Anyone can apply for asylum in the United States if they meet certain requirements. According to US immigration law, an individual who can show that they suffered persecution in the past on one of the five protected grounds – race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a social group – can qualify for asylum.
The person must also prove that they have a well-founded fear of future persecution in their country of origin, or in a specific geographical area within the country. This is a high burden to overcome and requires a strong case of past persecution.
It is a good idea to have an experienced attorney represent you at your interview. It is a complex immigration hearing and your future in the US may be at stake. Having an attorney on your side can maximize your chances of being granted asylum.
If you are denied asylum, you may still be able to receive more limited forms of protection — withholding of removal and deferral of removal. This can protect you from being forced to return to your home country if there is a risk of persecution and can allow you to work legally in the United States.
It is important to bring a translator with you to your interview. This is especially true if your English is not fluent. It is also helpful to have something to keep you occupied while waiting. It is common for people to be interviewed for hours at the asylum office and sometimes it can take a while for your interview to begin.