Asylum Status

Gather the following documents before or during your asylum procedure:

Identity and Travel Documents

• National passport or national identity card (original, if available)
• Birth certificate (original or certified copy)
• Travel documents used to reach Germany (airline tickets, boarding passes, travel permits)
• Driving licence or other government-issued photo ID
• Any documents proving your nationality (citizenship certificate, naturalisation papers)

Evidence of Persecution or Harm

• Medical certificates documenting torture, sexual violence, or physical injuries
• Psychological reports or mental health assessments (particularly for trauma-related claims)
• Police reports or court documents from your country of origin (if you filed complaints)
• Photographs of injuries, destroyed property, or damaged homes
• Letters or statements from witnesses, family members, or organisations in your country of origin
• News articles, reports, or documentation from human rights organisations about persecution in your country
• Religious texts, membership cards, or certificates if persecution is based on religion
• Political party membership documents, leaflets, or correspondence if persecution is based on political opinion
• LGBTQ+ documentation (pride event attendance, dating app profiles, correspondence with LGBTQ+ organisations) if persecution is based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• Proof of membership in a particular social group (professional associations, union cards, ethnic or clan documentation)

Family and Relationship Documents

• Marriage certificate (original or certified copy)
• Divorce or separation documents (if applicable)
• Birth certificates of children (original or certified copy)
• Custody documents or guardianship papers (for minors)
• Proof of family relationships (family photos, correspondence, genealogical records)

Financial and Employment Documents

• Bank statements or proof of financial resources
• Employment contracts or letters from employers
• Educational certificates or diplomas
• Professional licences or credentials
• Tax returns or proof of self-employment

Military and Security Documents

• Military discharge papers or conscription records (if applicable)
• Proof of military service or exemption
• Security clearance documents (if applicable)

Supporting Documentation

• Residence permits or visas from other countries
• Proof of previous asylum applications in other countries (if applicable)
• Letters of support from organisations, employers, or community members
• School records or educational transcripts
• Medical records unrelated to persecution (vaccination records, prescriptions, hospital discharge summaries)
• Proof of language skills (language certificates, educational records)

Translations and Certification

• All documents not in German or English must be translated into German by a certified translator
• Original documents should be brought to your BAMF appointment; certified copies may be required
• An apostille (international certification) may be needed for certain documents, depending on the issuing country

Important Notes on Documentation

• You are not required to have all documents to apply for asylum. If you fled suddenly or your country does not issue reliable documents, you can still apply.
• The BAMF will assess the credibility and weight of your account even without documentary evidence.
• If you have documents, bring them to your personal interview — they strengthen your case significantly.
• The BAMF uses physical and technical document examination (PTU) to assess original documents for authenticity.