Voluntary return means that the asylum seeker accepts the decision and travels out of the country before the deadline for leaving the country expires. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) initiated its voluntary return programme on 15 April 2002. The programme is geared towards people who have had their application for asylum rejected or withdraw their asylum application, and who wish to return to their country of origin.

 

If you have received a final rejection of your application for asylum/residence in Norway and do not leave voluntarily, you will be escorted out of the country. The police are responsible for escorting you out of the country.  If you have more than 20 kg of baggage, you must pay the shipping costs for the extra baggage.

 

The basic rule is that you yourself must pay the cost of leaving the country. If you are not able to pay for the ticket, the state will pay the costs. You will be obliged to repay the cost of the ticket if you apply to come to Norway again at a later date.

 

In order to travel on the IOM programme, you must complete and send in an application form and a declaration stating that you are travelling voluntarily. This must be done before the deadline for leaving the country. More information on voluntary return and help with filling in the application form can be obtained from reception centre employees, the UDI, IOM or INCOR.

 

IOM can help you with planning, ordering tickets and obtaining travel documents if you have none. You can also receive assistance during the journey, on arrival in your country of origin and you can receive travel expenses if necessary. Travel to your country of origin is free of charge and you will not incur any debt to the Norwegian state.
  
You are only allowed to take 20 kg of baggage with you on the plane. You must pay for excess baggage yourself. To avoid this, your baggage can be sent by post or sent in advance. Reception centre staff can help you find the cheapest way of sending your baggage.

 

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

IOM’s information service is open on weekdays from 13.00-17.00.
Phone: (+ 47) 23 10 53 22
 
Opening hours for visitors Fridays 10.00-12.00 at

Storgt. 10A, floor 2.
IOM’s switchboard: phone (+47) 23 10 53 20