Asylee Visa: Protection for Persecuted Individuals Seeking Safety in the U.S.

The Asylee Visa (Asylum Status) is designed for individuals who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country due to Race, Religion, Nationality, Political Opinion, or Membership in a Particular Social Group.

If granted asylum, the individual can stay in the U.S. indefinitely, work legally, and apply for a Green Card after one year.

Why Apply for Asylum in the U.S.?

Protection from Persecution

Safe refuge from violence, oppression, and threats.

Work Authorization

Employment eligibility after filing for asylum (Form I-765).

Path to Permanent Residency

Apply for a Green Card (Form I-485) after one year.

Family Sponsorship

Bring spouse and children under 21 through Derivative Asylum (Form I-730).

How to Apply for Asylum in the U.S.

Apply for Asylum (Form I-589): File Form I-589 within one year of arrival in the U.S. No application fee is required.
Attend Biometrics Appointment: USCIS schedules a biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment.
Interview with USCIS Asylum Officer: The applicant attends an asylum interview at a USCIS office. If denied, applicants may be referred to an immigration judge.
Receive Asylum Decision: If granted asylum, the applicant receives protection in the U.S. and can apply for benefits.
Apply for a Green Card (Form I-485): After one year of being an asylee, applicants can file for a Green Card.

Asylum Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for asylum in the U.S., an applicant must meet the following conditions:

Physical Presence

Be physically present in the U.S.

Well-founded Fear

Demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country.

Basis of Persecution

Prove persecution is based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group membership.

Within One Year

Apply within one year of arriving in the U.S. (unless eligible for an exception).

Why Atif Law Firm?

At Atif Law Firm, we strive to make your immigration journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Expertise in Immigration Law

Skilled in visas, green cards & deportation defense.

Personalized Legal Guidance

Tailored solutions for your unique immigration needs.

Trustworthy Representation

Clear communication and honest representation every step of the way.

Required Documents for Asylum

Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal)
Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, national ID)
Evidence of persecution (witness statements, news articles, police reports)
Affidavit explaining the applicant’s fear of returning home
Supporting documents proving country conditions

Processing Time for Asylum

Biometrics Appointment: 2–4 weeks after filing.
Asylum Interview: Typically 6 months to 2 years after application.
Decision: May take several months to years, depending on the case.
Green Card Eligibility: After 1 year of approved asylum status.

Asylee