Asylum Based on Political Opinion

Immigration law recognizes five general categories for seeking asylum in the U.S.: national, racial, religious, social, and political. If you experienced oppression or have reasonable grounds to expect future persecution because of your political affiliation, you may apply for asylum based on political opinion.

So, how does political asylum work, and what can you do to boost your chances of a successful application?

Who May Qualify for Political Asylum?

You may have grounds for seeking political asylum if you have suffered (or may reasonably suffer) harm because you oppose a dictatorial and oppressive political party or belong to a political minority. However, for asylum purposes, “political opinion” could also refer to:

• Advocating for women’s rights in countries that restrict women’s access to education, employment, or birth control
• Active opposition to domestic violence where local laws fail to defend women and children against domestic abusers
• Being a union member or participating in union activity in a country that persecutes trade unions
• Whistle-blowing activity that implicates governments, major organizations, or other dominant groups
• Neutrality — i.e., refusing to support either of two or more conflicting groups, which could lead these groups to treat you as a dissident

You may even be able to claim political asylum based on a persecutor’s incorrect perception of your political opinion. For example, a person or group may target you for alleged political activity when you engaged in no such activity. As long as the persecutor’s motive was your supposed political opinion, you may be eligible for asylum.

Applying for Political Asylum

You should apply for asylum based on a political opinion by filing Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal), along with corroborating evidence and a compelling personal statement that outlines your situation. USCIS or the Immigration Court will summon you to an interview and, with rare exceptions, issue a decision within 180 days.

If USCIS grants you asylee status, you can apply for permanent residency (a green card) after one year.

Overcoming Hurdles in Seeking Political Asylum

To maximize the chance of gaining asylum status in the U.S., asylum applicants must show a well-founded fear of persecution. You must support your application with strong evidence, such as:

• Detailed accounts, including names, dates, places, and events of persecution you suffered
• Documents like arrest warrants, official letters, and communication logs that record your persecution
• Reports and media articles describing the oppression of people who hold political opinions similar to yours in your country of origin

When seeking asylum, it’s vital to work with an experienced immigration lawyer who can help compile a powerful application and prepare for your asylum interview.

The American Dream Law Office Provides Efficient Legal Help for Asylum Seekers

If you seek asylum based on political opinion, your future, freedom, and life may depend on the outcome of your application. Skilled immigration attorney Ahmad Yakzan of the American Dream Law Office will guide you through your asylum claim and work hard to help you gain legal status in the U.S.

Call 1-866-366-1039 or schedule a strategy session via Calendly to consult an experienced immigration lawyer.