Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and the ongoing military action in Ukraine, the International Organization for Migration continues to provide support for the voluntary return of those who wish to go back to their countries of origin.

From the beginning of 2022 the IOM Bulgaria team has provided consultations to more than 40 voluntary return candidates, 29 of whom received support and returned to their home countries in a safe and honourable manner.

For each stated intent for voluntary return, IOM Bulgaria opens a voluntary return procedure, explains to the applicant the purposes of voluntary return and its advantages over forced return, clarifies the status of the applicant, assists in obtaining the necessary travel documents, including medical examinations and PCR tests. organizes transit and landing assistance and provides reintegration support, tailored to the individual needs of the migrant.

Third-country nationals who wish to voluntarily return their country of origin can contact IOM Bulgaria on 02/ 93 94 774 or via email at iomsofia@iom.int or visit the IOM offices in Sofia or Harmanli. This project continues until 31.12.2022.

Voluntary returns are carried out within the project "Assisted voluntary return and reintegration of third-country nationals", implemented by the International Organization for Migration and funded by the National Program of Bulgaria under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund 2014-2020.