Legal representation
Asylum Applications
Protection for people in the United States who fear serious harm if they return home.
Asylum is a form of protection for people who are already in the United States and who fear persecution in their home country because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Asylum can be requested in two ways. An affirmative application is filed with USCIS (Form I-589) by someone who is not in removal proceedings. A defensive application is made to an immigration judge by someone who is already in court. Many people are expected to file within one year of arriving, with some exceptions, so it is wise to speak with an attorney as early as you can.
Our licensed attorney can represent you for asylum matters she accepts. Vista staff can help you organize your documents and understand the steps, but they do not give legal advice.
Who this is for
- People in the U.S. who fear returning to their home country
- People who have received a Notice to Appear and want to raise asylum in court
- Families who want to understand how a spouse or child may be included
What to expect
You meet privately with our team, then with the attorney, who reviews your situation and explains your options. If she accepts your matter, she helps prepare the application and your written statement, gathers evidence, and represents you at the interview or hearing.
The process can take a long time and the outcome is decided by USCIS or the judge. No one can promise a result.
What to bring
- Passport, national ID, and any travel documents
- Your I-94 record or entry papers, if you have them
- Any notices from USCIS or the immigration court
- Anything that supports your story: police or medical reports, news articles, photographs, letters
Questions
Is there a deadline to apply?
In general, asylum must be requested within one year of your last arrival in the United States, but there are exceptions. Do not assume you are too late. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I work while my asylum case is pending?
Some applicants become eligible to apply for a work permit after a waiting period. Timing depends on your case and current rules, and our attorney can explain where you stand.