ASYLUM AND WITHHOLDING OF REMOVAL

The United States offers asylum and refugee protection based on an inherent belief in human rights. An individual who is in the United States or applying for admission at a port of entry may apply for asylum, and a person outside of the US may apply for refugee status.

While US asylum law is one of the most controversial and uncertain areas of US immigration policy, there are many specific regulations and rules, making the asylum petition a fascinating and complex process. The process can be completed within a few months or may last for several years.

Although there are other means of relief available, the United States provides three major forms of protection to persons fleeing persecution:

        1. Asylum
        2. Withholding of Removal
        3. Refugee Status