Norway

A record in voluntary returns

“It is gratifying to note that the measures we have taken to increase the number of voluntary returns appear to be working,” says Anne Siri Rustad, Head of Department in the Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

During the three first months of this year, 352 persons have returned home with the help of the Norwegian authorities and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). This is the highest figure since the voluntary return programme commenced in 2002.

Financial support

The majority of those who chose voluntary return were from Iraq, Kosovo and Serbia. Citizens from these countries who return voluntarily receive NOK 10,000 in reintegration support. It is intended that the amount of NOK 10,000 per person shall contribute towards easing the initial period after return.

For persons from Iraq and Afghanistan there is a special return programme that includes more comprehensive financial support for reintegration in their home country.

Obligation to return

Asylum seekers who have received final rejection of their application for protection are under obligation to leave the country. If they fail to leave, the police will take care of transport and return. It is better for all parties if persons who have received final rejection of their applications take an active choice and return voluntarily with financial help and support. Those who are escorted out of the country by the police do not receive any financial support.

• Are you from Iraq?
• Are you from Afghanistan?
• Other countries?

UDI = Norwegian Directorate of Immigration