What does possession of valid travel documents suggest about an applicant's eligibility for refugee or asylum status?

Possession of valid travel documents can indicate a potential government inclination against harm. When an applicant has such documents, it may imply that they have instances where they were allowed to travel legally or that they are recognized by their government to some extent. This situation can lead to an assessment of credibility regarding claims of persecution or risk. For instance, if the applicant can travel freely in their country or is able to obtain a passport, it may suggest they are not actively being pursued or persecuted by their government, which is a critical factor in determining eligibility for asylum or refugee status. This context does not guarantee asylum eligibility, but it reflects the nuances of the applicant's situation in relation to the government's stance on their safety.

Valid travel documents could also imply access to protections usually provided by a government, potentially undermining claims of persecution. Thus, having these documents is relevant to the overall evaluation of an asylum claim.