For individuals who are fleeing persecution or violence in their home countries, obtaining asylum in the United States can be a lifeline. Asylum provides protection to those who are unable or unwilling to return to their home countries due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
If you’re seeking asylum in Raleigh, NC, one potential pathway to permanent residency is through an asylum-based green card. However, the asylum-based green card process can be complicated and challenging, which is why it’s essential to work with an experienced immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the asylum-based green card process in Raleigh, NC. From the eligibility requirements to the application process, we’ll cover it all.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an asylum-based green card, you must have already been granted asylum in the United States. This means that you must have successfully proven to an immigration judge or asylum officer that you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country.
Once you have been granted asylum, you may be eligible to apply for a green card after one year. To qualify for a green card, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted asylum.
- You must not have abandoned your asylum status by returning to your home country or staying outside of the United States for too long.
- You must not have committed any crimes that would make you ineligible for a green card.
- You must meet the other general requirements for obtaining a green card, such as passing a medical examination and demonstrating that you will not become a public charge.
Application Process
The application process for an asylum-based green card involves several steps, including:
- Filing Form I-485: This form is used to apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident. You will need to submit various supporting documents, such as a copy of your asylum approval notice, evidence of your physical presence in the United States, and a medical examination report.
- Fingerprinting: After filing your application, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.
- Attending an interview: You will also need to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. At the interview, the officer will ask you questions about your asylum claim and your eligibility for a green card.
- Receiving a decision: After your interview, USCIS will review your application and make a decision on whether to grant you a green card. If your application is approved, you will receive your green card in the mail. If your application is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or pursue other forms of relief.
How an Experienced Immigration Lawyer Can Help
The asylum-based green card process can be complicated and challenging, particularly for those who have already experienced trauma and persecution in their home countries. That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
An immigration lawyer can also help you prepare for your interview with USCIS and provide support throughout the application process. If your application is denied, an immigration lawyer can help you explore your options for appealing the decision or pursuing other forms of relief.
Conclusion
Obtaining an asylum-based green card in Raleigh, NC can be a challenging process, but it’s a crucial step toward building a better life in the United States. By working with an experienced immigration lawyer, you can navigate the process with confidence
and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. If you’re seeking an asylum-based green card in Raleigh, NC, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced immigration lawyer for assistance.
At our law firm, we have extensive experience helping individuals who have fled persecution in their home countries obtain asylum-based green cards in the United States. Our team of compassionate and skilled immigration lawyers is dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality legal representation to each of our clients.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate the asylum-based green card process in Raleigh, NC. With our guidance, you can take the necessary steps to achieve your immigration goals and build a better life for yourself and your family in the United States.