When seeking asylum in the United States, it’s essential to understand how the process works and what to expect. This article will give you an overview of the asylum process in the US and approximate timelines for each step.
“Is it the best time to look for an immigration lawyer near me?” you might ask. Keep in mind that these are just general estimates and that the process can vary depending on your case. Ready to start? Let’s go!
What Is Asylum, And Who Qualifies For It?
It can take several months to a few years to get asylum in the United States. The process begins with an application, which you must submit to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If your application is approved, you will be called in for an interview.
After the interview, you will need to attend a hearing before an immigration judge. If the judge approves your asylum request, you will be granted asylum and allowed to live and work in the United States indefinitely.
However, if your request is denied, you may be deported back to your home country. The asylum process can be long and complicated, but it is vital to remember that you have the right to apply for asylum if you believe you qualify.
How The Process Of Getting Asylum Works
The process of seeking asylum can be long and complex. Still, it typically begins with the asylum seeker applying to the country’s government where they are staying.
If their application is approved, they will be allowed to remain in the country and eventually apply for permanent residency.
Requirements For An Asylum Application
- To be eligible for asylum, you must be able to show that you meet the definition of a refugee. A refugee is an unable or unwilling person to return to their home country. Reasons for this could be because of a well-founded fear of persecution.
- This persecution must be based on the following five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- To qualify for asylum, you must also show that you are unable or unwilling to return to your home country due to the persecution you face.
Average Amount Of Time It Takes To Get Asylum In The US
The average time it takes to get asylum in the United States is about five years. The process can be very long and frustrating, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Many people have gone through the same thing and come out the other side.
Here are some things you can do to help make the process a little easier.
- Stay organized. Please keep all of your paperwork in one place to easily find it when you need it.
- Be patient. The process can be prolonged, but it is essential to remember that you will eventually get asylum.
- Reach out to others who have been through the process. Many organizations and groups can offer support and advice.
If you believe you qualify for asylum, don’t hesitate to apply. Remember, you have the right to seek asylum if you face persecution in your home country.
Factors That Can Delay The Process
Several factors can delay the asylum process:
- One of the most common causes of delays is incomplete paperwork. Ensure all of your documents are in order before applying for asylum.
- Another common cause of delays is scheduling problems. Asylum seekers are often required to attend interviews and other appointments. If you miss a meeting, it could delay your case.
- Language barriers can also cause delays. If you don’t speak English, you may need to hire an interpreter, adding significant time to the process.
When applying for asylum, keep these factors in mind and avoid any delays that could jeopardize your case. You can also consult with your local immigration law firm regarding the proper process.
Tips For Those Seeking Asylums In The US
If you are seeking asylum in the US, there are a few things you need to know. First and foremost, you will need to have a well-founded fear of persecution based on your Race, Religion, Nationality, Political Opinion, or Membership in a Particular Social Group.
You will also need to demonstrate that you have unsuccessfully attempted to obtain protection from your home country. Once you have established these things, you can begin the asylum process by applying with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The application must be complete and accurate; any errors could result in a delay or denial of your asylum claim. If your application is approved, you will be granted asylum and can live and work in the United States.
If you are seeking asylum, remember to stay calm and patient throughout the process. It can be long and frustrating, but it is essential to remember that you have a right to seek asylum if you face persecution in your home country.
Hiring An Immigration Lawyer
Hiring the right immigration lawyer is crucial if you want to ensure a positive outcome for your case. Not all lawyers are created equal, and it’s vital to find one who has experience dealing with the specific type of case you have.
The last thing you want is to have your case dragged out or denied because your lawyer wasn’t adequately prepared.
Do your research and ask around for recommendations before making your final decision. It may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it for something as important as your future.
How To Choose The Right Immigration Lawyer
Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you choose the right lawyer for your needs.
- First, consider your budget. Immigration lawyers can vary widely in cost, so finding one that fits your budget is essential.
- Second, consider your needs. What type of visa do you need? Are you having issues with any immigration law? What is it? Make sure to find a lawyer specializing in the area where you have problems.
- Third, consider your timeline. How soon do you need to file your application? Some immigration lawyers may be able to work on a shorter timeline than others.
- Finally, consider your location. Do you need a local lawyer, or can you work with someone based in another state?
Keep these things in mind when choosing an immigration lawyer, and you’ll be one step closer to ensuring a positive outcome for your case.
Make Your Asylum Application Easier
The process of seeking asylum and getting approved can be complicated and lengthy. You must have an experienced immigration lawyer helping you every step.
If you need help finding one, don’t hesitate to contact us. We have a team of experts who can connect you with the best immigration attorneys in your area and help make sure your application has the best chance of being approved.
Andrea Parker is a reporter for Zobuz. She previously worked at Huffington Post and Vanity Fair. Andrea is based in NYC and covers issues affecting her city. In addition to her severe coffee addiction, she’s a Netflix enthusiast, a red wine drinker, and a voracious reader.
