What is asylum?

Asylum is a form of protection for people in the US who fear persecution in their home country. It allows you to stay in the US. There are three ways to apply: affirmatively, defensively, and in an expedited removal proceeding. Learn more about asylum. In deciding whether to apply for asylum, there are risks and benefits you should consider.

What are the risks of applying for asylum?

If an asylum officer does not grant you asylum, the government will start a case against you in immigration court, where a judge could order you to be deported. If you are deported, you will have to return to your home country where you may face persecution. This is the biggest risk in applying for asylum.

It’s very important to be honest in your application. If the government thinks you lied about important facts, they may consider your application “frivolous.” Then, you cannot get immigration status, even ones unrelated to asylum. 

What are the benefits of applying for asylum?

One of the main benefits of applying is that you may be granted asylum. This means that you can live safely in the US without fear of deportation or persecution in your home country. If granted asylum, you can bring your spouse and unmarried children under 21.

Another benefit of applying for asylum is that it creates a pathway to citizenship. After you have been an asylee in the US for one year, you can apply to become a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR). After a few years of being an LPR, you can apply to become a US citizen.  

Furthermore, you can apply to work while waiting for a decision. Once you get employment authorization, it lasts for 2 years and it can be renewed. You can get permission to travel abroad and return to the US. You may be eligible for certain benefits including TANF, SSI, SNAP, Medicaid, and resettlement services. You can also get a Social Security card. 

How do I get help?

Immigration is a very complicated area of law. It may be best to consult with lawyer. To find a one near you, visit Get Legal Help.