The asylum process
The asylum process involves several critical steps, each with its requirements and considerations:
- Initial Consultation: Seek legal counsel from an experienced asylum attorney to assess your eligibility and begin the process.
- Preparing the Asylum Application (Form I-589): Work closely with your attorney to gather evidence, document your asylum claim, and complete the necessary forms accurately.
- Filing the Application: Submit your completed asylum application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within one year of your arrival in the U.S.
- Biometrics Appointment: You will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
- Asylum Interview: Attend an asylum interview with an asylum officer. During this interview, you'll present your case, provide supporting documents, and answer questions about your asylum claim.
- Evidentiary Submission: After your interview, you may be asked to provide additional evidence or documents to support your claim.
- Waiting for a Decision: USCIS will review your case and make a decision. This process can take several months or even years due to backlogs in the immigration system.
- Work Authorization: After a waiting period, you can apply for work authorization, allowing you to legally work in the U.S. while your asylum case is pending.
- Hearing: If your application is denied, you have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge. This is an opportunity to appeal the decision and present your case again.
- Final Decision: The immigration judge will make a final decision on your asylum claim.
Navigating the asylum process requires attention to detail, legal expertise, and patience. It's essential to have experienced asylum attorneys like us at Correa & Martinez Trial Lawyers by your side to guide you through every step.