How we work
The Norwegian Organization for Asylum Seekers (NOAS) is an independent membership organization that works to promote asylum seekers’ legal protection in Norway. NOAS assists asylum seekers in various phases of the asylum process.
Information
NOAS offers counseling to asylum seekers who have had their asylum application rejected. We review and explain decisions from the UDI and UNE, provide information about the individual’s situation after a rejection and provide guidance on future options.
Legal aid
NOAS provides free legal aid in asylum cases. All asylum seekers who have been rejected by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) or the Norwegian Immigration Appeals Board (UNE) can have their asylum case assessed by NOAS. Where we believe it may be possible to change the outcome of the case and obtain a positive decision, we write to the Immigration Appeals Board on behalf of the asylum seeker. We are successful in 60 percent of the cases we get involved in.
Read moreThe court project
NOAS has agreements with some law firms to take certain asylum cases to court. In some selected cases where NOAS has been unsuccessful at the Immigration Appeals Board, we have the opportunity to take the case further to the court system. The individual case officer in NOAS assesses whether the case is suitable for such a trial in court.
NOAS also offers legal aid and guidance in connection with applications for family immigration, permanent residence permits, citizenship and rejection of applications for assisted return.
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Advocacy work
In addition to working on individual cases, NOAS tries to influence regulations and asylum practices. We are in contact with politicians and employees in the public administration, and work to ensure that Norwegian authorities follow UN recommendations and respect human rights. We write reports on topics we believe require extra attention.
