What to Do If Your Asylum Request in France Is Denied

If your asylum application has been rejected, do not lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision to the National Court of Asylum (CNDA). This is a crucial step that could significantly impact the outcome of your case and potentially grant you legal protection in France.

Filing an Appeal: Key Steps

1️⃣ Appeal Deadline: You must submit your appeal within 15 days of receiving the rejection letter from OFPRA. Since this deadline is very short, it is essential to act quickly and efficiently.

2️⃣ Preparing the Appeal: A strong appeal requires additional evidence and legal arguments that were either not considered or not included in your initial application. These may include new documents, testimonies, official statements, or reports proving the dangers you would face if returned to your home country.

3️⃣ Legal Assistance: The appeal process is complex and requires professional legal expertise. The French government provides free legal aid for those who cannot afford a lawyer. You can apply for assistance through the Legal Aid Office (BAJ) at CNDA, where a lawyer can be assigned to your case. If approved, the state may cover part or all of your legal fees.

4️⃣ Appeal Hearing Process: Once your appeal is submitted, the CNDA will review your case. The hearings take place in the presence of judges, lawyers, and sometimes OFPRA representatives. Your lawyer will present your case, defend your right to protection, and argue why the OFPRA decision should be overturned.

5️⃣ Possible Outcomes of the Appeal:

✅ If your appeal is accepted, the OFPRA decision will be overturned, and you may be granted refugee status or another form of protection in France.

❌ If the appeal is rejected, you may still have the option to escalate the case to the French Council of State (Conseil d’État), the highest administrative court in France.

Why Legal Assistance is Essential

Seeking legal advice during the appeal process is one of the most important factors for success. A lawyer will help you properly prepare your documents, structure your arguments, and ensure you are ready for the hearing. They will also explain which pieces of evidence are most critical to strengthening your case.

The success of your appeal depends on the quality of your supporting documents, legal arguments, and the expertise of your lawyer. Every case is reviewed individually, and even if you were denied at the first stage, you still have a real chance of obtaining protection through the appeals process.

Final Thoughts

Appealing an asylum rejection is not just a formality, but a vital and strategic step that can completely change your future. Preparing thoroughly, seeking professional legal support, and utilizing all available resources will maximize your chances of success.

If you need assistance with filing your appeal or a consultation on the process, our team at France Assistance is ready to support you every step of the way.