To immigrants worldwide, the United States is a great nation known for freedom, wealth, and influence. With other nations in turmoil and civil unrest, it makes sense for people to come to the U.S. seeking safety and protection from the dangers abroad.

Each year, the U.S. welcomes people who are suffering persecution in their home countries because of their race, religious affiliation, nationality, membership in a certain group, or because of their political beliefs.

These people come to the U.S. seeking asylum, which is a form of protection.

Are you eligible for asylum?

If you are in grave danger in your home country, you may be eligible for asylum. If U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines that you qualify, you should be allowed to live and work in the United States.

What if you are not alone? What if you want to bring your spouse and your children to the U.S. with you? In that case, you would include them on your application when you file Form I-589, Asylum for Withholding of Removal.

Not all children will qualify. If you wish to include your children on your application, they must be under the age of 21, and they cannot be married.

Working in the United States

Often, when people come to the United States, they need to work so they can support themselves and their family. Please note that you are not able to apply for the permission to work (employment authorization) at the same time you submit your asylum application.

Instead, you have to wait until 150 days have passed since you applied for asylum, plus the USCIS must not have made a decision on your application. If you are granted asylum, however, you can get a job right away.

For additional information about applying for asylum, use our directory to find an immigration attorney to help you!