What is Asylum?
Asylum is a form of protection that allows individuals who meet the definition of a refugee to remain in the United States. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
Types of Asylum
Affirmative Asylum
Applied for by individuals not in removal proceedings. Cases are heard by USCIS asylum officers.
Defensive Asylum
Claimed as a defense against removal in immigration court before an immigration judge.
The One-Year Filing Deadline
You must file for asylum within one year of arriving in the United States, with limited exceptions for:
- Changed circumstances
- Extraordinary circumstances
The Affirmative Asylum Process
Step 1: File Form I-589
Submit your Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal.
Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
Attend fingerprinting at an Application Support Center.
Step 3: Asylum Interview
Meet with an asylum officer to present your case.
Step 4: Decision
Receive approval, referral to immigration court, or denial.
Preparing Your Case
Strong asylum cases include:
- Detailed personal declaration
- Country condition evidence
- Corroborating documents
- Expert testimony (when available)
Work Authorization
You may apply for work authorization 180 days after filing your asylum application if no decision has been made.
How We Can Help
Asylum cases are complex and require thorough preparation. The Correa Firm provides compassionate representation for asylum seekers, helping you document your case and prepare for your interview or hearing.
Contact us for a confidential consultation about your asylum case.