14 ms·

Ask HN: How Can I leave Syria now and get asylum in Europe (Germany)

298 points by aforarnold 13y ago

Guys, I am in Syria(specifically in Damascus). Seems war is rolling out. Most of the people are moving to border regions but I cant and I am a programmer worked as a remote dev for an Australian startup. But I am not sure how long I will be able to work living in Syria. I want move to Europe specially in Germany as the startup scene is booming in Berlin. So can you guys give me suggestion of legal way to move in Germany as an asylum and will I be able to work if I can move. I went through google but couldn't find much information. And I will be happy to have contact with startups that are hiring dev. I have couple of years backend development experience with Python(Django),LAMP,Node.js and some unix skill. Thanks in advance.

w_t_payne 13y ago
Find a lawyer in Germany, and get advice from them before you go. My knowledge is both limited, 12+ years outdated, and restricted to the UK, but here is my tuppence-worth anyway: 1. It is both a legal and a bureaucratic process. 2. Apply for asylum at the first possible opportunity. At the border crossing-point or airport, if possible. 3. Don't lie. 4. Be prepared with documentary evidence to back up any statements that you are going to make. 5. If possible, have documentary evidence that you are facing persecution, or that your life is in danger. (Sounds silly in the current situation, I know, but anyway...) 6. Make sure that a friendly party (or your lawyer) has a copy of these documents. It might be easier, if the danger looks like it is going to be temporary, to reach out and try to get somebody to "host" you, and go on a visitor's visa.
- angerman 13y ago
  I second what w_t_payne said. The following are just some ideas, please keep in mind that I'm no lawyer! This is no legal advice at all! If you do have relatives in Germany, that might be a route to explore. I heard something in the news, that this may be an option. For working though, that's going to be a tough one. Reading the Wikipedia article (http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbeitserlaubnis http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbeitserlaubnis) right, it states that: "Asylbewerber dürfen für die ersten 12 Monate überhaupt nicht arbeiten (§ 61 Abs. 2 AsylVfG), anschließend gilt ein nachrangiger Arbeitsmarktzugang nach der BeschVerfV (siehe oben)." Which translates to: people seeking asylum must not take up any employment for the first 12 month. As well as "Asylberechtigte, Konventionsflüchtlinge (§ 25 Abs. 1 und 2 AufenthG) sowie Ausländer mit einer Niederlassungserlaubnis (§ 9 Abs. 1 AufenthG) haben nach dem Aufenthaltsgesetz ein Recht auf Erwerbstätigkeit.", which transaltes to: people granted asylum (and some others) holding a residence permit, are allowed to work. That's both ends of the spectrum, so there may be some middle ground after 12 month. I'm not lawyer though! Finally, I think, maybe the folks from PRO Asyl may be the right ones to ask. See: http://www.proasyl.de/en/contact/ http://www.proasyl.de/en/contact/ PS: regarding hosting, from my exprience it's a somewhat lengthy progress, depending on the regonal administration. Your host will have to provide financial standing for your stay (requirements differ for the duration of your stay), with that he or she has to send that document certifying the financial standing as well as a signed invitation to you (the original), with which you have to go to the german emabassy in your country and apply for a temporary visa.
Create 13y ago
http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/refugee-influx-reveals-german-asylum-policy-shortcomings-a-919488.html http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/refugee-influx-r...
deleted 13y ago
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mschuster91 13y ago
Forget Germany as an asylum target. Our politicians have massively restricted asylum acceptance and even for those who do get accepted it's a hell of a fight and even more paperwork. Also, you have the problem that you likely won't even be able to enter the European Union, except if you smuggle yourself via the Turkish-Greek border - but then again, the Germans simply fly you to Greece because this is the place where you entered the European Union technically.
- agiamas 13y ago
  Sorry for your situation and I hope you stay safe! If you smuggle yourself via the Turkish-Greek border then you are stuck in the wonderful country of Greece forever basically. High unemployment, laws that are really unfriendly to asylum seekers (less than 2% acceptance rate) and the nazist party (facepalm..) has risen from obscurity to 5% in the latest elections, to 15% in the polls... So less than ideal environment for a programmer :) Too many people have gone that route and now are stuck here because of that Dublin 2 convention that will return asylum seekers to the country that they entered the EU in the first place... So do whatever you can to avoid Greece as an entry country to EU. Try Sweden, you would love it except for the weather :)
olalonde 13y ago
You might find this Wikipedia article helpful in case you change your mind about Germany: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_ci...
Lrigikithumer 13y ago
I don't really have anything to offer but I do want to wish you good luck, I hope you get out safely.
- linuxlizard 13y ago
  Same here. Best of luck to you.
znt 13y ago
It would be easier to escape to Turkey first. Later on you can try your chances with European countries via their embassies in Ankara or Istanbul.
bayesianhorse 13y ago
I'm not an expert. But if you are seeking asylum, you will not be allowed to work for about a year. The biggest problem with Asylum in Germany is probably how to enter Germany before any of the other countries between Germany and Syria... You might try a "blue card", if you can get a good salary. But I am not sure how easy that is from Syria at the moment... Also keep in mind that islamophobia in Germany is rising across the board. And no, my fellow Germans generally make no distinction between copts, syrian christians or muslims.
pixelkritzel 13y ago
Hi. To get asylum in Germany is difficult. First of all, make sure that you take a direct flight to Germany. If you enter any other European Country before, you have to get asylum there. Second and maybe more important. If you try to get an asylum in Germany, you are not allowed to work for the first year. It's crazy and doesn't make any sense. If you still want to get here. And it's a great city. Here is the Email address of the refugee help in Berlin: buero@fluechtlingsrat-berlin.de
9392732 13y ago
Seek asylum in the first safe country or Turkey, then contact other countries embassies.
icecreampain 13y ago
Come to Sweden. The Swedish government hands out permanent residence to anyone who wants one. Got 10 kids? Not a problem. Bring them along, the Swedes will gladly pay for everything without questions. They'll pay you so much money each month for all your kids and to help you along that you'll be making more than most middle-management here. And if you do encounter a Swede that questions why you wanted asylum in Sweden instead of another arab country with similar culture and language, just call him a racist. That'll shut him up. Want some Swedish pussy on the side? Swedish girls are the most naive, PC-indoctrinated females on this side of the solar system. They'll sleep with you in a heartbeat. Feel like slapping her around to teach her her place? That's ok, she'll forgive you and excuse the behaviour with "that's his culture and we must be understanding of other Swedes' cultures". All schoolkids are taught that all immigrants, each and every one, is just as valuable and productive member of Swedish society as even the most hard-working Swede. sigh
- GoldfishCRM 13y ago
  Gå iväg troll
- baseraid 13y ago
  Is there any way to report people like him?
  - tomelders 13y ago
    The summer holidays will be over soon.
  - deleted 13y ago
    [deleted]
    - SuperChihuahua 13y ago
      He's not talking to you! Notice the [dead] = deleted comment
  - um304 13y ago
    Why would you report him?
sveme 13y ago
There are some schemes in place that make it easier for non-EU nationals to get a work permit in Germany, it would require you to find an employer that pays a wage above a certain threshold (I believe it's called Blue Card). A really helpful english-speaking source for any expat information on Germany is the http://toytowngermany.com/forum http://toytowngermany.com/forum forum, especially the lengthy thread on visas and work permits: http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=46755 http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=4675... Here's the thread for the Blue Card scheme: http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=267365 http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=2673... Hope that helps a tiny bit and good luck! Edit: Another link to official information on the Blue card: http://www.bluecard-eu.de/eu-blue-card-germany/ http://www.bluecard-eu.de/eu-blue-card-germany/
- guido4000 13y ago
  The threshold for a blue card work permit as a developer has been lowered to 36.192 Euro a few months ago. You just need to get a proper work contract to be eligible for the visa.
yk 13y ago
I would also advise against Germany, one of the problems is that people who seek asylum in Germany are not allowed to work. ( I know nothing about other countries, but if you work for an Australian company, it would perhaps best to ask them for help.) Good luck and stay safe.
- sspiff 13y ago
  I would follow yk's advice: it is much easier to get a Visum when you are invited to work for a company. Is asking the startup for employment an option?
swissnamir 13y ago
i feel your pain. its unfortunate to be Syria now, i heard recently Sweden is approving asylum applications in the EU on a smaller scale. call the embassy to double check. anyhow forward me your CV and email and let's connect, tech-wise we are recruiting node.js - backend dev if this could help. here's my contact: swissnamir@gmail.com
twelvechairs 13y ago
I think you are likely to have greater luck on a working visa than as an 'asylum' seeker (which European governments consider themselves flooded by, and you'll have to prove specific persecution in your home country rather than skills in your job). What you need is the right visa which your skills can qualify you for and will lead to permanent residency or citizenship. This will vary by country. A difficulty with Germany may be that a lot of the process will be hard to understand if you can't read German. Good luck to you. I (white Australian) visited Syria a few years ago. Every piece of news I hear now from Syria just saddens me.
progx 13y ago
Asylum and Work are 2 different things and in germany they accept only one. 1. Asylum and you cant work. 2. Work, but for that you need many many papers and time.
don_draper 13y ago
I'd be curious what a fellow hacker on the other side of the world thinks about the current situation.
GoldfishCRM 13y ago
