Asylum is a form of protection and an immigration status that allows individuals who fear persecution to live in the United States. It can be granted if the individual proves they were persecuted or have a well-founded fear of future persecution because of their race, religion, national origin, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.
People can apply for asylum either while they are in the United States or at a point of entry such as an airport or a border crossing. An application must be filed within one year of arrival in the U.S. Individuals granted asylum can sponsor their spouse and children to come to the United States with them.
The right to seek and enjoy asylum is rooted in international law, including the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, its 1967 Protocol and other relevant treaties and legal texts. The underlying principles are also embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
If you are seeking asylum in removal proceedings, you should consult with an experienced attorney. We can help you submit the facts, evidence and arguments that support your claim for asylum. Our goal is to protect your right to remain in the U.S.
Generally, the most common ground for claiming asylum is that you were persecuted or have feared persecution because of your membership in a particular social group. This includes groups such as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender persons; people who have been tortured or are at risk of being tortured; members of specific tribes or ethnic groups; and others.