Return - IOM Publications - International Organization for Migration

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PORTUGAL
Beyond this generic assisted voluntary return programme, a separate voluntary return and reintegration
programme for nationals from Guinea-Bissau was operated by IOM in 2000-2001 with
funding from the European Refugee Fund (ERF), established by the European Council Decision
in September 2000 and part of a four-year programme running from 2000-2004. This entails the
provision of information and advice about voluntary return programmes and the situation in the
country of origin, as well as general vocational training and help with the reintegration process,
as required.
Besides AVR programmes implemented by IOM, the NGO, INDE (Intercooperação e Desenvolvimento),
which is active both in Portugal and internationally, has recently initiated an assisted
voluntary return programme geared towards nationals from East Timor. Approximately
ten beneficiaries have to date received vocational training prior to their permanent return to the
country of origin. The funding comes also from the ERF and other national and international
funding sources. However, it does not represent a substantive budget.
2.2 ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROCEDURAL ARRANGEMENTS
Institutions Responsible for Voluntary Return
IOM is the implementing agency responsible for voluntary return procedures in coordination
with the Portuguese Ministry for Interior and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and in coordination
with operational partners/NGOs, migrant associations, municipalities, hospitals, social
security organizations, and diplomatic embassies/consulates for the acquisition of travel documents,
when necessary.
The High Commissioner for Immigration and Ethnic Minorities (ACIME) provides information
on assisted voluntary returns and makes referrals to IOM.
The Portuguese NGO “INDE”, also implements its own voluntary return programme for nationals
from East Timor, outside the scope of IOM.
Operational Steps for Voluntary Return
IOM-Implemented AVR
At present, there are two AVR programmes implemented by IOM:
“Voluntary Return Programme”, funded by the Portuguese Government; and
“New Life: Voluntary Return and Reintegration – Integrated Programme for the Return of
Guinea-Bissau Citizens with Temporary Protection Status”, co-funded by the European Refugee
Fund. Since 2002, the programme has been restructured and given a new name, and as
such is open to nationals who fall under the three categories covered by the European Refugee
Fund. It also complements the Programme funded by the Government of Portugal.
Potential candidates are interviewed and their data collected and analysed. The request for inclusion
in the programme is submitted to the Ministry of Interior (Aliens and Border Service) for