Your child may have their own reasons for fleeing and may therefore be entitled to asylum

You often flee with the whole family because all family members are at risk. Sometimes you flee because one or both parents are at risk, and the children flee with them. The asylum procedure often focuses on the parent(s)’ story. However, children who flee with their parents may also be at risk themselves.

In some countries, it can be dangerous for children. Your son might be forced to fight as a child soldier. Or criminal organisations might force your son to work for them. Perhaps your family or the village where you live might force your daughter to get married. Or to undergo female genital mutilation.

That is why it is important that the

By talking to the children, the IND will gain a better understanding of why it is dangerous for you in your home country. This will enable the IND to make a more informed decision. In some cases, your child may be granted asylum whilst you are not. In such cases, you may be allowed to stay in the Netherlands because your child is at risk in your home country.

Are you applying for asylum with your children? If so, children may sometimes be given their own interview with the IND. This can be important if they want to explain for themselves why they need protection.

You or your child can indicate as early as the

Does this only come to light later? If so, discuss this with your lawyer or VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN).

Your child may also have their own reasons for seeking asylum. Find out more about this on RefugeeHelp.