Process for Applying for Asylum in the United States

Asylum application in the United States is a legal process meant to protect those who experience persecution in their home countries. The concept of asylum allows individuals who have been persecuted or who fear persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group to seek protection in the U.S. In reality, it is often complex and easily overwhelming without proper guidance.

Steps to Apply for Asylum

• Filing the Application: An applicant is required to complete and file the Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). An application should be submitted within one year of the applicant's arrival to the U.S.A. The form is to be completed with comprehensive information on the applicant's background, reasons for asylum application, and evidence that prove persecution.

• Fingerprinting and Security Screening: Fingerprinting and a security background check. Verification that an applicant will not be a menace to the security of the nation and has no serious crimes on his/her record.

• Asylum Interview: Consequently, the applicant will be scheduled to attend an interview with an asylum officer. This becomes a critical juncture when one is expected to explain in detail why asylum is sought, with the view to establishing the credibility of fear of persecution.

• Decision: Based on the interview, USCIS will mark the application for approval or refer the case to an immigration court if the asylum officer cannot render a favorable decision. The applicant will then have to appear before an immigration judge.

Defensive Asylum Process

For those already in removal proceedings, the defensive asylum process takes place in immigration court. The applicant shall be compelled to argue against deportation by demonstrating eligibility for asylum. A decision shall be reached by an immigration judge.

Key Benefits of Asylum Status in the United States

Asylum status confers numerous benefits on persons granted protection:

• Protection from Deportation: Asylees cannot be removed or deported to the country where they have a fear of persecution.
• Work Authorization: Once asylum is granted the individual is eligible to seek work permits to seek employment in the United States.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Asylee becomes eligible to file an application for a green card after a year from asylum status.
• Family Reunification: Asylee may petition for a spouse and children as well.

Challenges of the Asylum Process

Despite the multitude of advantages of the asylum process, it is extremely cumbersome. The cases may take several years to get resolved due to backlogs and long waiting periods, and applicants have to prove substantial evidence for their claims, which might be hard to gather in some cases. Moreover, without professional assistance, the challenge of the legal system may overwhelm the greater part of asylum seekers.

It is open that immigration in the United States can be dense and sometimes frightening to people who are interested in asylum. That is where Oasis Resource Management comes in. Having rich experience in providing immigration consultations, Oasis Resource Management shall professionally guide you through the asylum application process and ensure that every step is timely and in the right order. Whether you want consultations on documentation or advice on legal matters, or even attending an interview, Oasis Resource Management is ready, committed to your support through the process to make your journey less stressful and burdensome towards finding a new life in the United States.

Let Oasis Resource Management take you to create a safer, brighter future.