The 2nd interview with the IND

Last updated: 3/16/2023, 1:40 PM

You have the 2nd interview with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This is an important interview for your asylum application. You explain in detail why you fled. You will be appointed a lawyer and undergo a medical examination.

You will be appointed a lawyer for the 2nd interview

You do not have to find this lawyer yourself. The Legal Aid Board (RvR) will arrange a lawyer for you. The lawyer will have experience with the asylum procedure. You do not have to pay for the lawyer.

It does not matter if the lawyer speaks the same language as you. There will always be an interpreter present during your appointments. The lawyer will discuss the 1st interview with the IND with you and help you to prepare for the 2nd interview.

If you want to arrange a lawyer yourself and a lawyer takes your case, they must let the RvR know. The RvR will then no longer look for a lawyer. If you arrange a lawyer yourself, this is also free.

You will have a medical examination before the 2nd interview

A nurse from the independent organisation MediFirst examines whether you are physically and mentally healthy enough for the 2nd interview with the

IND
.

Read below about what happens in the medical examination:

  • During the interview, the IND asks questions about the reasons why you fled. The IND also asks further questions about your answers.

  • Be honest, and explain in detail and clearly about why you fled.

  • The IND is aware of the general situation in your country. Tell them why you personally need protection.

  • Sometimes it is difficult to talk about your flight. Explain this clearly to the IND if you find it difficult to talk about anything, or if there is something you do not remember.

  • If you have any scars or physical or psychological complaints related to your flight, tell the IND this. The IND may offer you a medical examination.

  • You can be heard by an interpreter and IND employee of your own gender if you wish.

  • A VWN employee may be present at the interview if you wish.

    VWN
    will support you and compile a report of the interview. If your asylum application is rejected and you want to appeal, VWNundefineds report can be used in the appeal.

  • The IND will compile a report of the interview. After the interview, discuss the IND report with your lawyer. Tell your lawyer if any information is missing or incorrect in the IND report.

An interpreter who speaks your language will be present at the interview

The IND employee asks the questions in Dutch. The interpreter translates them for you. The interpreter also translates your answers into Dutch. The interpreter is independent, does not work for the IND and has no influence on the decision about your asylum application.

Please note: Immediately say if the interpreter and you cannot understand each other well. It is important that no misunderstandings arise because the interpreter and you do not understand each other well.

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