Asylum

Asylum protects individuals in the U.S. who fear persecution in their home country and offers a path to lawful status and eventual permanent residency.

Asylum

Asylum allows individuals in the U.S. to apply for protection if they fear persecution in their country of origin due to their race, religion, political opinion, nationality, or membership in a particular social group.

What Is Asylum?

Asylum is a legal status that lets certain individuals stay in the United States because returning to their home country would expose them to serious harm or persecution. Once granted, asylum allows a person to live and work legally in the U.S. and apply for a Green Card one year later.

Who Qualifies for Asylum?

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be physically present in the U.S. or at a port of entry

  • Apply within one year of their last entry into the U.S.

  • Show they have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of future persecution

  • Prove the persecution is due to one of five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group

Those currently outside the U.S. must apply for refugee status, not asylum.

The Application Process

The process begins by filing Form I-589 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After submission:

  1. USCIS schedules a biometric appointment

  2. An asylum officer conducts an in-person interview

  3. A decision may follow in a few weeks or, if referred to immigration court, may take much longer

If denied by USCIS, the applicant may still present their case before an immigration judge.

Employment While Seeking Asylum

Applicants can apply for a work permit 150 days after submitting their asylum application, but cannot receive the permit until at least 180 days have passed. Working without proper authorization could negatively impact their case.

Benefits of Asylum

Approved asylum seekers:

  • Can live and work legally in the U.S.

  • May apply for lawful permanent residency after one year

  • May petition to bring certain family members to the U.S.

  • May qualify for certain public benefits such as Medicaid and SNAP

Legal Support Matters

The asylum process is complex, and small mistakes can lead to delays or denials. Legal guidance helps strengthen the application, gather the right evidence, and prepare for interviews or court proceedings.

If you’re facing one of these bars or fear you might be, don’t wait.
Speak with a member of our team and find out what options may be available to you.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Can US Immigration Counsel help me get a green card through family or marriage?
Yes. Whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen, have a relative sponsoring you, or need to adjust your status, we handle family-based green card cases with care and precision.

Q2: I’m facing deportation—can US Immigration Counsel defend me?
Absolutely. We fight deportation and removal cases in immigration court, build strong defenses, and pursue every legal option to protect your right to stay.

Q3: I’m applying for asylum or a humanitarian visa. Can she help?
Yes. We represent clients in asylum, VAWA, U Visa, and TPS cases—providing strong legal and emotional support throughout the process.

Q4: I want to become a U.S. citizen. Can US Immigration Counsel help me with naturalization?
Definitely. We guide clients through every step of the naturalization process, from preparing documents to interview coaching.

Q5: Can US Immigration Counsel help with immigration waivers or appeals?
Yes. If your case was denied or you need a waiver to move forward, we’ll review your options and build the strongest possible application or appeal.

Q6: I’m an employer looking to sponsor a foreign worker. Can you help?
Yes. We assist businesses and individuals with employment-based immigration, including work visas and green card sponsorship.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel help me bring a spouse, child, or parent to the U.S.?
Yes. Family-based immigration is one of our core strengths. Whether your loved one is already in the U.S. or abroad, we’ll guide you through every step to bring them home legally and securely.

Q: What if I already filed something on my own or with another lawyer?
No problem. We frequently help clients who started elsewhere or alone. We’ll review everything and let you know the smartest next step.

Q: Can I petition for family if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Depending on your current status, you may still qualify. During your consultation, we’ll explore all your options and determine the best path forward.

Q: I got a court notice—what should I do?
Contact us right away. Time is critical. We’ll review your case and act fast to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel represent me if I’m in another state or in detention?
Yes. We represent clients across the U.S. and even those currently in immigration custody. Wherever you are, we’re ready to help.

Q: What if I already lost my case?
There may still be legal options. Appeals, motions, or reopening your case could be possible—we’ll analyze everything and guide you on your next move.

Q: Do I have to be in Florida to work with US Immigration Counsel?
Not at all. Immigration law is federal, which means we can represent you whether you’re in another state or anywhere in the world. Our clients come from across the U.S. and beyond.

Q: Can we do everything remotely?
Yes. From virtual consultations to secure document sharing, our firm is fully equipped to support you no matter where you are. You’ll receive the same care and expertise as if you were sitting in our office.