I am not an expert so don´t take my word for it. But I heard that a general role has always been that you have to get to the country you which to have asylum in in order to apply. European union is discussion a banded that rule for Syria but I dont know the status of that decision. An other rule is that you have to apply for asylum in the first country you get into. However... Sweden also spend lots of money on a virtual embassy in second life. Read more about it here: http://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Lifestyle/Reading/Second-Life/ http://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Lifestyle/Reading/Second-Life/ Maybe you can do a think of virtually applying for visa in sweden and write a pressrelease and push it on mynewsdesk.com. Startup community is also big in Sweden and we need skilled developers (Im swedish). Carl Bildt,Foreign Minister of Sweden since 2006 (https://twitter.com/carlbildt https://twitter.com/carlbildt) is very active on twitter and in my guess most likely to respond to a virtual request for visa by twitter and second life. This is a long shot but something you can try by your computer. When you get visa in any EU country it is easy to move to germany and travel over boarders within EU.
troels 13y ago
Might be worth contacting these guys for advice: http://www.deutschsyrischegesellschaft.de/ http://www.deutschsyrischegesellschaft.de/ (I just googled my way to this, so I don't know how helpful they are)
michalu 13y ago
Hi I will update this post, but I think you have several options. Try to get to any country you can that is in Schengen, once you are in you can carry on your freelance work, apply for working visa and go to Berlin for interviews. If you find a company to work for they will help you out, almost every country is in demand for devs. I theory, I believe you may just come to Europe and if you state at the border that you seek an asylum they can't refuse you ( according to international laws, until your asylum is decided on ) and then take it from there. Turkey is the closest country you don't need a visa for. I will make an update but in any case don't double-check everything yourself, those are few things I vaguely remember from school.
ig1 13y ago
Your best solution might be to move to whatever country will be most likely to accept your asylum request (and preferably will let you continue to remotely work) and then apply for a work visa to a country with more of a tech scene.
parasight 13y ago
German here. I think asylum isn't what you want. If the company in Australia that you worked for can not help you get in touch with companies in Germany. Tell them what you can do for them and about your situation. A lot companies are used to employ IT professionals from all over the world and know how to do get you here.
antocv 13y ago
Skip Germany and go to Sweden or England, where people are more than happy to speak English, and there is already many Syrians in Sweden, especially in Sodertalje. Sweden will accept you based on your skills far more easily than Germany, all you need is to find a job, and right now the market is open for a guy of your skills - programmers are in high demand. Look around on various Sweden/Stockholm job posting sites, from there you get the visa and safety. The startup scene is also nice. As someone else mentioned in Germany as asylum seeker you arent allowed to work. You can come to Sweden and seek asylum and you'd be allowed to work, and when you do sign a contract then you can get a permit to stay and cancel the asylum request. PM me and Ill give you names of good companies that are on the lookout to hire. As others said, to be able to apply for asylum in EU country X, you have to first set foot in that country X and not in another one, so, go to Turkey or Israel and then fly to Sweden from there. Sweden is also more flexible, its a country where they look out for the best interest of you as a human (mostly), so if you come to Sweden and continue working for Australian company - it is enough to get a work permit, all you have to do is prove that you earn more than minimum amount, I believe around 1500usd and pay taxes, to be accepted. As a war refugee my self, I urge you strongly to leave Syria now, for the love of god no matter the price, buy those tickets and get the hell out of there and far away as possible, Sweden, Canada, Australia. (Not Germany, France, Italy, USA, Turkey they all suck.) Your life is all you got, dont waste it on that war. Take with your closest family if you can.
- leokun 13y ago
  Is going to Turkey from Syria safe? Maybe it makes sense to go to Iran first.
  - antocv 13y ago
    He should know that better than us, we are further away from the war. Possibly even going to Iraq first would be an option. However, now I am reminded that Syria has banned all males 18-42 from leaving the country. So, it isnt easy, you basically have to escape through smuggle-lines/unguarded border. EDIT: If I may speculate, the safest option would be to get to the coast and take a ship to anywhere that isnt Syria. Another EDIT: Try to go to the kurdish areas, they will probably let you go to Turkey or Iraq.
OoTheNigerian 13y ago
Sorry about your situation. Are you Syrian? It may be easier to get to a country that does not require you having a visa then you decide on what to do later. As a dev, you can work remotely and earn money. Check this out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_ci.... Best of luck man.
- wslh 13y ago
  Yes, I agree. In the worst case you do not have time to follow any asylum or inmigration procedures.
- ra 13y ago
  That's great information. I'd get out of there now; Equador doesn't require a visa and looks like a great place to go and work out what to do next.
hrvbr 13y ago
If one EU state offers you asylum, which shouldn't be too hard because your country is notoriously dangerous, then you can work anywhere in the EU. So you could get asylum from Italy or France, then move to Berlin when you have your papers, which takes several months during which you can't have a declared job (in France, they may make sure you don't work by sending you to a transit camp, which is basically a jail). If you tell them you're an experimented software engineer, it may be much faster to get a work visa than asylum. Ask for this work visa to each embassy in Damascus. Also, Morrocoan cities are growing like crazy. There may be some business to do there and they may give visas more easily.
NicoJuicy 13y ago
I'm no expert. But your chances in Brittain are a lot higher i presume (no passport even required). But you should check up on that first though :)
- moondowner 13y ago
  It depends from where you come from. For Syrian citizens visa is required for Brattain. In fact, for all European countries it is required. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_c...
- smalltalk 13y ago
  Really? You can get into the UK without a passport from Syria these days?
marvin 13y ago
I am no expert on asylum situations, but my impression is that the first country in the European zone that you enter is the one that decides which asylum rules you'll follow. You need to speak to a lawyer. Sorry I can't provide any more insight than this. Good luck.
laserbrain 13y ago
As an asylum-seeker you are not allowed to work in Germany. You will be “stored” in a camp and are forced to stay there until you can move back to Syria. Better go to a Scandinavian country, where you will be treated as a human beeing.
- jsilence 13y ago
  As a german I am ashamed to read this, because I have to agree. Embarrassing.
  - slowmotiony 13y ago
    I used to live next to a shelter like that, and the thing is a total shithole. Walls destroyed, stinks like hell, major crime around the shelter. A week before I left a 11 year old girl was gang-raped by the asylees. I do not blame germans who decide it's best for them to just send the asylum seekers back to their own countries.
    - jsilence 13y ago
      I disagree. The main principle of humanitarian help is very valuable. We shall not abandon our core values, just because some people go ahead and cheat on us. Yes, some do. I know that and I don't like that either. But. In general every person on the planet should be able to live peacefully and in dignity and if leaders in other countries do not build a system that is capable of providing this for all inhabitants, we should give them asylum and protect them from harassment. Regarding those who are leaving their country and seeking asylum only for economical reasons, trying to escape poverty and a bleak future prospect, we shall not forget that a lot of our wealth is build on exploiting other countries. Our wealth is built on a system, that lets money and goods flow while disallowing the same freedom for people. No, there is no excuse for rape and there never can be. But before we judge these people we should always reconsider: Why are they here? What is their situation in the country where they come from? What kind of chance do they have in their country? What kind of chance do they have here? Do we give them a chance to behave and act well? I refuse to follow the growing mob that does not reflect on the global situation, that does not differentiate and treats every foreigner the same, that suspects that every refugee is a criminal, dirty and trying to rape our children.
illumen 13y ago
German immigration lawyers who specialise in software developers. I can recommend them. http://www.vpmk.de/ http://www.vpmk.de/ Berlin is very welcoming to qualified software devs. Best of luck!
- realrocker 13y ago
  Is it really? Would love to work in Berlin for a while.
micheljansen 13y ago
You use the word asylum, which has a very specific meaning, but if you can find a skilled job, you might be able to migrate to another country through more conventional and less bureaucratic means. IANAL, but those are my 2 cents.
gregorycarter 13y ago
This is one of the best uses of Ask HN I've seen in a long time. Best of luck.
jfrm 13y ago
Have you tried the UN Refugee Agency? http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/home http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/home
- aforarnold 13y ago
  Not yet, thanks for the link.
random2435 13y ago
I work at a berlin startup that is interested in the skillset that you posted. Send me a mail to irit.applebaum {at} gmail.com and ill try to help you.
level09 13y ago
I'm a Syrian hacker myself, and I can suggest you a better option. Go to Dubai, it is easy to get a visit visa first, if you are in damascus you can go through Beirut Airport as the path is still safe between the cities (got many friends coming through that route). then you can try to find a job in Dubai (should be easier as the economy is growing and since you speak the language), I myself know many startups and companies and will try to help you as well. if you find a good job in Dubai you might give up the whole idea of moving to Europe as the standard of living is really high and the country is tax-free and amazing. but still you should be able to get a Schengen visit visa easily (especially if you work for a good company).
- Blahah 13y ago
  This sounds like a good plan - you've got a definite escape route and high probability of getting a comfortable life a the other end.
- ck2 13y ago
  This of course is assuming the poster isn't female. Do not go to Dubai if you are a woman.
  - level09 13y ago
    Not really, if you are a woman that would triple your chances of finding Jobs and great life. The amount of respect and importance women get in Dubai is incomparable to any other country.
    - mkl 13y ago
      Rape victims can be jailed for over a year for "extramarital sex". That is not respect. http://www.ibtimes.com/dubai-safe-female-travelers-norwegian-woman-jailed-over-rape-report-warns-others-1354317 http://www.ibtimes.com/dubai-safe-female-travelers-norwegian...
      - deleted 13y ago
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restlessmedia 13y ago
Try and stay away from England, they'll tax you right down to the amount of hairs you have on your nuts.
grobmeier 13y ago
Germany is difficult, but not impossible. As an alternative you could try not to get asylum, but a blue card (EU). Unfortunately you'll need a university degree + yearly incoming in 2013 of 46.400 OR uni degree + special demand in germany (IT is such an area) + yearly income of 36.192. The good thing is, according to my research the income requirement is floating. In other terms, you just need an income which is "usual for your region". Of course, you would need a visa too. What I am trying to suggest is you search an potential employer first and ask him to deal with the visa/eu card details. That way you wouldn't get the german citizenship in first glance; not sure if you really aim at that or if you would like to return after the war. Anyway you can reach citizenship after living 8 years in germany (please note there are some restrictions, like no criminal acts, accepting liberal and democratic orders and so on). I believe with your skills you might have a good chance to find a position in the Berlin or even Munich scene. Just prepare a CV and try to contact as many startups as you can. Look out for guides like this: http://www.berlinstartup.de/startup-guide.php http://www.berlinstartup.de/startup-guide.php http://berlinstartupjobs.com/ http://berlinstartupjobs.com/ Good luck and take care mate. Links: http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_566780/Dienststellen/besondere-Dst/ZAV/arbeiten-in-deutschland/DE/amz/merkblaetter/amz-arbeitsmarktzulassung-info-an-ag.html http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_566780/Dienststellen/besonde... http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_616850/Navigation/Dienststellen/besondere-Dst/ZAV/arbeiten-in-deutschland/DE/amz/migration-check/migration-check-nav.html http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_616850/Navigation/Dienststel... (german, despite they aim for migrants. Send them to potential employers).
- aforarnold 13y ago
  One of the reason for choosing Germany as some of my friends are living there, though I dont know will it help or not. And after the discussion seems its better not to get asylum.
  - johnvogel 13y ago
    Hey, maybe you try this page: http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ Here you can make a quick check if you are eligible of getting a EU Blue Card for Germany: http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/making-it/quick-check/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/making-it/quick-check/ This information might be useful for you as well: "By the way: are you still job-hunting and would like to look for a post that corresponds to your qualifications in Germany? In that case, you are entitled to a six-month visa. The condition is that you have a university degree and are able to support yourself while you stay in Germany. Please note that the visa entitling you to hunt for jobs does not entitle you to work. Once you find a suitable post, you can immediately apply for the appropriate residence permit while, of course, remaining in Germany. You can apply for the visa to the German mission abroad in your area. They will tell you exactly which conditions you have to fulfill to be able to apply."
chrisreichel 13y ago
You should try Ireland. There's a plenty of IT jobs and it's easier to come in than the rest of Europe.
- RomanPushkin 13y ago
  Not easy for non-EU citizens, unemployment rate is very high. To be able to move there you have to find a job with 60K salary.
dodyg 13y ago
1. Keep your job with the Australian start up. 2. Fly to Malaysia. You don't need visa to enter the country. 3. Once you are in region in a safe place, you can figure out the next step. You will be in the most growing economic zone in the world. Don't go to Europe. Everybody's trying to get to Europe right now.
probably_wrong 13y ago
Well, everyone else has given an idea about why you shouldn't go to Berlin. In case you have a powerful reason for still going there, a few quick points: English is not that common, but is far more common than in the neighboring cities - you probably won't be super comfortable, but you'll survive. If you are on a budget and/or planning to live on whatever money you already have, Berlin is much cheaper than any of the other countries mentioned. There's also a very large Turkish community, in case that means something for you. Keep in mind all the negative comments mentioned, though. This points are valid when you are a regular citizen, but as a refugee they might not apply.
arthalbuwa 13y ago
Good luck mate hope things will work out fine for you.
aforarnold 13y ago
I am not sure what would be the "best" next step, but I want to leave Syria asap. Planning to move to Iraq first then I will go for the next destination. As far as discussed seems I dont need asylum because I do have some skill set that can be fit into a job market. But will I be able to live there for couple of years? This is getting crazy here and I dont know how long I will have the internet connection and other to work in my remote job(though my employer is very helpful). Seems next couple of days will make my way for at least next couple of years of my life.
- fauigerzigerk 13y ago
  I would advise against the asylum route for all the reasons that others have already mentioned. What you could do right now is to travel to Turkey and apply for a German tourist visa there. Once you are in Germany and out of harm's way you can think about your next steps. This page says that the German embassy in Ankara or the Istanbul consulate will process your visa application while the Damascus office remains closed: http://www.ankara.diplo.de/Vertretung/ankara/de/06__Visa/Visum__Irak/Visum__SYR__S.html http://www.ankara.diplo.de/Vertretung/ankara/de/06__Visa/Vis... Here are the tourist visa guidelines in arabic: http://www.beirut.diplo.de/contentblob/3951508/Daten/3401582/merkblatt_besuchsreise.pdf http://www.beirut.diplo.de/contentblob/3951508/Daten/3401582... I wish you the best of luck!
femto 13y ago
Be careful if you are tempted by Australia, in light of your employer. Refugees are a huge political issue in the current federal election and the two major parties are competing to see who can be the most inhumane. The Australia government is ignoring the UN refugee convention, with refugees without a visa being forcibly, and permanently, exported to Manus Island. The catch 22 is that the Australian government won't hand out a visa if there is any inkling that a person might be a refugee, so the phrase "without a visa" can be replaced with "all". Be cautious of researching refugee issues under your own identity, if you intend to apply for an Australian visa. If you can get an Australia work visa and make it onto Australian soil, you might be able to circumvent the "no visa" rule. In this case, be wary of the possibility of detention, possibly indefinite, inside Australia. Australian officials will also do their best to keep a new arrival ignorant of their rights, allowing them to be deported, so find out exactly what your rights are and what the procedure and legally correct wording is to claim asylum and activate the UN process. If considering Australia, perhaps get some advice from an expert, such as Sr Pat Sealey [1]? (Presumably she can be contacted though her order's South Australian address [2].) [1] http://www.catholicreligiousaustralia.org/index.php/news-a-views/news-and-views/1118-tireless-refugee-advocate-recognised http://www.catholicreligiousaustralia.org/index.php/news-a-v... [2] http://www.sosj.org.au/contact/2col-index.cfm?loadref=6 http://www.sosj.org.au/contact/2col-index.cfm?loadref=6 --- Edit: I'll add that it is not clear to me whether the automatic deportation only applies to refugees who arrive by boat, or to any refugee that arrives without a visa. Further edit: My comment about indefinite detention in Australia applies if you arrive on a work visa then claim asylum, not if you are actually working and have not claimed asylum.
- deleted 13y ago
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CReber 13y ago
If you want to get a job in Berlin quickly, post it here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/159595270791268 https://www.facebook.com/groups/159595270791268 Berlin is one of the most peaceful cities I ever lived in.
Sagat 13y ago
I really hope this isn't a scam. I would recommend heading to Northern European countries, specifically the Netherlands and Sweden.
deleted 13y ago
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ivanhoe 13y ago
Don't waste any time, get out of the country asap on regular touristic visa. Usually it means you can stay "on a vacation" for up to 30 days at once and 3 months in total (you just cross the border and return), which should be enough to see what's going on with Syria. Legally you can't work, but if you already have an online job no one will stop you to continue working. If the war starts you can then obtain the refugee status in that country on the basis that you can't return to your homeland. The refugee status doesn't mean that you have to stay in that country, as an educated refugee you can apply for a work visa in other countries through their embassies.
razzaj 13y ago
An intermediate option might be moving to Lebanon temporarily. It is still relatively (to syria) safe. As a Syrian, you dont need visa or residency permit. You can continue your work from here and figure out your next move; namely apply for immigration visas here-and-there.
ekurutepe 13y ago
I'm in Berlin startup scene and I can tell you that is quite easy to get a working permit as a software dev, basically only thing you need besides your passport is an employment contract with more than 33k€ per year. (search term: blue card) Don't go the asylum way if you have the software skills. Blue card is much easier and a safe bet. The processing can take up to 6-8 weeks though… And as for language, at least in Berlin tech companies, english is the language of business…
cubsink 13y ago
I would recommend coming to Sweden. It's a country which developers is within high need. Quite easy to get a job. There is probably a lot of jobs you can get with only english, but Swedish is pretty easy to learn. Sweden has pretty good welfare for asylum seekers (so you will have time to adapt and be able to search for jobs). Living an everyday life with only english is easy. Most people speaks english fluently.
wheels 13y ago
There's a lot of bad information here on Berlin. For context, I'm a non-EU software developer that lives in Berlin and now has permanent residence, as is my girlfriend. Germany is actually one of the easiest countries to get an immigrant work visa for. I would recommend skipping seeking asylum. There's a large enough job market in Berlin for developers that the work visa route will almost certainly be the fastest and least painful for you. If you have a university degree, you should be able to get a Blue Card. In fact, Germany will give you a 6 month visa to visit the country and look for a job. Since you're already working remotely, finding money to support yourself during that time should not be difficult. The salary requirement that others list here is incorrect for software developers. The typical Blue Card minimum required salary is €46,400/year, however, software development is an in-demand job ("Mangelberuf"), which lowers the minimum to €39,192/year, which is above the standard salary that you'd find for development positions at Berlin startups. If you go the Blue Card route, you'll be eligible for permanent residence in 3 years. If you don't have a university degree, you're still in pretty good shape. Then, in practice, what you need is a job offer (with a contract). Your residence permit, prior to getting permanent residence, will be connected to your specific job at a specific company (though in practice this just means you have to go to the foreigner's office to apply for a new visa when you change jobs). This was the old system that I went through (before the Blue Card was introduced, which my girlfriend used). Basically if you have a job offer and a reasonable salary, you're next to guaranteed to be able to get a work permit. I've never heard of a software developer having their request denied. However, that system is not nearly as streamlined, so you actually usually need to already be in Berlin to apply for it. I would recommend finding any excuse you can to come to Berlin on a visitors' visa (language course, conference, whatever) and stay as long as you can. I think you'd be able to find a job and kick off the work permit stuff in a 2 month timeframe. Going that route you're able to apply for permanent residence after 5 years, though it's a slightly nicer version of permanent residence than the one you get via the Blue Card route since it's transferable to all EU countries except the UK and Ireland. Official things in Germany will naturally be mostly in German, but the startup scene functions primarily in English. It's totally normal for job interviews and work meetings / emails / etc. to be in English. If you have questions on this stuff feel free to drop me a line. My email address is in my profile.
- 13y ago
jk4930 13y ago
Hey Arnold, there are several ways and I don't know--given the current situation that you're not the only one--which works best. So let me give you a series of suggestions to follow up: First, see the German Foreign Office's FAQ and visa regulations: http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/Uebersicht_node.html http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/Uebersicht... http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/EinreiseUndAufenthalt/Visabestimmungen_node.html http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/EinreiseUndAufenthalt/Visa... Since many are coming as refugees from Syria, it could be an idea to apply for a regular visa, either for working or studying in Germany. Note that the German mission in Damascus is closed and you have to contact any embassy or mission outside Syria. They suggest using the embassy in Beirut. Problem is that you need to translate all paper stuff to German and I can't estimate the time it takes. Usually it's 2-10 days for visits under 90 days, it can take longer (even months) for visits over 90 days or working permits. If you come for work, you need an invitation from an employer. But I don't know how long the handling takes with the mission (they have to okay it first), especially since the Damascus mission is down. Perhaps you qualify for the EU Blue Card (skilled immigrants): http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/ArbeitenLebenDeutschland/01-aaBlue%20Card%20english.html?nn=479790 http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/ArbeitenLe... http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ If that's an option, look into the conditions for studying in Germany. Wish you all the best. Tough times.
mathattack 13y ago
Independent of all the visa advice, keep yourself safe!
aberlincompany 13y ago
We're a Berlin-based tech company that has successfully hired programmers from the Middle East, so we have some experiences with the Blue Card visa process and helping with to relocate to Berlin. The good news is, we're still actively recruiting so please get in touch if we can help you: aberlincompany@gmail.com
smutticus 13y ago
1) Get a job in the EU. 2) Have your employer work through all the necessary hassles for you to move there from their end. It will be much easier than you trying to do this in Syria and most European employers will have experience with this. I don't know about Germany but I know in Amsterdam booking.com is always looking for smart folks.
benjlang 13y ago
You're welcome to come to Israel, we have a booming startup scene here.
- United857 13y ago
  Might be a bit hard as a Syrian citizen...
- eliben 13y ago
  Upvoted for the humor.
rado 13y ago
Get EU citizenship from the nearest EU member Bulgaria. Lots of Syrian refugees get EU IDs here. Good luck.
amerika_blog 13y ago
Fight for your homeland, don't just run away and pass off your problems to others. Also encourage Americans to stop their drone-crazed, war-hungry, spy-happy, immigration-positive President (or at least to change his mind). War should be used when there are serious threats. Lately, the USA and Europe have been using war to overthrow the powerful so that mass culture can take over. This is culturally akin to forcibly installing a McDonald's on every street corner.
- Morphling 13y ago
  It's easy to say that from the comfort of your home it's quite different when you might face dying in a crossfire or in another drone attack.
  - coldarchon 13y ago
    What do you think our grandparents did? You think it was easy for them?
  - amerika_blog 13y ago
    I'm facing the collapse of my homeland and intervening. Are you in denial, or part of the solution?
DocG 13y ago
I think if western countries are too hard for you you should try some eastern Europe ones. They have few if any request for asylum. Also visas and permits might be easier to get. You might do it faster, as there are no lines, and after move on to your wanted country. Once you are in EU, borders are pretty much open. although do your research before, I sadly cant give more advice at the moment
pornCode 13y ago
Manwin Montreal (pornhub,brazzers, basically all the relevant porn sites) is always looking for people. From what I can tell we ship in a lot of guys from other countries. The HR team seems to be on top of that. try it out, we might be able to bring you in. manwin.com/careers select the montreal office :) Good luck.
anovikov 13y ago
Becoming a refugee is a bad idea. Get a schengen visa, go to a country like Latvia, show them your references, bank statement with decent documented income, open a company (costs 1000-2000 EUR), and get a residence visa. Takes a few months but you can live most of that time on a 90/180 schengen visa, maybe leaving out 1 or max 2 months which you can spend at home or in a non-schengen European country like Cyprus, which is also close to you that helps. Then get your residence visa and go to Germany - that will not be entirely legal (you'll be supposed not to spend outside of a country where you visa is more than half of your time), but with no borders within Schengen, it is hard to check, and if you don't want to get officially hired for a fulltime job in Berlin (which is hardly your intention), you'll have no problem. You can do that right in Germany, but may take more cash and time, you will always be able to switch a country once your startup gets going and you are more relaxed cash-wise. And yes, being a refugee sucks. Forget it.
- anovikov 13y ago
  Caveat: i have no first-hand experience of getting a residence visa in Germany. It might turn out simpler than i fear, with other posters hinting that. I did that in Cyprus and Czech Republic though.
nakkiel 13y ago
I don't know if I'm late on this or not. Anyway, you may want to go to Thailand for some time. Live on tourist Visa, renew them in neighbouring countries while enjoying time off. You could easily spend about a year without running into any Visa problem and work remotely for the Australian company. There are a couple of startups there (http://playbasis.com http://playbasis.com for example) and many startup guys spend a sizeable amount of time working from there while enjoying life. I suppose it would give you time to prepare for your next move. I can help with anything Thailand-related if you need (though I'm back in Europe now). As I see things, Europe is not the immigration heaven it used to be although there's room for skilled workers due recent policies in most countries. Either way, it won't be simple.
- aforarnold 13y ago
  Thanks.
  - nakkiel 13y ago
    Hey. Good news: http://tribune.com.pk/story/599235/sweden-grants-blanket-asylum-to-syrian-refugees/ http://tribune.com.pk/story/599235/sweden-grants-blanket-asy...
dotmariusz 13y ago
I have posted link to this thread in Polish Startup Scene group, maybe we can help. Getting a work permit in Poland is not hard and Germany is close by.
VargardObyron 13y ago
1) Get on a plane to UK 2) cut your passport into very small parts and get rid of just after landing 3) ???? (don't tell where are you from) 4) Profit after 3-4 months waiting for asylum. At least that was standard tactics from people from arabic countries. Never say where are you from!
- w_t_payne 13y ago
  IMHO, it is easier to follow the rules. If you have a genuine need for asylum, then the UK is obliged, under international law, to offer it. What the UK is not obliged to do is put up with people who try to pull a fast one; and there are a lot of those around, moresthepity. If you present yourself honestly to the UKBA officials, with a genuine need for asylum, with relevant documentation, telling the truth, and not trying to be dodgy in any way, they will (in all probability) grant you the right to remain in the UK for a limited time. Work with them, not against them, and they will work with you. If you have a genuine case, they are there to help you. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people that they see are (very bad) liars, so a lot of asylum-seekers get rejected, on the basis that nothing that they say can be trusted. Of course, they have the right to appeal that judgement, but if you lie, you will get caught out, and the appeal will be rejected.
  - VargardObyron 13y ago
    or they will put you in temporary house and send back to syria just so you can be presented to officials.
krisgee 13y ago
Might be a silly question for some reason but why don't you try and get your Australian company to sponsor you for immigration to Australia?
ballard 13y ago
I would take any option because safety trumps analysis paralysis. It may also possible to build up to working remotely for US-based startups, 37signals or github style. And if you happen to later find a place with low expenses and good healthcare, that would be even better. - Canada (Vancouver especially) - Denmark - Finland - France - Germany - Netherlands - Sweden The US is out for USG failure and lack of universal healthcare.
michuk 13y ago
We're looking for a Python hacker in a personalization & analytics startup Filmaster.TV. We're based in Warsaw, Poland. It shouldn't be a problem getting a work permit. We're already hiring an American guy and we've been through the procedure. Read about the job and the company here: http://filmaster.tv/jobs.html http://filmaster.tv/jobs.html and if you're interested, happy to talk on hangout.
hedwall 13y ago
Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.
hedwall 13y ago
Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.
hedwall 13y ago
Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.
hedwall 13y ago
Just as a heads up, Sweden have decided to give anyoneleaving Syria permanent residence because of whats happening. The info is in Swedish but maybe you want to Google Translate it or something. http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/alla-syrier-far-permanent-uppehallstillstand http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/alla-syrier-far-permanent-...
razzaj 13y ago
Came across this today. http://m.thelocal.se/50030/20130903/ http://m.thelocal.se/50030/20130903/

298 points by aforarnold 13y ago

w_t_payne 13y ago

Find a lawyer in Germany, and get advice from them before you go. My knowledge is both limited, 12+ years outdated, and restricted to the UK, but here is my tuppence-worth anyway: 1. It is both a legal and a bureaucratic process. 2. Apply for asylum at the first possible opportunity. At the border crossing-point or airport, if possible. 3. Don't lie. 4. Be prepared with documentary evidence to back up any statements that you are going to make. 5. If possible, have documentary evidence that you are facing persecution, or that your life is in danger. (Sounds silly in the current situation, I know, but anyway...) 6. Make sure that a friendly party (or your lawyer) has a copy of these documents. It might be easier, if the danger looks like it is going to be temporary, to reach out and try to get somebody to "host" you, and go on a visitor's visa.

angerman 13y ago
I second what w_t_payne said. The following are just some ideas, please keep in mind that I'm no lawyer! This is no legal advice at all! If you do have relatives in Germany, that might be a route to explore. I heard something in the news, that this may be an option. For working though, that's going to be a tough one. Reading the Wikipedia article (http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbeitserlaubnis http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbeitserlaubnis) right, it states that: "Asylbewerber dürfen für die ersten 12 Monate überhaupt nicht arbeiten (§ 61 Abs. 2 AsylVfG), anschließend gilt ein nachrangiger Arbeitsmarktzugang nach der BeschVerfV (siehe oben)." Which translates to: people seeking asylum must not take up any employment for the first 12 month. As well as "Asylberechtigte, Konventionsflüchtlinge (§ 25 Abs. 1 und 2 AufenthG) sowie Ausländer mit einer Niederlassungserlaubnis (§ 9 Abs. 1 AufenthG) haben nach dem Aufenthaltsgesetz ein Recht auf Erwerbstätigkeit.", which transaltes to: people granted asylum (and some others) holding a residence permit, are allowed to work. That's both ends of the spectrum, so there may be some middle ground after 12 month. I'm not lawyer though! Finally, I think, maybe the folks from PRO Asyl may be the right ones to ask. See: http://www.proasyl.de/en/contact/ http://www.proasyl.de/en/contact/ PS: regarding hosting, from my exprience it's a somewhat lengthy progress, depending on the regonal administration. Your host will have to provide financial standing for your stay (requirements differ for the duration of your stay), with that he or she has to send that document certifying the financial standing as well as a signed invitation to you (the original), with which you have to go to the german emabassy in your country and apply for a temporary visa.

Create 13y ago

http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/refugee-influx-reveals-german-asylum-policy-shortcomings-a-919488.html http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/refugee-influx-r...

deleted 13y ago

[deleted]

mschuster91 13y ago

Forget Germany as an asylum target. Our politicians have massively restricted asylum acceptance and even for those who do get accepted it's a hell of a fight and even more paperwork. Also, you have the problem that you likely won't even be able to enter the European Union, except if you smuggle yourself via the Turkish-Greek border - but then again, the Germans simply fly you to Greece because this is the place where you entered the European Union technically.

agiamas 13y ago
Sorry for your situation and I hope you stay safe! If you smuggle yourself via the Turkish-Greek border then you are stuck in the wonderful country of Greece forever basically. High unemployment, laws that are really unfriendly to asylum seekers (less than 2% acceptance rate) and the nazist party (facepalm..) has risen from obscurity to 5% in the latest elections, to 15% in the polls... So less than ideal environment for a programmer :) Too many people have gone that route and now are stuck here because of that Dublin 2 convention that will return asylum seekers to the country that they entered the EU in the first place... So do whatever you can to avoid Greece as an entry country to EU. Try Sweden, you would love it except for the weather :)

olalonde 13y ago

You might find this Wikipedia article helpful in case you change your mind about Germany: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_ci...

Lrigikithumer 13y ago

I don't really have anything to offer but I do want to wish you good luck, I hope you get out safely.

linuxlizard 13y ago
Same here. Best of luck to you.

znt 13y ago

It would be easier to escape to Turkey first. Later on you can try your chances with European countries via their embassies in Ankara or Istanbul.

bayesianhorse 13y ago

I'm not an expert. But if you are seeking asylum, you will not be allowed to work for about a year. The biggest problem with Asylum in Germany is probably how to enter Germany before any of the other countries between Germany and Syria... You might try a "blue card", if you can get a good salary. But I am not sure how easy that is from Syria at the moment... Also keep in mind that islamophobia in Germany is rising across the board. And no, my fellow Germans generally make no distinction between copts, syrian christians or muslims.

pixelkritzel 13y ago

Hi. To get asylum in Germany is difficult. First of all, make sure that you take a direct flight to Germany. If you enter any other European Country before, you have to get asylum there. Second and maybe more important. If you try to get an asylum in Germany, you are not allowed to work for the first year. It's crazy and doesn't make any sense. If you still want to get here. And it's a great city. Here is the Email address of the refugee help in Berlin: buero@fluechtlingsrat-berlin.de

9392732 13y ago

Seek asylum in the first safe country or Turkey, then contact other countries embassies.

icecreampain 13y ago

Come to Sweden. The Swedish government hands out permanent residence to anyone who wants one. Got 10 kids? Not a problem. Bring them along, the Swedes will gladly pay for everything without questions. They'll pay you so much money each month for all your kids and to help you along that you'll be making more than most middle-management here. And if you do encounter a Swede that questions why you wanted asylum in Sweden instead of another arab country with similar culture and language, just call him a racist. That'll shut him up. Want some Swedish pussy on the side? Swedish girls are the most naive, PC-indoctrinated females on this side of the solar system. They'll sleep with you in a heartbeat. Feel like slapping her around to teach her her place? That's ok, she'll forgive you and excuse the behaviour with "that's his culture and we must be understanding of other Swedes' cultures". All schoolkids are taught that all immigrants, each and every one, is just as valuable and productive member of Swedish society as even the most hard-working Swede. sigh

GoldfishCRM 13y ago
Gå iväg troll
baseraid 13y ago
Is there any way to report people like him?
- tomelders 13y ago
  The summer holidays will be over soon.
- deleted 13y ago
  [deleted]
  - SuperChihuahua 13y ago
    He's not talking to you! Notice the [dead] = deleted comment
- um304 13y ago
  Why would you report him?

sveme 13y ago

There are some schemes in place that make it easier for non-EU nationals to get a work permit in Germany, it would require you to find an employer that pays a wage above a certain threshold (I believe it's called Blue Card). A really helpful english-speaking source for any expat information on Germany is the http://toytowngermany.com/forum http://toytowngermany.com/forum forum, especially the lengthy thread on visas and work permits: http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=46755 http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=4675... Here's the thread for the Blue Card scheme: http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=267365 http://www.toytowngermany.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=2673... Hope that helps a tiny bit and good luck! Edit: Another link to official information on the Blue card: http://www.bluecard-eu.de/eu-blue-card-germany/ http://www.bluecard-eu.de/eu-blue-card-germany/

guido4000 13y ago
The threshold for a blue card work permit as a developer has been lowered to 36.192 Euro a few months ago. You just need to get a proper work contract to be eligible for the visa.

yk 13y ago

I would also advise against Germany, one of the problems is that people who seek asylum in Germany are not allowed to work. ( I know nothing about other countries, but if you work for an Australian company, it would perhaps best to ask them for help.) Good luck and stay safe.

sspiff 13y ago
I would follow yk's advice: it is much easier to get a Visum when you are invited to work for a company. Is asking the startup for employment an option?

swissnamir 13y ago

i feel your pain. its unfortunate to be Syria now, i heard recently Sweden is approving asylum applications in the EU on a smaller scale. call the embassy to double check. anyhow forward me your CV and email and let's connect, tech-wise we are recruiting node.js - backend dev if this could help. here's my contact: swissnamir@gmail.com

twelvechairs 13y ago

I think you are likely to have greater luck on a working visa than as an 'asylum' seeker (which European governments consider themselves flooded by, and you'll have to prove specific persecution in your home country rather than skills in your job). What you need is the right visa which your skills can qualify you for and will lead to permanent residency or citizenship. This will vary by country. A difficulty with Germany may be that a lot of the process will be hard to understand if you can't read German. Good luck to you. I (white Australian) visited Syria a few years ago. Every piece of news I hear now from Syria just saddens me.

progx 13y ago

Asylum and Work are 2 different things and in germany they accept only one. 1. Asylum and you cant work. 2. Work, but for that you need many many papers and time.

don_draper 13y ago

I'd be curious what a fellow hacker on the other side of the world thinks about the current situation.

GoldfishCRM 13y ago

I am not an expert so don´t take my word for it. But I heard that a general role has always been that you have to get to the country you which to have asylum in in order to apply. European union is discussion a banded that rule for Syria but I dont know the status of that decision. An other rule is that you have to apply for asylum in the first country you get into. However... Sweden also spend lots of money on a virtual embassy in second life. Read more about it here: http://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Lifestyle/Reading/Second-Life/ http://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Lifestyle/Reading/Second-Life/ Maybe you can do a think of virtually applying for visa in sweden and write a pressrelease and push it on mynewsdesk.com. Startup community is also big in Sweden and we need skilled developers (Im swedish). Carl Bildt,Foreign Minister of Sweden since 2006 (https://twitter.com/carlbildt https://twitter.com/carlbildt) is very active on twitter and in my guess most likely to respond to a virtual request for visa by twitter and second life. This is a long shot but something you can try by your computer. When you get visa in any EU country it is easy to move to germany and travel over boarders within EU.

troels 13y ago

Might be worth contacting these guys for advice: http://www.deutschsyrischegesellschaft.de/ http://www.deutschsyrischegesellschaft.de/ (I just googled my way to this, so I don't know how helpful they are)

michalu 13y ago

Hi I will update this post, but I think you have several options. Try to get to any country you can that is in Schengen, once you are in you can carry on your freelance work, apply for working visa and go to Berlin for interviews. If you find a company to work for they will help you out, almost every country is in demand for devs. I theory, I believe you may just come to Europe and if you state at the border that you seek an asylum they can't refuse you ( according to international laws, until your asylum is decided on ) and then take it from there. Turkey is the closest country you don't need a visa for. I will make an update but in any case don't double-check everything yourself, those are few things I vaguely remember from school.

ig1 13y ago

Your best solution might be to move to whatever country will be most likely to accept your asylum request (and preferably will let you continue to remotely work) and then apply for a work visa to a country with more of a tech scene.

parasight 13y ago

German here. I think asylum isn't what you want. If the company in Australia that you worked for can not help you get in touch with companies in Germany. Tell them what you can do for them and about your situation. A lot companies are used to employ IT professionals from all over the world and know how to do get you here.

antocv 13y ago

Skip Germany and go to Sweden or England, where people are more than happy to speak English, and there is already many Syrians in Sweden, especially in Sodertalje. Sweden will accept you based on your skills far more easily than Germany, all you need is to find a job, and right now the market is open for a guy of your skills - programmers are in high demand. Look around on various Sweden/Stockholm job posting sites, from there you get the visa and safety. The startup scene is also nice. As someone else mentioned in Germany as asylum seeker you arent allowed to work. You can come to Sweden and seek asylum and you'd be allowed to work, and when you do sign a contract then you can get a permit to stay and cancel the asylum request. PM me and Ill give you names of good companies that are on the lookout to hire. As others said, to be able to apply for asylum in EU country X, you have to first set foot in that country X and not in another one, so, go to Turkey or Israel and then fly to Sweden from there. Sweden is also more flexible, its a country where they look out for the best interest of you as a human (mostly), so if you come to Sweden and continue working for Australian company - it is enough to get a work permit, all you have to do is prove that you earn more than minimum amount, I believe around 1500usd and pay taxes, to be accepted. As a war refugee my self, I urge you strongly to leave Syria now, for the love of god no matter the price, buy those tickets and get the hell out of there and far away as possible, Sweden, Canada, Australia. (Not Germany, France, Italy, USA, Turkey they all suck.) Your life is all you got, dont waste it on that war. Take with your closest family if you can.

leokun 13y ago
Is going to Turkey from Syria safe? Maybe it makes sense to go to Iran first.
- antocv 13y ago
  He should know that better than us, we are further away from the war. Possibly even going to Iraq first would be an option. However, now I am reminded that Syria has banned all males 18-42 from leaving the country. So, it isnt easy, you basically have to escape through smuggle-lines/unguarded border. EDIT: If I may speculate, the safest option would be to get to the coast and take a ship to anywhere that isnt Syria. Another EDIT: Try to go to the kurdish areas, they will probably let you go to Turkey or Iraq.

OoTheNigerian 13y ago

Sorry about your situation. Are you Syrian? It may be easier to get to a country that does not require you having a visa then you decide on what to do later. As a dev, you can work remotely and earn money. Check this out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_ci.... Best of luck man.

wslh 13y ago
Yes, I agree. In the worst case you do not have time to follow any asylum or inmigration procedures.
ra 13y ago
That's great information. I'd get out of there now; Equador doesn't require a visa and looks like a great place to go and work out what to do next.

hrvbr 13y ago

If one EU state offers you asylum, which shouldn't be too hard because your country is notoriously dangerous, then you can work anywhere in the EU. So you could get asylum from Italy or France, then move to Berlin when you have your papers, which takes several months during which you can't have a declared job (in France, they may make sure you don't work by sending you to a transit camp, which is basically a jail). If you tell them you're an experimented software engineer, it may be much faster to get a work visa than asylum. Ask for this work visa to each embassy in Damascus. Also, Morrocoan cities are growing like crazy. There may be some business to do there and they may give visas more easily.

NicoJuicy 13y ago

I'm no expert. But your chances in Brittain are a lot higher i presume (no passport even required). But you should check up on that first though :)

moondowner 13y ago
It depends from where you come from. For Syrian citizens visa is required for Brattain. In fact, for all European countries it is required. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_citizens https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Syrian_c...
smalltalk 13y ago
Really? You can get into the UK without a passport from Syria these days?

marvin 13y ago

I am no expert on asylum situations, but my impression is that the first country in the European zone that you enter is the one that decides which asylum rules you'll follow. You need to speak to a lawyer. Sorry I can't provide any more insight than this. Good luck.

laserbrain 13y ago

As an asylum-seeker you are not allowed to work in Germany. You will be “stored” in a camp and are forced to stay there until you can move back to Syria. Better go to a Scandinavian country, where you will be treated as a human beeing.

jsilence 13y ago
As a german I am ashamed to read this, because I have to agree. Embarrassing.
- slowmotiony 13y ago
  I used to live next to a shelter like that, and the thing is a total shithole. Walls destroyed, stinks like hell, major crime around the shelter. A week before I left a 11 year old girl was gang-raped by the asylees. I do not blame germans who decide it's best for them to just send the asylum seekers back to their own countries.
  - jsilence 13y ago
    I disagree. The main principle of humanitarian help is very valuable. We shall not abandon our core values, just because some people go ahead and cheat on us. Yes, some do. I know that and I don't like that either. But. In general every person on the planet should be able to live peacefully and in dignity and if leaders in other countries do not build a system that is capable of providing this for all inhabitants, we should give them asylum and protect them from harassment. Regarding those who are leaving their country and seeking asylum only for economical reasons, trying to escape poverty and a bleak future prospect, we shall not forget that a lot of our wealth is build on exploiting other countries. Our wealth is built on a system, that lets money and goods flow while disallowing the same freedom for people. No, there is no excuse for rape and there never can be. But before we judge these people we should always reconsider: Why are they here? What is their situation in the country where they come from? What kind of chance do they have in their country? What kind of chance do they have here? Do we give them a chance to behave and act well? I refuse to follow the growing mob that does not reflect on the global situation, that does not differentiate and treats every foreigner the same, that suspects that every refugee is a criminal, dirty and trying to rape our children.

illumen 13y ago

German immigration lawyers who specialise in software developers. I can recommend them. http://www.vpmk.de/ http://www.vpmk.de/ Berlin is very welcoming to qualified software devs. Best of luck!

realrocker 13y ago
Is it really? Would love to work in Berlin for a while.

micheljansen 13y ago

You use the word asylum, which has a very specific meaning, but if you can find a skilled job, you might be able to migrate to another country through more conventional and less bureaucratic means. IANAL, but those are my 2 cents.

gregorycarter 13y ago

This is one of the best uses of Ask HN I've seen in a long time. Best of luck.

jfrm 13y ago

Have you tried the UN Refugee Agency? http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/home http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/home

aforarnold 13y ago
Not yet, thanks for the link.

random2435 13y ago

I work at a berlin startup that is interested in the skillset that you posted. Send me a mail to irit.applebaum {at} gmail.com and ill try to help you.

level09 13y ago

I'm a Syrian hacker myself, and I can suggest you a better option. Go to Dubai, it is easy to get a visit visa first, if you are in damascus you can go through Beirut Airport as the path is still safe between the cities (got many friends coming through that route). then you can try to find a job in Dubai (should be easier as the economy is growing and since you speak the language), I myself know many startups and companies and will try to help you as well. if you find a good job in Dubai you might give up the whole idea of moving to Europe as the standard of living is really high and the country is tax-free and amazing. but still you should be able to get a Schengen visit visa easily (especially if you work for a good company).

Blahah 13y ago
This sounds like a good plan - you've got a definite escape route and high probability of getting a comfortable life a the other end.
ck2 13y ago
This of course is assuming the poster isn't female. Do not go to Dubai if you are a woman.
- level09 13y ago
  Not really, if you are a woman that would triple your chances of finding Jobs and great life. The amount of respect and importance women get in Dubai is incomparable to any other country.
  - mkl 13y ago
    Rape victims can be jailed for over a year for "extramarital sex". That is not respect. http://www.ibtimes.com/dubai-safe-female-travelers-norwegian-woman-jailed-over-rape-report-warns-others-1354317 http://www.ibtimes.com/dubai-safe-female-travelers-norwegian...
    - deleted 13y ago
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restlessmedia 13y ago

Try and stay away from England, they'll tax you right down to the amount of hairs you have on your nuts.

grobmeier 13y ago

Germany is difficult, but not impossible. As an alternative you could try not to get asylum, but a blue card (EU). Unfortunately you'll need a university degree + yearly incoming in 2013 of 46.400 OR uni degree + special demand in germany (IT is such an area) + yearly income of 36.192. The good thing is, according to my research the income requirement is floating. In other terms, you just need an income which is "usual for your region". Of course, you would need a visa too. What I am trying to suggest is you search an potential employer first and ask him to deal with the visa/eu card details. That way you wouldn't get the german citizenship in first glance; not sure if you really aim at that or if you would like to return after the war. Anyway you can reach citizenship after living 8 years in germany (please note there are some restrictions, like no criminal acts, accepting liberal and democratic orders and so on). I believe with your skills you might have a good chance to find a position in the Berlin or even Munich scene. Just prepare a CV and try to contact as many startups as you can. Look out for guides like this: http://www.berlinstartup.de/startup-guide.php http://www.berlinstartup.de/startup-guide.php http://berlinstartupjobs.com/ http://berlinstartupjobs.com/ Good luck and take care mate. Links: http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_566780/Dienststellen/besondere-Dst/ZAV/arbeiten-in-deutschland/DE/amz/merkblaetter/amz-arbeitsmarktzulassung-info-an-ag.html http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_566780/Dienststellen/besonde... http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_616850/Navigation/Dienststellen/besondere-Dst/ZAV/arbeiten-in-deutschland/DE/amz/migration-check/migration-check-nav.html http://www.arbeitsagentur.de/nn_616850/Navigation/Dienststel... (german, despite they aim for migrants. Send them to potential employers).

aforarnold 13y ago
One of the reason for choosing Germany as some of my friends are living there, though I dont know will it help or not. And after the discussion seems its better not to get asylum.
- johnvogel 13y ago
  Hey, maybe you try this page: http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ Here you can make a quick check if you are eligible of getting a EU Blue Card for Germany: http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/making-it/quick-check/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/making-it/quick-check/ This information might be useful for you as well: "By the way: are you still job-hunting and would like to look for a post that corresponds to your qualifications in Germany? In that case, you are entitled to a six-month visa. The condition is that you have a university degree and are able to support yourself while you stay in Germany. Please note that the visa entitling you to hunt for jobs does not entitle you to work. Once you find a suitable post, you can immediately apply for the appropriate residence permit while, of course, remaining in Germany. You can apply for the visa to the German mission abroad in your area. They will tell you exactly which conditions you have to fulfill to be able to apply."

chrisreichel 13y ago

You should try Ireland. There's a plenty of IT jobs and it's easier to come in than the rest of Europe.

RomanPushkin 13y ago
Not easy for non-EU citizens, unemployment rate is very high. To be able to move there you have to find a job with 60K salary.

dodyg 13y ago

1. Keep your job with the Australian start up. 2. Fly to Malaysia. You don't need visa to enter the country. 3. Once you are in region in a safe place, you can figure out the next step. You will be in the most growing economic zone in the world. Don't go to Europe. Everybody's trying to get to Europe right now.

probably_wrong 13y ago

Well, everyone else has given an idea about why you shouldn't go to Berlin. In case you have a powerful reason for still going there, a few quick points: English is not that common, but is far more common than in the neighboring cities - you probably won't be super comfortable, but you'll survive. If you are on a budget and/or planning to live on whatever money you already have, Berlin is much cheaper than any of the other countries mentioned. There's also a very large Turkish community, in case that means something for you. Keep in mind all the negative comments mentioned, though. This points are valid when you are a regular citizen, but as a refugee they might not apply.

arthalbuwa 13y ago

Good luck mate hope things will work out fine for you.

aforarnold 13y ago

I am not sure what would be the "best" next step, but I want to leave Syria asap. Planning to move to Iraq first then I will go for the next destination. As far as discussed seems I dont need asylum because I do have some skill set that can be fit into a job market. But will I be able to live there for couple of years? This is getting crazy here and I dont know how long I will have the internet connection and other to work in my remote job(though my employer is very helpful). Seems next couple of days will make my way for at least next couple of years of my life.

fauigerzigerk 13y ago
I would advise against the asylum route for all the reasons that others have already mentioned. What you could do right now is to travel to Turkey and apply for a German tourist visa there. Once you are in Germany and out of harm's way you can think about your next steps. This page says that the German embassy in Ankara or the Istanbul consulate will process your visa application while the Damascus office remains closed: http://www.ankara.diplo.de/Vertretung/ankara/de/06__Visa/Visum__Irak/Visum__SYR__S.html http://www.ankara.diplo.de/Vertretung/ankara/de/06__Visa/Vis... Here are the tourist visa guidelines in arabic: http://www.beirut.diplo.de/contentblob/3951508/Daten/3401582/merkblatt_besuchsreise.pdf http://www.beirut.diplo.de/contentblob/3951508/Daten/3401582... I wish you the best of luck!

femto 13y ago

Be careful if you are tempted by Australia, in light of your employer. Refugees are a huge political issue in the current federal election and the two major parties are competing to see who can be the most inhumane. The Australia government is ignoring the UN refugee convention, with refugees without a visa being forcibly, and permanently, exported to Manus Island. The catch 22 is that the Australian government won't hand out a visa if there is any inkling that a person might be a refugee, so the phrase "without a visa" can be replaced with "all". Be cautious of researching refugee issues under your own identity, if you intend to apply for an Australian visa. If you can get an Australia work visa and make it onto Australian soil, you might be able to circumvent the "no visa" rule. In this case, be wary of the possibility of detention, possibly indefinite, inside Australia. Australian officials will also do their best to keep a new arrival ignorant of their rights, allowing them to be deported, so find out exactly what your rights are and what the procedure and legally correct wording is to claim asylum and activate the UN process. If considering Australia, perhaps get some advice from an expert, such as Sr Pat Sealey [1]? (Presumably she can be contacted though her order's South Australian address [2].) [1] http://www.catholicreligiousaustralia.org/index.php/news-a-views/news-and-views/1118-tireless-refugee-advocate-recognised http://www.catholicreligiousaustralia.org/index.php/news-a-v... [2] http://www.sosj.org.au/contact/2col-index.cfm?loadref=6 http://www.sosj.org.au/contact/2col-index.cfm?loadref=6 --- Edit: I'll add that it is not clear to me whether the automatic deportation only applies to refugees who arrive by boat, or to any refugee that arrives without a visa. Further edit: My comment about indefinite detention in Australia applies if you arrive on a work visa then claim asylum, not if you are actually working and have not claimed asylum.

deleted 13y ago
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CReber 13y ago

If you want to get a job in Berlin quickly, post it here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/159595270791268 https://www.facebook.com/groups/159595270791268 Berlin is one of the most peaceful cities I ever lived in.

Sagat 13y ago

I really hope this isn't a scam. I would recommend heading to Northern European countries, specifically the Netherlands and Sweden.

deleted 13y ago

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ivanhoe 13y ago

Don't waste any time, get out of the country asap on regular touristic visa. Usually it means you can stay "on a vacation" for up to 30 days at once and 3 months in total (you just cross the border and return), which should be enough to see what's going on with Syria. Legally you can't work, but if you already have an online job no one will stop you to continue working. If the war starts you can then obtain the refugee status in that country on the basis that you can't return to your homeland. The refugee status doesn't mean that you have to stay in that country, as an educated refugee you can apply for a work visa in other countries through their embassies.

razzaj 13y ago

An intermediate option might be moving to Lebanon temporarily. It is still relatively (to syria) safe. As a Syrian, you dont need visa or residency permit. You can continue your work from here and figure out your next move; namely apply for immigration visas here-and-there.

ekurutepe 13y ago

I'm in Berlin startup scene and I can tell you that is quite easy to get a working permit as a software dev, basically only thing you need besides your passport is an employment contract with more than 33k€ per year. (search term: blue card) Don't go the asylum way if you have the software skills. Blue card is much easier and a safe bet. The processing can take up to 6-8 weeks though… And as for language, at least in Berlin tech companies, english is the language of business…

cubsink 13y ago

I would recommend coming to Sweden. It's a country which developers is within high need. Quite easy to get a job. There is probably a lot of jobs you can get with only english, but Swedish is pretty easy to learn. Sweden has pretty good welfare for asylum seekers (so you will have time to adapt and be able to search for jobs). Living an everyday life with only english is easy. Most people speaks english fluently.

wheels 13y ago

There's a lot of bad information here on Berlin. For context, I'm a non-EU software developer that lives in Berlin and now has permanent residence, as is my girlfriend. Germany is actually one of the easiest countries to get an immigrant work visa for. I would recommend skipping seeking asylum. There's a large enough job market in Berlin for developers that the work visa route will almost certainly be the fastest and least painful for you. If you have a university degree, you should be able to get a Blue Card. In fact, Germany will give you a 6 month visa to visit the country and look for a job. Since you're already working remotely, finding money to support yourself during that time should not be difficult. The salary requirement that others list here is incorrect for software developers. The typical Blue Card minimum required salary is €46,400/year, however, software development is an in-demand job ("Mangelberuf"), which lowers the minimum to €39,192/year, which is above the standard salary that you'd find for development positions at Berlin startups. If you go the Blue Card route, you'll be eligible for permanent residence in 3 years. If you don't have a university degree, you're still in pretty good shape. Then, in practice, what you need is a job offer (with a contract). Your residence permit, prior to getting permanent residence, will be connected to your specific job at a specific company (though in practice this just means you have to go to the foreigner's office to apply for a new visa when you change jobs). This was the old system that I went through (before the Blue Card was introduced, which my girlfriend used). Basically if you have a job offer and a reasonable salary, you're next to guaranteed to be able to get a work permit. I've never heard of a software developer having their request denied. However, that system is not nearly as streamlined, so you actually usually need to already be in Berlin to apply for it. I would recommend finding any excuse you can to come to Berlin on a visitors' visa (language course, conference, whatever) and stay as long as you can. I think you'd be able to find a job and kick off the work permit stuff in a 2 month timeframe. Going that route you're able to apply for permanent residence after 5 years, though it's a slightly nicer version of permanent residence than the one you get via the Blue Card route since it's transferable to all EU countries except the UK and Ireland. Official things in Germany will naturally be mostly in German, but the startup scene functions primarily in English. It's totally normal for job interviews and work meetings / emails / etc. to be in English. If you have questions on this stuff feel free to drop me a line. My email address is in my profile.

