Who Can Apply for Asylum in the United States?
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Who Can Apply for Asylum in the United States?
Asylum in the United States offers protection to individuals who have fled their home countries due to persecution or fear of persecution. This legal process allows individuals to seek safety in the U.S. and build a new life free from danger. At Lively Law Firm, we provide legal assistance to immigrants navigating the asylum process in the United States. Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step in determining whether you or a loved one can apply for asylum.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Asylum?
To apply for asylum in the United States, you must meet certain criteria:
Fear of Persecution: You must have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country. This persecution must be based on one or more of the following protected grounds:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
- Presence in the United States: You can apply for asylum if you are physically present in the United States or arriving at a U.S. port of entry. Unlike other forms of immigration relief, it doesn’t matter whether you entered the country legally or illegally; you can still file for asylum.
- One-Year Filing Deadline: In general, you must file your asylum application within one year of your arrival in the United States. There are exceptions to this rule if there are significant changes in your circumstances or if extraordinary situations prevented you from filing on time.
- Persecution by Government or Non-State Actors: The persecution you fear must come from either your home country’s government or non-state actors that the government cannot or will not control, such as extremist groups or militia.
Benefits of Applying for Asylum
If granted asylum, you will be allowed to remain in the United States legally, apply for work authorization, and eventually apply for a green card (permanent residency). Additionally, you can include your spouse and children in your asylum application so they may also be protected.
How Lively Law Firm Can Help
The asylum process is complex, and it is crucial to gather the right evidence and make a compelling case to U.S. immigration authorities. At Lively Law Firm, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable legal assistance to individuals seeking asylum in the United States. We will help you through every step of the process, from preparing your application to representing you during interviews or hearings.
If you or someone you know is considering applying for asylum, contact Lively Law Firm today to learn how we can assist you. Your safety and future are our priority.