DRS Resumes Printing of CTDs, Warns Refugees against Using Passports from Country of Origin
By Stanley Nyale
Nairobi, Kenya – The Department of Refugee Services (DRS) has announced the resumption of the printing of the Convention Travel Documents (CTDs) for refugees after a period of suspension. This development comes as the DRS works to clear a significant backlog of over 500 CTD applications. “We are now working to clear the backlog before embarking on new requests,” said the Commissioner for Refugee Affairs, Mr. John Burugu, in a statement today.
A Convention Travel Document (CTD) is a temporary passport issued to refugees by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or a state, like Kenya, on behalf of the UNHCR. It serves as a crucial document for refugees who need to travel outside the country of their asylum. CTDs are essential for refugees to access key opportunities such as education, healthcare, employment, and family reunification among other opportunities abroad.
To expedite the processing and issuing of CTDs, the DRS aims to process applications within two weeks of receiving a complete and accurate submission. Refugees are encouraged to ensure their applications are accurate and include all required details and documentation to avoid delays. The DRS appreciates the understanding and cooperation of refugees as they work to address the backlog and resume full CTD services.
At the same time, the DRS has issued a stern warning to asylum seekers and refugees against using passports from their country of origin for travel outside Kenya instead of CTDs. The department emphasized that using these passports can have serious legal repercussions, jeopardizing an individual’s refugee status and potentially leading to expulsion from Kenya.
“Using a passport from your country of origin contradicts the basis of your refugee status, as it suggests that you can still afford the protection of your country of origin. This can lead to the cancellation of your refugee status and subsequent expulsion from Kenya.” Stated Commissioner Burugu.
He urged all asylum seekers and refugees to comply with Kenyan law by obtaining CTDs for any international travel. By using the appropriate travel document, refugees can safeguard their legal status in Kenya and continue to access essential services and protection.
For any questions or concerns about CTDs or refugee status, refugees can contact the DRS offices during regular business hours. Alternatively, they can reach out via email at refugeeaffairs@refugee.go.ke or info@refugee.go.ke, or by phone at +254-020-4348143/5 or +254-020-4405057.
(See attached statements for more information.)