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🇺🇸 United States

Asylum Visa

Protection for those fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Must apply within 1 year of US arrival (with limited exceptions). Affirmative asylum: apply directly to USCIS asylum office. Defensive asylum: apply in removal proceedings before immigration judge. Work authorization (EAD) available 180 days after filing (30 days after recent rule changes). If granted, can apply for green card after 1 year. Family members can be included as derivatives.

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Processing Time

Affirmative: 6 months to several years, Defensive: varies widely

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Cost

$0 filing fee

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Duration

Indefinite if granted, leads to green card after 1 year

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Work Rights

EAD available 180 days after filing

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Path to Permanent Residence

Yes

Requirements

  • 1Fear of persecution based on protected ground
  • 2File within 1 year of arrival (exceptions apply)
  • 3Not barred (criminal, security grounds)
  • 4Cannot be firmly resettled in third country

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