Which Countries Accept Refugee Travel Documents?

Which Countries Accept Refugee Travel Documents?

Refugee travel documents (RTDs) are issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to refugees who are unable to obtain a passport from their home country. RTDs are valid for travel to all countries that are signatories to the 1951 Refugee Convention, and they can be used to apply for asylum in those countries.

In this article, we will discuss the different countries that accept refugee travel documents, the benefits of having an RTD, and the process for obtaining one. We will also provide tips for refugees who are traveling with an RTD.

The Countries that Accept Refugee Travel Documents

The following countries accept refugee travel documents:

  • Albania
  • Andorra
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • North Macedonia
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Turkey
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

The Benefits of Having an RTD

There are several benefits to having an RTD, including:

  • It allows you to travel to countries that are signatories to the 1951 Refugee Convention. This means that you can travel to most countries in the world without having to worry about being denied entry.
  • It can help you to apply for asylum in a foreign country. Many countries require refugees to have an RTD in order to apply for asylum.
  • It can provide you with proof of your identity and nationality. An RTD is a valid travel document that can be used to prove your identity and nationality to immigration officials.

The Process for Obtaining an RTD

The process for obtaining an RTD varies depending on the country where you are applying. However, the general steps involved are as follows:

1. You must first submit a request for an RTD to the UNHCR.
2. The UNHCR will then review your request and determine if you are eligible for an RTD.
3. If you are eligible, the UNHCR will issue you an RTD.

The processing time for an RTD can vary depending on the country where you are applying. However, it typically takes between 6 and 8 weeks to receive an RTD.

Tips for Refugees Traveling with an RTD

If you are a refugee traveling with an RTD, there are a few things you can do to make your journey easier:

  • Carry your RTD with you at all times. This is the most important thing you can do to ensure that you are able to travel without any problems.
  • Make sure your RTD is valid. Your RTD must be valid for the duration of your trip.
  • Be prepared to show your RTD to immigration officials. Immigration officials may ask to see your RTD when you enter or leave a country.
  • Be polite and respectful to immigration officials. This will help to ensure that your journey goes smoothly.

By following these tips, you can make your journey as smooth as possible.

Country Refugee Travel Document Notes
Afghanistan Yes Refugees must have a valid passport or travel document issued by the Afghan government.
Albania Yes Refugees must have a valid passport or travel document issued by the Albanian government.
Algeria Yes Refugees must have a valid passport or travel document issued by the Algerian government.
Andorra Yes Refugees must have a valid passport or travel document issued by the Andorran government.
Angola Yes Refugees must have a valid passport or travel document issued by the Angolan government.

Overview of Refugee Travel Documents

Definition of a Refugee Travel Document

A refugee travel document is a travel document issued to refugees who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin. Refugee travel documents are issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or by national governments.

Purpose of a Refugee Travel Document

Refugee travel documents are issued for the following purposes:

  • To allow refugees to travel internationally for resettlement, family reunification, or other purposes.
  • To provide refugees with proof of identity and nationality.
  • To facilitate the issuance of other travel documents, such as passports.

Types of Refugee Travel Documents

There are two main types of refugee travel documents:

  • UNHCR travel documents: These documents are issued by the UNHCR and are valid for one year. They can be renewed for up to five years.
  • National refugee travel documents: These documents are issued by national governments and are valid for different lengths of time, depending on the country.

Issuing Authorities for Refugee Travel Documents

The UNHCR is the main authority for issuing refugee travel documents. However, national governments may also issue refugee travel documents to refugees who are nationals of their country.

Countries that Accept Refugee Travel Documents

List of Countries that Accept Refugee Travel Documents

The following is a list of countries that accept refugee travel documents:

  • Afghanistan
  • Albania
  • Algeria
  • Angola
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bahamas
  • Bahrain
  • Bangladesh
  • Barbados
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Belize
  • Benin
  • Bhutan
  • Bolivia
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Botswana
  • Brazil
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Burkina Faso
  • Burundi
  • Cabo Verde
  • Cambodia
  • Cameroon
  • Canada
  • Central African Republic
  • Chad
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Comoros
  • Congo
  • Costa Rica
  • Cte d’Ivoire
  • Croatia
  • Cuba
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Denmark
  • Djibouti
  • Dominica
  • Dominican Republic
  • Ecuador
  • Egypt
  • El Salvador
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Eritrea
  • Estonia
  • Eswatini
  • Ethiopia
  • Fiji
  • Finland
  • France
  • Gabon
  • Gambia
  • Georgia
  • Germany
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Grenada
  • Guatemala
  • Guinea
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • Guyana
  • Haiti
  • Honduras
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Jamaica
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kenya
  • Kiribati
  • Kuwait
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Laos
  • Latvia
  • Lebanon
  • Lesotho
  • Liberia
  • Libya
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Malaysia
  • Maldives
  • Mali
  • Malta
  • Marshall Islands
  • Mauritania
  • Mauritius
  • Mexico
  • Micronesia
  • Moldova
  • Monaco
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Morocco
  • Mozambique
  • Myanmar
  • Namibia
  • Nauru
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nicaragua
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • North Korea
  • North Macedonia
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Palau
  • Palestine
  • Panama
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Qatar
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Rwanda
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis
  • Saint Lucia
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Samoa
  • San Marino
  • So Tom and Prncipe
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Senegal
  • Serbia
  • Seychelles
  • Sierra Leone
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Solomon Islands
  • Somalia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • South Sudan
  • Spain
  • Sri Lanka
  • Sudan
  • Suriname
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Syria
  • Taiwan
  • Tajikistan
  • Tanzania
  • Thailand
  • Timor-Leste
  • Togo
  • Tonga
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • Turkmenistan
  • Tuvalu
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Uruguay
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vanuatu
  • Vatican City
  • Venezuela
  • Vietnam
  • Yemen
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Requirements for Obtaining a Refugee Travel Document from Each Country

