Asylum processing
Information
Full name
Asylum application processing, by receiving authority and status
Short name
Asylum processing
Code
AsylumProcessing
Definition
This data series tracks processing stages of asylum applications during the reference period by the authority of the Refugee Status Determination (RSD) process. It measures applications awaiting a decisions at the start of the period, new applications filed during the period, decisions on applications taken and applications awaiting a decisions still pending at the end of the period. Decisions may include grants of refugee status, complementary forms of protection, rejections and administrative closures of cases.
Rationale
Fair and efficient asylum systems are essential to assess the asylum claims of those seeking international protection against the legal criteria set out in international, regional and national law. Effective procedures and prompt decisions on refugee claims allow those recognized as refugees to find protection where they are and find better pathways towards socio-economic inclusion. Prompt decision-making also facilitates the safe, dignified and rights-based return of those found not to be in need of international protection and reduces the incentive to legalize stay through asylum procedures when international protection needs are not present.
Method of computation
Applications awaiting a decision, are those that have neither received a substantive decision (i.e. recognition or rejected), nor have been closed for administrative reasons. Decisions may include grants of refugee status, complementary forms of protection, rejections and administrative closures of cases. Applications are presented aggregated, summarizing new applications and appealed or repeat applications.
Comparability
International definition and standards
Quality assurance
The collection and compilation of this data is guided by UNHCR's Statistical Quality Assurance Framework (SQAF), first published in 2025.
Data sources
UNHCR Population Statistics Reference (PSR)
UNHCR official population statistics on people affected by forced displacement and statelessness
UNHCR_WRL_PSR
2026
Multisource
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees