Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme

International Organisation for Migration Vilnius Office (IOM Lithuania) is launching the project "Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) in the Country of Origin 2023-2026" (Project code PMIF-3.01-K-01-01), which will be implemented until December 30, 2026. The project is co-financed by the European Union.

AVRR project is intended for nationals of third countries or stateless persons whose presence in the Republic of Lithuania is irregular. The project aims to implement a sustainable and dignified return of the target group to their country of origin while ensuring basic human rights and providing reintegration services to third-country nationals as they settle in their country of origin, aiming to reduce recurring irregular migration. AVRR is organized by providing essential support to all program participants, tailored to their individual needs.

The project activities include consultations and provision of information sessions and materials that will help third-country nationals make an informed and independent decision to return to their country of origin. It is anticipated that 200 representatives of the target group will use the assisted voluntary return, and no fewer than 40 will participate in reintegration activities in their countries of origin.

Asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected and third-country nationals (TCNs) who are staying irregular in Lithuania (their visa or residence permit has expired) must leave the territory of the Republic of Lithuania. According to the legal acts of the Republic of Lithuania and the EU, these people must be given the opportunity to leave voluntarily. It is often the case that these individuals cannot leave on their own because they do not have or have insufficient funds to purchase a ticket home. If these individuals do not leave voluntarily, they face forced return from the country. Assisted Voluntary Return is often the only humane and safe option for a person to return to their country of origin with dignity. To avoid repeated irregular migration and provide an opportunity for TCNs to establish themselves in their country of origin, reintegration assistance may be provided to those who return.

IOM Lithuania has been providing AVRR for over 20 years. During this period, more than 1,000 migrants have used this assistance. In addition to the main activities of voluntary return and reintegration, IOM contributes to strengthening the capacities of organizations involved in the return process and developing inter-institutional cooperation.

Consultations on voluntary return are provided:

Email: AVR.Vilnius@iom.int

Toll-free phone line: 8 800 12342

Mobile phone: +370 610 01618 WhatsApp: +370 610 01618

The project is implemented by IOM Lithuania.