There is no formal identification process. Being formally identified, in the sense that a victim can receive a temporary residence permit, is a process usually intertwined with criminal proceedings, meaning that victims most often receive a residence permit when agreeing to testify in court. Although formal identification is not required for a victim to receive assistance by Specialised Counselling Centres it helps if she/he has some form of legal status in Germany and is not under the immediate risk of being unexpectedly deported. The access to accommodation, social benefits, medical care etc. is limited if the victim does not have a legal status. Counselling centres do offer support irrespective of the legal status but cannot cover costs for the above-mentioned services.
