DENMARK 1. Statistical Data UNHCR data show the number of Palestinian refugees and asylum seekers in Denmark as follows: Palestinian Refugees and Asylum seekers in Denmark537 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Refugees 485 381 314 269 199 Asylum seekers -- 100 13 24 31 UNHCR data regarding the outcome of asylum applications by Palestinians in Denmark show that there were 24 Palestinian asylum cases pending at the start of the year and 31 such cases pending at the end of 2013, but no further details are provided. 2. Refugee Status Determination: The Process As is the case for other asylum seekers, Palestinians entering Denmark must submit an application for asylum to the Danish Immigration Service. Applicants who enter the country without proper travel documents are considered “spontaneous asylum seekers.” Spontaneous asylum seekers must contact the police when they enter the country. Other applicants may apply for asylum by either contacting the police or going to the Sandholm Center.538 The National Aliens Division of the police will take the biometrics (fingerprints and photos) for all applicants. The police will also question applicants about their travel route and reasons for their application.539 Based on the initial questioning, the Immigration Service will decide whether an applicant will be processed in Denmark (in part to fulfill the obligations of the Dublin Regulation). If an application is found admissible, the application will be evaluated on its merits by the Immigration Service. The asylum seeker will be asked to complete another application form in which he or she can explain in greater detail the reasons why he or she is seeking asylum. The evaluation will also consist of at least one interview. 540 During the asylum process, the asylum seeker is usually assigned to an accommodation center. Asylum seekers are not entitled to work during the asylum process.541 537 UNHCR, “UNHCR Population Statistics - Persons of Concern Time Series” (last visited Aug. 23, 2014). New to Denmark [Danish Immigration Service], “Applying for Asylum,” accessed November 18, 2014, http://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/asylum/application_for_asylum/ applying_for_asylum.htm. 539 New to Denmark [Danish Immigration Service], “Application for Asylum,” accessed November 18, 2014, http://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-us/coming_to_dk/asylum/application_for_asylum/ application_for_asylum.htm. 540 Ibid. 541 Ibid. 538 Survey of Protection at the National Level 113

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