In short
- Contact a legal aid organisation from the start, not only after a refusal.
- Deadlines are short: read every decision the same day and write down the deadline.
- Real legal aid from an NGO is free.
Where to find free legal aid
- Greek Council for Refugees (GCR) — helpline (Greek, English, Dari, Pashto, Arabic, Kurdish) gcr.gr
- Equal Rights Beyond Borders — representation through the whole procedure equal-rights.org
- Refugee Legal Support (Athens) — family reunification refugeelegalsupport.org
- HIAS Greece — priority for vulnerable people hias.org
- Generation 2.0 RED — legal counselling in Athens g2red.org
- SolidarityNow — advice and representation (Athens Solidarity Centre) solidaritynow.org
State legal counselling in 2026
The new legal counselling system under the EU Pact was criticised in summer 2026 by organisations and Greek bar associations. If you cannot get a lawyer through it, contact an NGO from the list directly.
Appeals and important deadlines
- Appeal against an asylum refusal: the deadline is on the decision (regular procedure: 30 days; 20 days in detention).
- State legal aid for the appeal: request it before you submit the appeal.
- Administrative court: application for annulment within 30 days after the appeal decision; it does not automatically stop removal.
After protection: your rights
- Employed or self-employed work under the same conditions as Greek nationals, with a valid residence permit.
- Social benefits under conditions (minimum guaranteed income; some benefits require 5 years of residence).
- Family reunification for recognised refugees (see the dedicated guide).
- Careful: after a positive decision, accommodation in a state centre ends quickly (30-day period). Prepare early.
Fraud and fake middlemen
Never pay
- UNHCR and partner services are free. Nobody can sell you an appointment, a decision or resettlement.
- Be careful with offers on social media. Report any request for money to the police or UNHCR.
Voluntary return
If you want to go back to your country, an assisted voluntary return programme exists. Talk first with an independent organisation to understand your options well.
