Pre-Registration
Pre-Registration is the first step toward Family Reunification, Relocation or asylum in Greece.
How do I pre-register?
If you are on the mainland in Greece and have not yet pre-registered, you can apply for asylum by contacting the Greek Asylum Service via Skype.
When you can call the Asylum Service through Skype is based on your nationality and native language. Find the Skype schedule here.
If you are having trouble understanding the Skype schedule, you can send a message to Refugee.Info on Facebook and we will help you.
Pre-Registration is free.
During your Skype call, the Asylum Service will:
- Take your photo
- Ask you for your name and other personal information
- Give you the date and location of your Full Registration appointment
- Give you and each member of your family a Pre-Registration number
What happens after I pre-register through Skype?
One day after your Skype call, pick up your Pre-Registration card at the Asylum Office where your Full Registration appointment will be.
Keep this card safe and do not give it to anyone else.
Note: When you go to the Asylum Service to get your Pre-Registration card, you will also be fingerprinted.
What rights does the Pre-Registration card give me?
- You can live legally in Greece until the Asylum Service has made a decision on your asylum claim.
- You can move freely in Greece.
- Your children can go to school for free.
- You can stay in a camp or accommodation on the mainland for free.
- You can choose to live in alternative accommodation that you have found and pay for yourself.
- You can access the cash program.
- You can get an AMKA
You cannot leave Greece until you get a decision on your asylum application.
When will my Full Registration appointment be?
Your Full Registration appointment will likely be months after you pre-register. The date of your appointment depends on:
- The date you entered Greece, as stated on your police note
- The language you speak
- Whether you are applying for asylum in Greece, Family Reunification or Relocation
The Greek government prioritizes people considered "vulnerable” under Greek law. Learn who is considered vulnerable here.
If you have been arrested
If you were arrested on the Greek mainland, you can start the asylum procedure by declaring your intention to apply for asylum before the police and/or Reception and Identification Service authorities. Your request will be referred to the Asylum Office, which will invite you to submit your asylum application in person.