The stability and safety of foreign nations is ever-changing. Many individuals who live abroad do not feel safe or secure in their home countries. Some risk traveling through war-torn nations to reach safety in the United States as asylum seekers. Of those who make it to America, some settle right here in Chicago.
Asylum is an important and necessary immigration process that can cause confusion for citizens and immigrants alike. The information contained in this article is general and readers are reminded that no legal advice is conveyed herein. Any questions that arise from the reading of this post should be directed to knowledgeable immigration law attorneys.
What is asylum?
Asylum is legal permission to reside in the United States based on the persecution that an individual experienced in their home country. Religious beliefs and inclusion in ethnic minorities are often grounds that individuals claim for seeking asylum in America. A person can begin the process of seeking asylum before coming to the United States, and that process involves working with the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program after receiving an asylum referral.
Some individuals enter the United States before seeking asylum. The process is different for them. Their processing begins with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Who is eligible for asylum?
Many people who can prove that they experience persecution at home can apply for asylum. However, if a person has previously had a claim for asylum denied, they may not be able to reapply pending a change in their circumstances. Similarly, individuals who traveled through or who could go to safe third countries, meaning countries other than their homelands and the United States, may be denied asylum in the United States because of their other options for safety.
Seeking asylum is not an easy process and it can become difficult to track one’s progress. Individuals can get help with their immigration needs. Individuals in Chicago who wish to seek asylum can contact immigration lawyers for help to begin their applications.
