Not enough space in reception centre in Ter Apel if you apply for asylum there

You should register in Ter Apel if you wish to apply for asylum in the Netherlands. However, the application centre is currently very busy. There are not enough places in reception centres.

As a result, not everyone is immediately given a place to sleep. Some people have to wait outside.

Even when it is busy in Ter Apel, you can still apply for asylum. It is important that you report to the

Normally, once you have registered, you will be provided with a place in a reception centre by the

Vulnerable people may be given priority when it comes to reception centres.

Please contact the COA, the IND, VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) or the Red Cross immediately if any of the following apply to you:

• You are sick.

• You are pregnant.

• You are a minor and on your own.

• You have children with you.

• You have a disability.

• You are experiencing mental health issues.

• You are taking medication.

• You do not feel safe.

• You are in a different vulnerable situation.

Do you have any medical records or other important documents? Please show them to us if you can.

There are various organisations based in Ter Apel:

• The IND will register your asylum application.

• The COA is responsible for reception centres.

• VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) provides information, listens to people’s concerns and identifies vulnerable situations.

• The Red Cross

  is on hand in Ter Apel to provide emergency assistance, such as food, water, blankets, access to toilets and a sympathetic ear.

Do you have to wait outside? If so, try to stay as safe as possible.

Here is what you can do:

• Ask for help from official aid organisations or from people you know and trust. Do not just go off with people you do not know.

• Contact the COA, VluchtelingenWerk Nederland (VWN) or the Red Cross for further information.

• Please let us know straight away if you are ill or do not feel safe.

• Only use your phone when necessary, so that the battery lasts longer.

• Keep your documents and valuables, such as mobile phones and money, safe.

• As a family or group, stay together as much as possible.

• Follow the guidance issued by official organisations.

You can ask for help from people you know and trust. For example, for food, drink, warm clothes or a blanket.

But do take care to stay safe. Do not just go off with people you do not know. Not even if someone offers you a place to stay.

Are you unsure whether something is safe? If so, ask an aid organisation on site for advice first.