People who have been granted refugee status in the UK frequently ask whether or not they can travel to their countries of origin.
In this video Rumbi Bvunzawabaya, Principal Solicitor, RBM Solicitors, answers commonly asked questions on travelling with refugee status.
Ms Bvunzawabaya says that for one to be granted a five-year refugee status, they must declare that they have fear of persecution in their country of origin. It is therefore impossible for a refugee to travel to their country of origin. By doing so, it means that they no longer need protection in the UK.
The same applies to a refugee who has been granted indefinite leave to remain. “That doesn’t mean you stop being a refugee,” Ms Bvunzawabaya says. “You still are a refugee, and therefore cannot safely travel to your country of origin.”
However, the moment you become a British citizen, you can travel to your country of origin. This is because as a British citizen, Ms Bvunzawabaya says, if you face persecution from the local authorities, you can get protection from the British High Commission. Being a British subject, “the British Government can order your release and negotiate on your behalf,” Ms Bvunzawabaya says.
Disclaimer: The above article is meant to be relied upon as an informative article and in no way constitutes legal advice. Information is offered for general information purposes only, based on the current law when the information was first published. You should always seek advice from an appropriately qualified solicitor on any specific legal enquiry. For legal advice regarding your case, please contact Rumbidzai Bvunzawbaya, Tel 02476520999, www.rbmsolicitors.co.uk