Refugee response plan taking shape

Red Cross Faroe Islands is overseeing the initial refugee efforts, with strong support from local communities.

The public authorities will step in once the legal framework, which seeks to remove legal obstacles around residence, work, social rights, etc. is completed in about a week’s time, says integration minister Magnus Rasmussen.

Until then, he explains, refugees will have regular traveller status, which means they will initially be staying on a 90-day visa.

“Once the new legislation is in place, these people can apply for refugee asylum.”

 >> SEE ALSO First refugees expected to arrive shortly

This process consists of an initial application to the Faroese immigration office (Útlendingastovan), which will forward their documents to the Danish authorities for approval.

If the conditions are met, the applicants will be granted an asylum residence permit in the Faroes, explains the minister.

“We have been told by Danish authorities that this process will take a maximum of a couple of weeks, whereas previously it would have taken months.”

Ministries are working with municipalities across the country to ensure a well-functioning refugee care system including accommodation, food, daycare, schooling, healthcare, jobs and other services once the new legislation is in place.

 >> SEE ALSO Faroes preparing to take in refugees

“It is also incredibly important that local communities join in the efforts, and we are happy to see overwhelming support from communities across the country.”

The government has not yet decided on a maximum capacity for refugees.

“Until the legal framework is finalised, there is in principle no limit to how many Ukrainian people can come to the Faroes as regular travellers,” says Rasmussen.

“We will have a much clearer idea about our refugee capacity and many other details once the legislation is ready.”

Hear the interview (in Faroese) with the minister here (from 06:12 onwards).

Translated by prosa.fo.

More Faroese News in English.