The agency responsible for protection

The French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons examines asylum applications and provides protection for refugees, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection and stateless persons, in accordance with the applicable rules.

Examination and appeals

The examination of an asylum application focuses on the applicant’s personal circumstances and the risks cited. OFPRA’s asylum decisions can be challenged before the National Court of Asylum, within the prescribed time limits and under the stipulated conditions. Procedures relating to statelessness follow a separate framework.

Do not confuse the authorities

OFPRA decides on protection. OFII is involved in reception and integration, among other areas, while the prefecture is responsible for various residence-related procedures. An asylum application is neither an ordinary application for a residence permit nor an application for naturalisation.