What does it mean to seek asylum in the US?
What does it mean to seek asylum in the US?
Seeking asylum in the US means asking the US government for protection because you fear persecution in your home country.
A person seeking asylum must provide proof of persecution based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The person must also prove that the government of the home country is unable or unwilling to protect them.
If an individual is granted asylum, they are allowed to live and work in the US indefinitely.
What are the requirements to seek asylum ?
In order to qualify for asylum, you must meet the following criteria:
-A well-founded fear of persecution in your home country due to your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group;
-Proof that the government or people in your home country are unable or unwilling to protect you;
-Having been physically present in the United States for at least one year;
-Proof that you entered the US legally; and
-No criminal convictions, serious health issues, or terrorism involvement that would make you ineligible.
How do people get Granted Asylum ?
In order to be granted asylum, a person must demonstrate that they meet the criteria established by immigration laws.
Applicants must submit a detailed application to demonstrate their claims related to their fear of persecution, that they are unable to return to their home country, and that they can be ensured safety in the United States.
The application must include supporting documents such as
evidence of persecution in their home country,
that they have a valid reason to seek asylum in the US, and
other evidence relevant to their application.
Once the application is submitted, an asylum officer or immigration judge then reviews the application and determines whether the applicant meets the criteria for asylum.
Where do refugees come from?
Refugees come from around the world, often fleeing conflict and persecution in their home countries. According to a 2020 report, the top countries of origin for refugees resettling in the United States were the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burma, Ukraine, Eritrea, and Cuba.
What happens when you seek Asylum?
When a person seeks asylum in the US, their case is referred to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or an immigration court, depending on the specifics of the case.
An asylum officer or immigration judge will review the application and any supporting documents and make a decision on the case. If asylum is granted, the individual will be allowed to stay in the United States and eventually may be eligible to apply for a green card and eventually US citizenship.
