Opinion ID: 3060080
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Application of the Correct Standard

Text: Under the regulations, the BIA reviews an IJ’s factual findings for clear error. 8 C.F.R. § 1003.1(d)(3)(i). But the BIA may review questions of law de novo. 8 C.F.R. § 1003.1(d)(3)(ii). The application of the law to the facts, such as reviewing whether the facts establish a well-founded fear of future persecution, is subject to de novo review. Matter of A-S-B-, 24 I&N Dec. 493, 497 (BIA 2002).5 Contrary to Jiang’s argument, the BIA did not apply the wrong standard of review. The BIA properly considered whether Jiang established a well-founded fear of future persecution under a de novo review. Establishing a well-founded fear does not involve a simple factual determination; rather, it involves the application of the law to the facts.6 Therefore, we conclude that the BIA applied the correct legal standard.