For many individuals, asylum here in the United States is their only hope at living a free and prosperous life. Unfortunately, obtaining asylum in the United States is not as easy as you may think. However, if you are someone who has fled your native country out of fear of persecution due to your nationality, race, religion, or membership in a particular social or political group, there is a very good chance that you may qualify. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about whether you qualify and how we can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How can I obtain asylum in the United States?
The two ways in which an individual can seek asylum in the United States are as follows:
- The affirmative asylum process: To obtain asylum through the affirmative asylum process, you will have to be physically present in the United States and not involved in any removal proceedings. You must also apply for asylum within one year of the date of your arrival here in the United States.
- The defensive asylum process: This is when someone who is facing removal proceedings requests asylum as a defense from being deported. These cases are heard by immigration judges. If you choose this route, you, your attorney, and the U.S. Government will discuss whether you qualify for asylum and whether you should be removed from the United States or not. While the immigration judge does have the right to decide whether you will be deported or not, you also have the right to appeal the judge’s decision.
How do I know if I am ineligible for asylum in the United States?
Not everyone is eligible for asylum. In fact, there are plenty of individuals and circumstances that may make it so you are ineligible, including the following:
- Being convicted of certain serious crimes, generally involving drugs or violence
- Anyone who has taken part in the persecution of another person due to their race, nationality, religion, and other guaranteed freedoms
- Those who are proven to have resettled in another country before arriving in the United States
- Being convicted of a serious nonpolitical crime outside of the United States
- Anyone determined to pose a danger to the security of the United States
For any additional questions, give us a call today.
Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm
John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.