Process for Applying for Asylum in the United States

Application for Asylum: The applicant needs to demonstrate physical presence, persecution based on race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion; an asylum application should be filed within one year of arrival. The process for an asylum application involves filing Form I-589, fingerprinting, background checks, an asylum interview, and then a decision by the USCIS. Protection against removal, authorization for work, and meriting permanent residence are advantages given to applicants whose applications have been approved. Defensive asylum refers to aliens in removal hearing who need to defend their case before an immigration court. Representation is highly recommended.