What is Political Asylum?
Asylum is a form of protection that allows persecuted people to remain in the United States. The persecution must be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Who can apply for asylum?
- People who suffered persecution in their home country
- People with well-founded fear of persecution if they return
- Victims of gang or cartel violence (specific cases)
- Victims of severe domestic violence (cases evaluated individually)
- People persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender identity
- Journalists, activists, human rights defenders, or political dissidents
Types of Asylum
Affirmative Asylum
For people who do NOT have an active removal proceeding. It is filed directly with USCIS submitting Form I-589. There is an interview with an asylum officer.
Defensive Asylum
For people in removal proceedings before an immigration judge. It is presented as a legal defense against deportation. It requires specialized legal representation.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1
Urgent evaluation
We immediately evaluate your case to determine if you qualify and what type of asylum is appropriate, verifying the one-year deadline.
- 2
Prepare declaration
We prepare your detailed personal declaration describing the persecution suffered or feared, with supporting evidence.
- 3
File Form I-589
We submit the complete application to USCIS. You can apply for EAD (work permit) the following day if 150 days have passed.
- 4
Asylum interview
We thoroughly prepare you for the interview with the USCIS asylum officer. We accompany you throughout the entire process.
- 5
Decision and Green Card
If approved, you receive asylee status. After 1 year you can apply for permanent residence (Green Card).