Many people have gained the right to live in the United States by applying for asylum. It allows them to stay in the U.S. because returning to the country they are from would endanger their lives.
Yet the requirements to apply for it are very specific, and many people are rejected each year.
Firstly you need to know there are two types of asylum
If you are facing deportation, you may be able to apply for defensive asylum to stop the deportation.
If you are not currently facing deportation, you may be eligible to apply for affirmative asylum. You must do this within your first year of being in the country.
How do the authorities determine if I qualify?
You will need to attend an interview with immigration officials once you have submitted your application. Don’t worry if your English is not that good, as you are entitled to have a translator help you.
You will need to show that you face persecution if you return home due to one of several reasons:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Membership in a particular social group
- Political opinion
While you may have valid reasons not to return home due to other threats, such as from a person you owe money to, or a father whose daughter you ran away with, they do not qualify you for asylum.
What If I am not yet in the United States?
You can only apply for asylum if you are already in the U.S., although there may be other options available to apply for from outside.
Immigration issues can be incredibly complex. Consider legal help to have the best chance of success.