818-907-9688 (LOCAL) 855-DMK-VISALAW 855-365-8472 (TOLL FREE) Home USCIS Processing Times Blog Testimonials Client Login Contact Us POLITICAL ASYLUM APPLICANTS Asylum seekers can gain legal residency status in the United States if they fulfill certain requirements under the immigration law. Although federal laws and regulations govern the asylum process, each request is determined on a case-by-case basis, meaning that an individual’s application as presented to an immigration law officer is the most crucial factor in obtaining the relief sought. Following is a discussion of asylum status under the immigration law. Asylum Asylum is a type of protection that allows individuals who are already in the United States to remain here. In order to obtain asylum, an applicant must demonstrate to the United States government that he or she fears persecution in their native country based upon one or more of the following: 1. Race 2. Religion 3. Nationality 4. Membership in a social group 5. Political opinion Asylum Procedure and Limitations An individual seeking asylum applies directly to the United States government. U.S. law generally requires that an application for asylum be filed within one year of the person’s arrival in the United States, although there are very limited exceptions. The procedure and evidence that is required in an asylum application is significantly more complex than for individuals seeking refugee status before the U.N. In addition, there are dangers of applicants being held in detention while their request is being considered, if they have entered the United States illegally. Finally, asylum applicants cannot seek employment authorization at the same time they apply for asylum. They need to wait for an initial 150 days prior to application. Eligibility of Family Members In addition to the asylum applicant him- or herself, immediate family members may also be eligible for asylum status, and will receive all of the benefits enjoyed by the applicant, provided that those family members were named in the asylum application. Family members do not need to be present in the United States when the application is filed. Permanent Residency Status Individuals granted asylum may seek permanent residency status (an immigrant visa or “green card”) one year after receiving asylum status. Employment Based Green Cards Family Based Green Cards Temporary Work Visas Researchers Nurses and Physicians U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Investors Deportation/Removal/Detention Political Asylum Applicants Visitor Visas B-1/B-2 Student Visas Diversity Visa (DV) Green Card Lottery Victims of Abuse or Violence Should I Retain An Immigration Lawyer? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Immigration Attorney Fees Useful Links Q & A Videos CONTACT US TODAY! Your Name Email Comments Enter Capcha Code Home USCIS Processing Times Blog Testimonials Client Login Contact Us Los Angeles Immigration Lawyer 14011 Ventura Blvd., Suite 402 Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 © 2021 Lawyer Attorney Immigration Law Offices of David M. Kramer. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Disclaimer Website Design by Strategic Wordpress