Refugee Appeals Tribunal (RAT)
There are two different types of appeal at the RAT stage.
Form 1 – Oral Appeal
If the ORAC issue you with a negative recommendation but find that your application is not manifestly unfounded or is not without merit then you will be granted an Oral hearing at the RAT stage. Such an appeal must be made within 15 days after the negative recommendation has been issued.
At this hearing the Tribunal will comprise of a Presenting Officer who is a representative of the ORAC, a Tribunal member and a Chairperson. An interpreter will be supplied if so required.
It is important to stress that if you fail to attend your oral hearing and do not give an adequate reason as to why within 3 working days then this will result in a deemed withdrawal of your appeal.
Form 2 – Paper Appeal
However if the ORAC deem that your application is unfounded and without any merit then your appeal will be limited to a paper only appeal and you will not be afforded the privilege of an oral hearing. Such an appeal must be made within working 10 days after the negative decision has been issued.
The ORAC must furnish the RAT with all information and documentation it took into consideration in coming to its’ own decision. This includes all country of origin information it had at its disposal.
It is common practice and highly recommended for applicants to seek legal assistance at the RAT stage as the process is extremely complicated and failure to do so limits ones’ chances of success. We at Green Card Visa, retain one of the countries most experienced Law Firms to guide us through these waters to ensure that all our clients are supplied with the best possible service.
