Our handbook “Seeking Asylum in Berlin” for LGBTIQ* refugees is now available in its 3rd edition – revised, expanded, and published bilingually in German and English. The new version includes additional chapters, updated information, and numerous QR codes linking to counselling services, community offers, and important support points in Berlin.
The questions and answers are based on the experiences gained from supporting LGBTIQ* refugees that our project MILES has collected over the past years. We are glad to make the knowledge from our counselling practice directly accessible. To provide information quickly and clearly, the answers focus on the essentials. We strongly recommend seeking further information and making use of personal counselling.
Frequently asked questions include, for example: “Are there safe shelters for LGBTIQ refugees?”, “How can I prepare for the asylum hearing at the BAMF?”, or “What can I do if I need psychological support?”. The handbook also explains topics such as medical care for trans, inter, and non-binary people, as well as how to deal with violence and discrimination.
In the Arrival & Accomodation section, you will find information on registration, housing options in Berlin, German language courses, and ways to connect with community and support networks.
The Asylum Process section guides you step by step through the BAMF hearing, your rights, possible support persons, and what to do if your asylum application is rejected.
The Health chapter covers medical care, psychological support, services specific to trans* and inter* people, as well as sexual health.
Under Violence & Discrimination, you will find practical advice on how to get help if you are threatened, attacked, or treated unfairly.
The handbook is now available as a PDF for download.
From 2026 onwards, you can also pick up a printed copy at our office.
MILES – a project for LGBTIQ* people with refugee and migration experience
Funded by the Landesstelle für Gleichbehandlung – gegen Diskriminierung der Senatsverwaltung für Arbeit, Soziales, Gleichstellung, Integration, Vielfalt und Antidiskriminierung.