The requirements for obtaining a refugee travel document

3. How to Get a Refugee Travel Document

The application process for a refugee travel document can vary depending on the country where you are applying. However, the following steps are generally involved:

1. Gather the required documents. The required documents will vary depending on the country where you are applying, but may include a copy of your passport, your refugee status determination document, and a police clearance certificate.
2. Complete the application form. The application form will also vary depending on the country where you are applying, but will typically ask for information about your personal details, your travel plans, and your reasons for needing a refugee travel document.
3. Pay the application fee. The application fee will vary depending on the country where you are applying.
4. Submit your application. You can submit your application in person at a designated embassy or consulate, or by mail.

Fees for a Refugee Travel Document

The fees for a refugee travel document vary depending on the country where you are applying. However, the fees are typically between \$50 and \$100.

Processing time for a Refugee Travel Document

The processing time for a refugee travel document can vary depending on the country where you are applying. However, the processing time is typically between 2 and 6 weeks.

4. Tips for Traveling with a Refugee Travel Document

When traveling with a refugee travel document, it is important to be prepared for any challenges that you may face. Here are a few tips to help you make your trip as smooth as possible:

  • Prepare for your trip. Before you travel, make sure that you have all of the necessary documents, including your refugee travel document, your passport, and your visa (if required). You should also research the country you are visiting to learn about the local laws and customs.
  • Travel with your refugee travel document. Make sure that you always carry your refugee travel document with you when you travel. You may be asked to show your refugee travel document at border control or other checkpoints.
  • Deal with border control. When you arrive at a border control checkpoint, be prepared to show your refugee travel document and other identification documents. You may also be asked to answer questions about your travel plans. Be polite and cooperative, and explain that you are a refugee traveling with a refugee travel document.
  • Stay safe while traveling. When you are traveling, it is important to take precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t travel alone at night. If you are ever in danger, don’t hesitate to call the police or other authorities.

A refugee travel document is an important document that can help you travel safely and legally. If you are a refugee, it is important to know how to get a refugee travel document and how to use it when you travel. By following the tips in this article, you can make your trip as smooth as possible.

Which countries accept refugee travel documents?

  • United States
  • Canada
  • European Union
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Switzerland
  • Norway
  • Sweden
  • Denmark
  • Finland

What is a refugee travel document?

A refugee travel document is a travel document issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to refugees who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin. Refugee travel documents are valid for one year and can be renewed.

How do I get a refugee travel document?

To apply for a refugee travel document, you must first be registered with the UNHCR. Once you are registered, you can apply for a refugee travel document at your local UNHCR office. The application process typically takes several weeks.

**What countries can I travel to with a refugee travel document?

The countries that accept refugee travel documents vary depending on the country that issued the document. However, most countries in the world will accept refugee travel documents.

**Can I work in a country with a refugee travel document?

In most countries, you can work with a refugee travel document. However, you may need to obtain a work permit from the government of the country you are in.

**Can I study in a country with a refugee travel document?

In most countries, you can study with a refugee travel document. However, you may need to obtain a student visa from the government of the country you are in.

**Can I get married in a country with a refugee travel document?

In most countries, you can get married with a refugee travel document. However, you may need to obtain a marriage license from the government of the country you are in.

**Can I have children in a country with a refugee travel document?

Yes, you can have children in a country with a refugee travel document. However, your children will not automatically be granted refugee status. They will need to apply for refugee status on their own.

**What happens if my refugee travel document expires?

If your refugee travel document expires, you can renew it at your local UNHCR office. The renewal process typically takes several weeks.

**What if I lose my refugee travel document?

If you lose your refugee travel document, you can apply for a replacement document at your local UNHCR office. The application process typically takes several weeks.

**What is the difference between a refugee travel document and a passport?

A refugee travel document is a temporary travel document issued by the UNHCR, while a passport is a travel document issued by a government. A refugee travel document is valid for one year, while a passport is valid for several years. A refugee travel document cannot be used to travel to all countries, while a passport can be used to travel to most countries.

the list of countries that accept refugee travel documents is constantly changing. It is important to check the latest information before traveling. Additionally, it is important to note that even if a country accepts refugee travel documents, there may be other restrictions on entry, such as a visa requirement. By being aware of these factors, refugees can make informed decisions about their travel plans.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.