France, a historical haven for asylum seekers, has welcomed notable figures seeking refuge. Victor Hugo, a 19th-century writer, sought asylum during political exile. Leon Trotsky found sanctuary from Soviet expulsion, while Marc Chagall fled Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Other asylum seekers include Anna Seghers, Hannah Arendt, Andrei Sakharov, Nguyen Cao Ky, Carlos the Jackal, José Saramago, and Ai Weiwei. This legacy showcases France’s enduring commitment to providing refuge, making it a welcoming destination for those escaping political turmoil and oppression.

Applying for Asylum in France: A Brief Guide

Step 1: The SPADA (Structure de Premier Accueil des Demandeurs d’Asile)

The SPADA, or Initial Reception Establishment for Asylum Seekers, is the first point of contact. If you live in the Ile-de-France region, contact Ofii at 01 42 500 900 for an appointment. If outside this region, visit the SPADA in your department. During the appointment, you’ll receive an asylum application form and a summons for the dedicated asylum application service center (GUDA) in 3 days (or 10 days during peak periods).

Step 2: The GUDA (Guichet Unique de Demande d’Asile)

The GUDA, or Dedicated Asylum Application Service Center, located on the prefecture’s premises, involves meeting with both a prefecture agent and an OFII agent. The prefecture agent validates personal information, takes fingerprints, conducts an individual interview, and provides an asylum application certificate. The OFII agent evaluates your personal situation, assesses material reception conditions, looks for housing, and discusses your rights to the asylum seeker allowance.

Step 3: OFPRA (Office française de protection des réfugiés et apatrides)

OFPRA, the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons, is the final step. Submit your asylum application within 21 days of receiving the asylum application certificate from the GUDA. Include the application form, 2 photographs, copy of the certificate or residence permit, an account of reasons for your asylum application, travel documents, and, if applicable, the copy of the informational notice from the GUDA. Send the application to OFPRA at 201 rue Carnot, 94136 Fontenay-sous-Bois Cedex.

If complete, you’ll receive an introductory letter and a summons to the interview. If incomplete, you’ll receive a letter requesting additional information and have 8 days to complete it. Note that exceeding this timeframe may result in the end of the examination, with a 9-month window to request a reopening. Once submitted, OFPRA will examine your asylum application.