A person who fears returning to his or her home country may be eligible for asylum.  In order to be eligible for asylum, a person must fear being persecuted on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.  Persecution is defined as physical or mental harm or suffering that goes beyond mere harassment.

The benefits of applying for asylum are significant.  For example, a person who receives asylum may be able to bring family members into the U.S. as dependents to his asylum claim.  In addition, a person will be eligible to apply for his green card one year after being granted asylum.  Finally, an asylum applicant is eligible to apply for a work permit 150 days after submitting his asylum application.

‍ ‍Applying for asylum can be complicated.  For these reasons, it is important that an asylum applicant hire an experienced attorney who is familiar with the law.  Please contact John L. Wheaton, Attorney at Law at 206-829-8214 to set up a consultation.