Asylum Attorneys in Denver, CO
Who Qualifies for Asylum in the United States?
An individual qualifies for asylum if they fear going back to their home country because of persecution or harm. In order to qualify for asylum, they must establish that they are a refugee who is unable or unwilling to return to their country of nationality based on one of the following factors:
- Race
- Nationality
- Religion
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
How to Apply for Asylum & How the Asylum Process Works
Once a person is contacted by Customs Border Protection (CBP), they will be interviewed as to the purpose of entering the U.S. without a visa or entering without inspection (EWI). At this point the person may explain they are a victim of persecution by the government and need to seek asylum due to their race, nationality, religion, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
If an individual has entered the U.S. seeking asylum, they have within one year of their arrival to file Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, to be eligible. Along with the completed asylum form, an individual must include a letter clearly explaining the purpose of fleeing their home country as it pertains to the above categories when applying for asylum.
After the asylum application is approved, the steps toward permanent residency become achievable. The next step is to apply for a work permit, and if approved again, the final step is to apply for residency.
Individuals that have surpassed the one-year deadline may not be eligible to apply for asylum. However, there are potential exceptions to the one-year application deadline. Our team of immigration asylum lawyers can help explore your options. If an individual is granted asylum outside of the one-year deadline, they may not be able to apply for legal permanent residency.
Get Help Obtaining Asylum Today
If you or someone you know is seeking asylum, reach out to our knowledgeable asylum lawyers at Barringer Law Firm to start the application process and find long-term safety within the United States.