Political asylum is a right, founded in medieval times, for people persecuted by their rulers to seek protection in another sovereign country or entity that can offer sanctuary. In the modern world, it’s a discretionary status that can be granted or denied by immigration judges.
Asylum is a separate and distinct form of asylum from refugee status, with the difference being that people who apply for asylum must have both a credible fear of persecution in their home country and a well-founded fear that they will be returned to that country.
The first step in the asylum process is an interview with an immigration officer. If the officer finds that you have a well-founded fear, he or she will grant you asylum and will transfer your case to immigration court.
If the officer does not find that you have a well-founded fear, the judge may dismiss your case or place you in a quicker deportation process called “expedited removal.” You will have a chance to appeal your decision by going to the Board of Immigration Appeals.
During your asylum interview, you will need to bring originals of your documents with you. These include your passport and other identity documents for you and your family members included in your asylum case. You should also bring any additional evidence that supports your claim, such as membership cards for groups you belong to or news articles about the situation in your home country. It is important to bring an interpreter to your interview, if you need one. If you do not bring an interpreter, the officer could reschedule your interview or refer your case to immigration court.
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