What are the specialised accommodation facilities?

In France, 350 accommodation places for asylum seekers are set aside for women who are victims of violence or human trafficking.

These centres are run by organisations specialising in supporting asylum seekers and beneficiaries of international protection who are victims of violence or human trafficking. These centres, most of which cater exclusively to this group, provide a safe environment.

Specially trained social workers are on hand to listen to you, help you and support you. External professionals also visit regularly, such as nurses, psychologists and facilitators of support groups.

Who can stay there?

The centres can accommodate women seeking asylum or those with protected status.

You may be admitted for one of the following reasons:

• You have reported being a victim of violence.
• You have reported being a victim of a human trafficking network.
• Professionals have identified that you are likely to be a victim of violence (domestic, family or other forms) or of a human trafficking network.

How can I stay there?

To be referred to these centres, you must inform an officer at the French Office of Immigration and Integration (OFII) of your situation during your appointment at the OFII. You can also inform the social workers supporting you of your situation at any stage of your asylum application process. An OFII officer will then be notified and will be responsible for referring you to the accommodation best suited to your needs.  

If there is no suitable accommodation in the region where you live, or if you need to be moved to another location for your safety, the OFII may offer to refer you to another region.

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