13y ago

jk4930 13y ago

Hey Arnold, there are several ways and I don't know--given the current situation that you're not the only one--which works best. So let me give you a series of suggestions to follow up: First, see the German Foreign Office's FAQ and visa regulations: http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/Uebersicht_node.html http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/Uebersicht... http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/EinreiseUndAufenthalt/Visabestimmungen_node.html http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/EinreiseUndAufenthalt/Visa... Since many are coming as refugees from Syria, it could be an idea to apply for a regular visa, either for working or studying in Germany. Note that the German mission in Damascus is closed and you have to contact any embassy or mission outside Syria. They suggest using the embassy in Beirut. Problem is that you need to translate all paper stuff to German and I can't estimate the time it takes. Usually it's 2-10 days for visits under 90 days, it can take longer (even months) for visits over 90 days or working permits. If you come for work, you need an invitation from an employer. But I don't know how long the handling takes with the mission (they have to okay it first), especially since the Damascus mission is down. Perhaps you qualify for the EU Blue Card (skilled immigrants): http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/ArbeitenLebenDeutschland/01-aaBlue%20Card%20english.html?nn=479790 http://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/EN/Infoservice/FAQ/ArbeitenLe... http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ http://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/ If that's an option, look into the conditions for studying in Germany. Wish you all the best. Tough times.

mathattack 13y ago

Independent of all the visa advice, keep yourself safe!

aberlincompany 13y ago

We're a Berlin-based tech company that has successfully hired programmers from the Middle East, so we have some experiences with the Blue Card visa process and helping with to relocate to Berlin. The good news is, we're still actively recruiting so please get in touch if we can help you: aberlincompany@gmail.com

smutticus 13y ago

1) Get a job in the EU. 2) Have your employer work through all the necessary hassles for you to move there from their end. It will be much easier than you trying to do this in Syria and most European employers will have experience with this. I don't know about Germany but I know in Amsterdam booking.com is always looking for smart folks.

benjlang 13y ago

You're welcome to come to Israel, we have a booming startup scene here.

United857 13y ago
Might be a bit hard as a Syrian citizen...
eliben 13y ago
Upvoted for the humor.

rado 13y ago

Get EU citizenship from the nearest EU member Bulgaria. Lots of Syrian refugees get EU IDs here. Good luck.

amerika_blog 13y ago

Fight for your homeland, don't just run away and pass off your problems to others. Also encourage Americans to stop their drone-crazed, war-hungry, spy-happy, immigration-positive President (or at least to change his mind). War should be used when there are serious threats. Lately, the USA and Europe have been using war to overthrow the powerful so that mass culture can take over. This is culturally akin to forcibly installing a McDonald's on every street corner.

Morphling 13y ago
It's easy to say that from the comfort of your home it's quite different when you might face dying in a crossfire or in another drone attack.
- coldarchon 13y ago
  What do you think our grandparents did? You think it was easy for them?
- amerika_blog 13y ago
  I'm facing the collapse of my homeland and intervening. Are you in denial, or part of the solution?

DocG 13y ago

I think if western countries are too hard for you you should try some eastern Europe ones. They have few if any request for asylum. Also visas and permits might be easier to get. You might do it faster, as there are no lines, and after move on to your wanted country. Once you are in EU, borders are pretty much open. although do your research before, I sadly cant give more advice at the moment

pornCode 13y ago

Manwin Montreal (pornhub,brazzers, basically all the relevant porn sites) is always looking for people. From what I can tell we ship in a lot of guys from other countries. The HR team seems to be on top of that. try it out, we might be able to bring you in. manwin.com/careers select the montreal office :) Good luck.

anovikov 13y ago

Becoming a refugee is a bad idea. Get a schengen visa, go to a country like Latvia, show them your references, bank statement with decent documented income, open a company (costs 1000-2000 EUR), and get a residence visa. Takes a few months but you can live most of that time on a 90/180 schengen visa, maybe leaving out 1 or max 2 months which you can spend at home or in a non-schengen European country like Cyprus, which is also close to you that helps. Then get your residence visa and go to Germany - that will not be entirely legal (you'll be supposed not to spend outside of a country where you visa is more than half of your time), but with no borders within Schengen, it is hard to check, and if you don't want to get officially hired for a fulltime job in Berlin (which is hardly your intention), you'll have no problem. You can do that right in Germany, but may take more cash and time, you will always be able to switch a country once your startup gets going and you are more relaxed cash-wise. And yes, being a refugee sucks. Forget it.

anovikov 13y ago
Caveat: i have no first-hand experience of getting a residence visa in Germany. It might turn out simpler than i fear, with other posters hinting that. I did that in Cyprus and Czech Republic though.

nakkiel 13y ago

I don't know if I'm late on this or not. Anyway, you may want to go to Thailand for some time. Live on tourist Visa, renew them in neighbouring countries while enjoying time off. You could easily spend about a year without running into any Visa problem and work remotely for the Australian company. There are a couple of startups there (http://playbasis.com http://playbasis.com for example) and many startup guys spend a sizeable amount of time working from there while enjoying life. I suppose it would give you time to prepare for your next move. I can help with anything Thailand-related if you need (though I'm back in Europe now). As I see things, Europe is not the immigration heaven it used to be although there's room for skilled workers due recent policies in most countries. Either way, it won't be simple.

aforarnold 13y ago
Thanks.
- nakkiel 13y ago
  Hey. Good news: http://tribune.com.pk/story/599235/sweden-grants-blanket-asylum-to-syrian-refugees/ http://tribune.com.pk/story/599235/sweden-grants-blanket-asy...

dotmariusz 13y ago

I have posted link to this thread in Polish Startup Scene group, maybe we can help. Getting a work permit in Poland is not hard and Germany is close by.

VargardObyron 13y ago

1) Get on a plane to UK 2) cut your passport into very small parts and get rid of just after landing 3) ???? (don't tell where are you from) 4) Profit after 3-4 months waiting for asylum. At least that was standard tactics from people from arabic countries. Never say where are you from!

w_t_payne 13y ago
IMHO, it is easier to follow the rules. If you have a genuine need for asylum, then the UK is obliged, under international law, to offer it. What the UK is not obliged to do is put up with people who try to pull a fast one; and there are a lot of those around, moresthepity. If you present yourself honestly to the UKBA officials, with a genuine need for asylum, with relevant documentation, telling the truth, and not trying to be dodgy in any way, they will (in all probability) grant you the right to remain in the UK for a limited time. Work with them, not against them, and they will work with you. If you have a genuine case, they are there to help you. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people that they see are (very bad) liars, so a lot of asylum-seekers get rejected, on the basis that nothing that they say can be trusted. Of course, they have the right to appeal that judgement, but if you lie, you will get caught out, and the appeal will be rejected.
- VargardObyron 13y ago
  or they will put you in temporary house and send back to syria just so you can be presented to officials.

krisgee 13y ago

Might be a silly question for some reason but why don't you try and get your Australian company to sponsor you for immigration to Australia?

ballard 13y ago

I would take any option because safety trumps analysis paralysis. It may also possible to build up to working remotely for US-based startups, 37signals or github style. And if you happen to later find a place with low expenses and good healthcare, that would be even better. - Canada (Vancouver especially) - Denmark - Finland - France - Germany - Netherlands - Sweden The US is out for USG failure and lack of universal healthcare.

michuk 13y ago

We're looking for a Python hacker in a personalization & analytics startup Filmaster.TV. We're based in Warsaw, Poland. It shouldn't be a problem getting a work permit. We're already hiring an American guy and we've been through the procedure. Read about the job and the company here: http://filmaster.tv/jobs.html http://filmaster.tv/jobs.html and if you're interested, happy to talk on hangout.

hedwall 13y ago

Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.

hedwall 13y ago

Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.

hedwall 13y ago

Sweden just decided to grant permanent asylum to anyone who decides to leave Syria. I thought that could be interesting.

hedwall 13y ago

Just as a heads up, Sweden have decided to give anyoneleaving Syria permanent residence because of whats happening. The info is in Swedish but maybe you want to Google Translate it or something. http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/alla-syrier-far-permanent-uppehallstillstand http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/alla-syrier-far-permanent-...

razzaj 13y ago

Came across this today. http://m.thelocal.se/50030/20130903/ http://m.thelocal.se/50030/20130903/