How to Say "asylum" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “asylum” is “acogida” — use 'acogida' when referring to humanitarian protection, temporary shelter, or foster care, often for vulnerable individuals like children or refugees needing immediate support.
acogida
ah-ko-HEE-dahakoˈxiða
Examples
El niño vive con una familia de acogida.
The boy lives with a foster family.
Hay varios centros de acogida para refugiados en la ciudad.
There are several refugee shelters in the city.
El programa de acogida busca hogares temporales.
The foster program is looking for temporary homes.
Compound Phrases
When used with 'de' (like 'de acogida'), it describes a type of place or family that takes people in.
Confusing with 'adoption'
Mistake: “Es una familia de adopción.”
Correction: Es una familia de acogida. Use 'acogida' for temporary or foster care, and 'adopción' for permanent legal status.
asilo
ah-SEE-lohaˈsilo
Examples
El activista solicitó asilo político después de huir de su país.
The activist requested political asylum after fleeing his country.
La iglesia ofreció asilo a las familias desplazadas.
The church offered refuge (or sanctuary) to the displaced families.
Using 'Asilo'
When talking about the legal process, 'asilo' often pairs with verbs like 'solicitar' (to request) or 'pedir' (to ask for).
Using the Wrong Preposition
Mistake: “Pedir asilo de un país.”
Correction: Pedir asilo *en* un país. (We ask for asylum *in* a country, not *of* a country.)
Political vs. Humanitarian Protection
Related Translations
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