Resettlement is an instrument and symbol of international solidarity and burden sharing to find a durable solution for refugees who are unable to return to their country of origin for fear of continued persecution and do not have the option to stay in their country of asylum. Founded in 1951 to assist in the resettlement of Europeans displaced in the aftermath of World War II, IOM has provided essential services in support of refugee resettlement operations for over six decades. In the last decade alone, IOM has organized resettlement movements of 892,243 refugees from 186 locations around the world.

Case Processing

IOM Case Processing services are designed to help refugee applicants in lodging correct and complete applications for refugee status and assist governments by providing selection authorities with accurate, detailed and objective information in standard formats in order to streamline the interview and selection process. 

Health Assessments and Travel Health Assistance

Health Assessments and Travel Health Assistance ensures that refugees are fit to travel and meet the requirements of the resettlement country. Health assessment protocols are based on the legislation and/or best practices of resettlement country governments, and are performed prior to a refugee’s departure for resettlement. Pre-departure refugee health assessments are intended to ensure that people travel in a safe and dignified manner, are fit to travel, receive appropriate assistance when required, and do not pose a hazard to other travelers or receiving communities.

Pre-Departure Orientation/Integration

Cultural orientation prepares refugees by providing practical information on country of destination, and assists refugees in setting realistic goals and developing the skills and attitudes needed to succeed in their new environment. Topics addressed in the orientation include housing, health, money management, role of settlement service providers, education, cultural adaptation, rights and responsibilities, and others. Pre-embarkation briefings prepare refugees for their flight, including what to expect at the airport, in‐flight, while in transit, and upon arrival in country of destination.

Movement/Travel Operations

IOM’s movement and travel operations ensure that refugees are transported smoothly from remote, often far-flung locations to their final resettlement destinations. Movement services for refugees traveling under IOM auspices may include: Obtaining travel documents; Transportation to and passenger handling at embarkation airports; arrangement of international and domestic air tickets; provision of operational/medical escorts; Assistance in transit as well as arrival assistance.

Material
Completed Project

Humanitarian Admission Programme for Syrian Refugees

Contact

IOM Austria, Operations Unit

iomviennaoperations@iom.int

+43 (0) 1 585 33 22