Asylum & Refugee Status
For people who've fled persecution, U.S. asylum and refugee laws may allow for a safe haven. However, not everyone qualifies. Even proving that one is telling a true story can be challenging. Find out more about the rules and application procedures here.
Alternative Remedies to Asylum
Alternative Remedies to Asylum
Alternative Remedies to Asylum
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How to Apply for Convention Against Torture Protection
In case your asylum applicant is not granted, make sure to alert the authorities to any risk that you might be returned to a country where you'll be tortured.
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If you are physically present in the U.S., and are applying for asylum, you should also apply for two alternative forms of relief if you fear persecution or torture in your country of origin.
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Your Rights After a Grant of Convention Against Torture Protection or Withholding of Removal
Many people ask for what's called "withholding of removal" or protection under the United Nations Convention Against Torture (CAT) at the same time as they apply for asylum.
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If you are eligible for both asylum and TPS, you might want to apply for both.
Eligibility for Asylum or Refugee Status
MoreEligibility for Asylum or Refugee Status
Eligibility for Asylum or Refugee Status
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Asylum or Refugee Status: Who Is Eligible?
Understanding what types of persecution qualify a person for asylee and refugee status, the required grounds of persecution, and more.
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Chances of Winning a Grant of Asylum in the U.S.
Learn about improving your chances at winning asylum.
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Risks and Benefits of Affirmatively Applying for Asylum
If you haven’t yet been stopped by U.S. immigration officials or placed in removal (deportation) proceedings, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the best and worst of what could happen next.
Applying for Asylum or Refugee Status
MoreApplying for Asylum or Refugee Status
Applying for Asylum or Refugee Status
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Asylum or Refugee Status: How to Apply
Overview of the different application processes that refugees and asylees must follow.
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How to Obtain Protection From a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Although a U.S. embassy or consulate cannot process applications for asylum or refugee status, they may be able to offer other forms of protection.
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How Asylum Applicants Can Check Status of Case Online
You can use your asylum receipt code to see whether USCIS has received your case, whether your interview with an asylum officer has scheduled, or whether a decision was reached in your case.
More Legal Topics
- After Getting Your Green Card: How to Keep It
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
- Diversity Visa Lottery Green Cards
- Getting a Family-Based Green Card
- Getting an Employment-Based Green Card
- Getting a U.S. Temporary Visa
- Getting Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- How to Get a Green Card
- Immigration Options for Undocumented Immigrants
- After Getting Your Green Card: How to Keep It
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
- Diversity Visa Lottery Green Cards
- Getting a Family-Based Green Card
- Getting an Employment-Based Green Card
- Getting a U.S. Temporary Visa
- Getting Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- How to Get a Green Card
- Immigration Options for Undocumented Immigrants
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