Asylum in the United States protects persons fleeing persecution back home. Because of their big immigrant populations and strong legal aid systems, asylum seekers often travel to California and New York. Still, what should applicants expect, and how does the asylum process work?
Legal questions, application procedures, and asylum eligibility are covered in this blog. Whether you or a loved one are considering asylum, the first step toward safety and stability is understanding how the asylum process works.
How Does the Asylum Process Work in the U.S.?
For those who persecution prevents from returning to their native country, asylum provides a kind of legal defense. Once granted asylum, people cannot be deported and could seek U.S. citizenship and permanent residency instead.
Legal Basis for Asylum
International human rights rules, particularly the 1951 Refugee Convention & 1967 Protocol Refugee Act of 1980, which included asylum provisions into American law, form the foundation of the U.S. asylum system.
- Asylum seekers must show they fear persecution depending on race, religion, or nationality to qualify.
- Opinion on politics
- Partition of a specific social group
Those awarded asylum can apply for travel papers, reside and work in the United States, and sponsor relatives.
How Does the Asylum Process Work? Recognizing the Two Kinds of Applications
Asking for refuge in the United States mostly requires two methods:
Affirmative Asylum Procedures
Those not under removal procedures can apply actively through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using the positive asylum process.
Steps in the Affirmative Asylum Process
- File Form I-589 – Must be submitted within one year of arrival in the U.S.
- Biometrics Appointment – Applicants provide fingerprints and undergo background checks.
- Asylum Interview – Conducted by a USCIS officer to assess eligibility.
Decision: Asylum is awarded should it be authorized. Should denial and the applicant lack legal status, the matter is forwarded to an immigration court for defending Asylum.
Defensive Asylum Process
Defensive asylum is a legal defense against deportation before an immigration judge for those already under removal processes.
Who Qualifies for Defensive Asylum?
- Applicants denied affirmative asylum and referred to immigration court
- Individuals who entered the U.S. without documentation and were detained
- People facing deportation due to visa overstays or other immigration violations
- Steps in the Defensive Asylum Process
Steps in the Defensive Asylum Process
- Master Calendar Hearing – The judge sets deadlines for filing asylum applications.
- File Form I-589 with Immigration Court – Must be submitted before the court’s deadline.
- Individual Hearing – The applicant presents their case before an immigration judge.
- Judge’s Decision – If granted, asylum is approved. If denied, the applicant may be deported or file an appeal.
Eligibility Requirements for Asylum
To qualify for asylum, applicants must meet the following legal criteria:
Well-Founded Fear of Persecution
The applicant must show they experienced past persecution or, should they be repatriated to their own nation, have a reasonable fear of future persecution.
Persecution Based on a Ground Protected
Candidates have to show that their persecution relates to:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political View
- Partition in a specific social group
- Timely Filing of Application
- Applicants must file Form I-589 within one year of entering the U.S.
No Bars to Asylum
A petitioner may be disqualified if they:
- Have harmed others
- Committed serious crimes
- Pose a security threat to the United States
- Were previously denied asylum
Where to File an Asylum Application
The correct application process depends on whether the asylum seeker is in removal proceedings.
Affirmative Asylum: File Form I-589 with USCIS and attend biometrics and an asylum interview.
Whether the asylum seeker is under removal processes determines the proper application procedure.
- File Form I-589 with USCIS, then show up for an asylum interview and biometrics.
- File Form I-589 with the immigration court managing the removal case in defensive Asylum.
Problems in the Asylum Procedure
Knowing the workings of the asylum process is crucial since applicants encounter several difficulties, including:
High Burden of Proof
Applicants must provide strong evidence to prove their persecution claim, including:
- Personal testimony
- Supporting documents (news articles, medical reports)
- Expert witness statements
- Long Processing Times
Due to immigration court backlogs, asylum cases can take several years to resolve.
Emotional Toll
Retelling traumatic experiences in asylum interviews can be stressful, leading to PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
Risk of Denial & Deportation
A denied asylum application may result in deportation. Appeals are possible but require strong legal representation.
Variability in Case Outcomes
The outcome of an asylum case can depend on factors such as the jurisdiction where the case is heard, the judge assigned, and the quality of legal representation.
Safe Third Country Agreements
Some asylum seekers face additional hurdles due to agreements between the U.S. and other countries.
Credible Fear Interviews
For individuals seeking asylum at the border, U.S. immigration officials conduct credible fear interviews to determine whether they have a valid claim.
Detention and Limited Access to Legal Counsel
Many asylum seekers are detained in immigration facilities while awaiting a decision on their case. Being in detention makes it difficult to gather evidence, contact witnesses, and obtain legal representation.
Impact of Changing Immigration Policies
U.S. asylum policies frequently change due to executive orders, court rulings, and shifts in political leadership.
Steps to Strengthen an Asylum Claim
Despite these challenges, knowing how does the asylum process work can help applicants improve their chances of a successful claim:
- Gather Strong Documentation: Providing medical records, police reports, affidavits, and other supporting evidence can strengthen an asylum application.
- Seek Legal Assistance: An experienced asylum attorney can help applicants navigate the complex legal process.
- Prepare for the Interview: Asylum applicants should be ready to provide detailed, consistent, and truthful testimony.
Stay Informed on Policy Changes: Because immigration policies frequently change, staying updated on legal developments can help applicants make informed decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Long Does the Asylum Process Take?
Processing times vary:
- Affirmative asylum cases take months to years.
- Defensive asylum cases often take longer due to immigration court delays.
Can I Work While My Asylum Case Is Pending?
Yes. Asylum seekers may apply for work authorization after 150 days if their case is still pending.
What Happens If My Asylum Case Is Denied?
- If denied by USCIS, the case is referred to immigration court.
- If denied by an immigration judge, applicants may appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).
Can My Family Join Me If I Am Granted Asylum?
Yes. Once granted asylum, individuals can apply for family reunification for their spouse and children.
Conclusion
Understanding how does the asylum process work is essential for individuals seeking protection in the U.S. Whether applying through affirmative or defensive asylum, preparing a strong case and having legal representation are key to success.
An experienced asylum attorney can help increase approval chances by gathering necessary evidence, preparing interviews, and representing clients in court.
At Aftalion Law Group, we specialize in asylum cases in California and New York, providing expert guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.
📞 Contact Aftalion Law Group Today!
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