Language
Whilst there is a specific Refugee Travel Document, the broader term refugee documents can also refer to a range of similar document types that may be presented to airline agents at the airport.
These folks, working in a high-pressure environment, usually need to make snap decisions on whether a passenger with such a document type can be allowed to board their flight. Of course, this is where TravelDoc can help, as all types of refugee document can be checked for allowable travel with instantaneous responses
Refugee documents are official papers issued to individuals who have been granted refugee status or are seeking asylum. These documents serve various purposes such as identification, legal residence, travel, and access to services.
Issued to individuals who cannot or will not return to their country of origin due to a well-founded fear of persecution, this document embodies the rights of refugees and the obligations of countries granting asylum. It upholds the crucial principle of non-refoulement - the prohibition on returning refugees to places where they face serious threats.
These documents usually have a blue cover and may include the wording “Travel Document”, sometimes with the addition of “Refugee” or “Geneva Convention.”
Often confused with the Refugee Travel Document, this is issued to people with no recognised nationality.
Their citizenship may not be acknowledged by their birth country, or no country recognises them as citizens.
Unlike refugees, stateless persons do not necessarily flee persecution. This document usually bears the title “Travel Document for Stateless Persons” and often has a grey or brown cover.
Alien Passport (Foreigner’s Passport or Foreigner Travel Document)
An Alien Passport allows individuals who are not citizens of the issuing country — and who lack a valid passport from their country of origin - to travel internationally.
It can be issued to:
Different countries use their own titles, such as Reiseausweis für Ausländer, Fremmedpass, or Resedokument. Covers are usually grey, green, or blue
Titre de Voyage
The term Titre de Voyage can refer broadly to various travel documents, but in some countries it is issued for specific purposes, such as:
A Certificate of Travel is issued to individuals who cannot obtain a national passport but are not classified as refugees or stateless persons.
Its recognition and associated rights vary widely by country, and holders usually require visas for international travel. It is not considered equivalent to a passport.
Laissez-Passer (UN or EU Travel Document)
A Laissez-Passer is not a refugee document. It is issued to officials of international organisations - most commonly the United Nations or European Union - who travel on official business and cannot use their national passports.
Depending on their destination, holders may still require visas.
The rules for travel with these documents can be complex and change frequently.
For up-to-date information on whether holders of any of these travel documents can enter a specific country, visit TravelDoc for real-time entry status and visa requirements.
Written by Peter Butler, Government Affairs & Strategic Partnership Manager, ICTS Europe Systems
"*" indicates required fields
