National Mechanism for the Identification and Protection of Unaccompanied Minors (NERM)
The National Mechanism for the Identification and Protection of Unaccompanied Minors (NERM) was created to ensure that no child who is alone in Greece is left without care or protection. It operates under the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, in cooperation with public bodies, services, and organizations that work with children every day. NERM intervenes when a child or adolescent has no caregiver, is living in unsafe conditions, or needs immediate support. Through a network of professionals and services, it secures safety, shelter, and access to care.
Section overview
National Mechanism for Unaccompanied Children (NERM)
How it works
When an unaccompanied child is identified, NERM is activated immediately. Its team:
- arranges safe accommodation,
- secures medical, psychological, and social support,
- provides information on asylum procedures or family reunification,
- offers interpretation in many languages,
- coordinates with professionals who support the child at every step.
Guardians
Every unaccompanied child in Greece has the right to a guardian - a person who represents them, guides them, and safeguards their rights. The guardian speaks on behalf of the child before authorities, accompanies them through the asylum process, and supports them in every major decision affecting their life.
Guardians work closely with NERM and accommodation facilities to ensure that each child receives the support, care, and information they need, always with respect and trust.
How to contact NERM
If you need support or know a child who needs help, you can contact NERM:
- 15107 (free hotline)
- +30 213 212 8888
- +30 694 277 3030 (WhatsApp / Viber)
- sg.vp.nerm@migration.gov.gr
Operating hours:
Monday - Friday 08:00 - 22:00
Saturday 11:00 - 19:00
Communication is available in many languages, including Arabic, Farsi, Dari, Urdu, Punjabi, Bengali, and others.
Why NERM exists
NERM is a care and protection mechanism designed to support children who travel alone or who have been found in difficult conditions. In cooperation with state authorities, international organizations, and NGOs, it helps ensure that every child has:
- safe accommodation,
- access to health and education,
- legal and psychosocial support,
- a guardian who represents and protects them.
Every child has the right to safety, care, and dignity. NERM is here to make these rights a reality.
