If there is not sufficient information the case will enter an extended asylum procedure or prolonged asylum procedure.
Residency Permit If the IND grants a permit, the person seeking asylum is placed in a center until housing becomes available. Thus the asylum status is updated to recognize a refugee status allowing for a ‘temporary asylum permit’ to be granted. The permit is granted for five years, although the decision can be overturned if the circumstances in the country of origin is deemed safe for return. If the process is prolonged or asylum status is denied, one may utilize the lawyer assigned during the asylum process to revoke the decision, whereby they remain int eh asylum-seeking center until further notice. Or refugees begin the deportation process.
Housing in Municipality Each municipality must provide housing for refugees. The number of refugees housed in each municipality is determined by the Ministry of Interior, this is dependent on the number of citizens in each municipality. Municipalities must provide housing within three months, otherwise, sanctions can be placed. Personal circumstances are taken into consideration when assigning housing based on employment, medical circumstances, studies, and family.