The Commission interview (Commissione Territoriale)

Who is this for

Anyone waiting for an asylum interview. It is normal to feel afraid. The interview is not a trial, and the officers need clear and consistent details about your story.

Requirements

You are summoned in writing, usually at your declared address or through your reception centre. Tell the Questura whenever you move.

Steps

1. Before. Meet a free legal adviser (protection-free-help-directory). Write your story in order: dates, places, names, what happened, why you cannot go back. Bring any proof. Medical or psychological reports are very valuable; MSF and other clinics can help.
2. Your rights. A free interpreter. You can ask for an officer and interpreter of the same gender, especially after sexual or gender-based violence or trafficking. Your lawyer can attend. You can ask for breaks. The interview is recorded and transcribed.
3. During. Answer in your own words. If you do not remember, say so; do not invent. If you do not understand the question or the interpreter, say so. At the end you may add anything you forgot.
4. After. You can ask for a copy of the recording or transcript. The Commission decides in writing: refugee status, subsidiary protection, special protection, or refusal. The appeal clock starts at notification, so keep your address current.

Costs & timing

Free. Waits often last months.

Common mistakes

• Thinking you will lose if you cry or need to stop. Pauses are allowed.
• Skipping facts because they were in earlier forms. Repeat the main facts; differences are checked.
• Missing the summons. A missed interview without a justified reason can lead to the case being closed. If you cannot attend (illness), send a medical certificate before the date and call a legal adviser.
• Not mentioning vulnerability (torture, trafficking, LGBTQI+, disability, pregnancy) because of shame.

Where to get help

Free, confidential help exists. You never need to pay anyone to apply or to appeal. See "Free help for people seeking protection" (protection-free-help-directory) and the UNHCR Italy help site (https://help.unhcr.org/italy/). If you are in danger now, call 112 (free emergency number).