Standard Operating Procedures: Determining the Legal Identity of Migrants Without Proof of Legal Identity

Identifying migrants without proof of legal identity is complex, requiring structured procedures. To support this, IOM has developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that provide step-by-step guidance to ensure consistency, efficiency and compliance with international standards. Adaptable to national contexts, the SOPs assist immigration and border authorities, law enforcement and other key stakeholders in verifying identity while safeguarding human rights. They outline processes such as screening, data collection and identity verification, emphasizing privacy, non-discrimination and access to justice. Designed for continuous improvement, the SOPs encourage periodic review, training and quality assurance. By establishing clear roles and procedures, they support a transparent and rights-based approach to migrant identification.