The Trump Administration came into office with the express goal of tightening rules related to asylum eligibility. Their efforts have resulted in reduced due process protections for asylum seekers, along with increased evidentiary burdens. Since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Administration’s anti-asylum rule making has gone into overdrive. If recently proposed regulations go into effect, asylum seekers could be denied protection simply for having passed through a third country or for having failed to pay taxes. Worse, these new rules will likely apply retroactively, thus potentially disqualifying some asylum seekers for choices they made years ago. While the asylum process was never easy, all these recent changes have made it much more difficult to successfully navigate the system, especially for those without legal representation. Here, we’ll review some data about asylum grant rates, discuss the process of seeking asylum, and talk about how a lawyer can help.
Data on Asylum Seekers
Unfortunately, it has never been easy to obtain solid statistics about asylum grant rates. One problem is that different asylum cases are adjudicated by different agencies. “Affirmative” asylum cases (where the applicant is inside the United States and initiates a case by submitting an asylum form) and “credible fear” cases (where the applicant presents at the border and requests asylum) are adjudicated by the Department of Homeland Security, by an asylum officer. “Defensive” cases (where the applicant requests asylum as a defense to being deported) are adjudicated by an immigration judge at the Department of Justice. Different agencies track data differently, so we do not have solid statistical information about overall grant rates. But we do have some pretty good data demonstrating that asylum grant rates are trending down and that having a lawyer helps.
According to TRAC Immigration, a nonprofit that collects and analyzes data from our nation’s immigration courts, pro se asylum applicants in 2019 and 2020 were granted asylum in about 13 percent of cases. During the same period, represented applicants received asylum in about 30 percent of cases. So, having a lawyer more than doubles the likelihood of a positive outcome. Also, the data indicates that it is getting more difficult to win asylum. In 2012, about 55 percent of asylum cases (represented and pro se) were granted. Since then, grant rates have dropped—to 41 percent at the beginning of President Donald Trump’s term and to about 25 percent by March 2020.
The Asylum Process
As noted above, there are two basic paths to asylum: affirmative and defensive. In addition, asylum seekers who arrive at the border or an airport and request protection undergo a credible fear interview, which is an initial evaluation of eligibility for asylum.
In an affirmative case, the applicant completes a form and an affidavit describing his fear of harm, gathers and submits evidence in support of the claim, and is eventually interviewed by an asylum officer. For a defensive case, the applicant typically appears before an immigration judge two times. The first appearance is called a master calendar hearing, which only takes a few minutes. At that stage, the judge determines whether the applicant is “removable” from the United States and what relief she is seeking (asylum and/or other types of relief). The judge then sets a date for the individual hearing (the trial), where the applicant presents her claim for asylum through evidence and testimony. Neither process is fast, and it is common for an asylum case to take several years.
A credible fear interview is more truncated. Most applicants have little or no evidence when they first arrive, and so their testimony becomes more important. If they demonstrate a “credible fear” of persecution in their home country, they are referred to an immigration judge to present a defensive asylum case. If they do not demonstrate a credible fear, they are usually quickly deported from the United States.
Preparing an asylum case—affirmative or defensive—can be challenging. The attorney needs to work with the client to write a detailed affidavit describing the asylum claim. This often involves discussing painful events from the client’s past. Obtaining evidence from other countries can also be difficult, as witnesses are overseas and may be reluctant to risk their safety by writing a letter or sending documents. In preparing a case, the attorney needs to resolve any inconsistencies between the affidavit, evidence, and country conditions, since inconsistencies can lead to a finding that the applicant is “not credible.” Also, the attorney must articulate a legal theory for the case; not everyone who fears harm in the home country is eligible for asylum, and so the attorney must examine the facts and determine the basis for eligibility. Finally, some applicants may be barred from asylum—for example, because they failed to timely file their application—and so the attorney must identify and address any legal bars to asylum.
How Pro Bono Lawyers Can Help
All this can be daunting, even for a lawyer who specializes in asylum. So, how can a pro bono attorney—who may not be familiar with this area of the law—help?
On this front, the news is good. Most asylum cases are relatively straightforward, and anyone with legal training and a bit of guidance can make a positive difference in the outcome. Also, excellent support and mentoring is available for lawyers who decide to take on a case pro bono. In representing asylum seekers, most pro bono lawyers work with a nonprofit organization, and these organizations are expert at identifying compelling cases and providing support to attorneys who do not specialize in asylum. (For some ideas about where to volunteer, check out these immigration nonprofits). Finally, while asylum cases can take years (due to government delay), the amount of attorney time needed to properly prepare and litigate a case is quite reasonable. Total prep time for a case is usually between 15 and 30 hours. For an affirmative case, applicants have only one interview, and those usually take three to five hours. Court cases usually involve two hearings: The master calendar hearing might involve waiting around for an hour or two, but the hearing itself requires only about five minutes with the immigration judge. The individual hearing (the trial) typically takes two to four hours. So, all together, the time investment is not terribly burdensome.
As for credible fear interviews, because they are not full cases and because they take place within a day or two of the applicant’s arrival in the United States, they require even less attorney time. In some cases, there is no time to prepare in advance, and the attorney’s role is simply to make sure that the asylum seeker’s interview is fair. Other times, it is possible to gather country condition evidence or other evidence in advance of the interview.
What’s It Like to Do an Asylum Case?
Having myself represented hundreds of asylum seekers, what keeps me interested are the clients’ stories. Of course, many of these stories are sad, but they are also hopeful. Asylum seekers are survivors. They have escaped danger in order to build a better life. Many asylum seekers are well-educated, successful people: politicians; activists for democracy, women’s rights, or LGBTQ rights; interpreters who’ve served with the U.S. military; members of religious or ethnic minorities; journalists. Asylum seekers I have known tend to be very patriotic towards the United States, and my clients’ faith in the American Dream is a source of constant inspiration for me.
The asylum process today is more difficult than ever. Many applicants with valid claims will be denied and deported unless they have help from an attorney. Equally important, applicants need someone in their corner to answer questions and provide moral support. Representing an asylum seeker pro bono can help change your client’s life. It can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your legal career.
This article is by Jason Dzubow and was originally published in GPS Solo, Volume 9, Number 12, July 2020. Copyright 2020 by the American Bar Association. Reproduced with permission. All rights reserved. This information or any portion thereof may not be copied or disseminated in any form or by any means or stored in an electronic database or retrieval system without the express written consent of the American Bar Association or the copyright holder.
Greetings to everyone,
Am i the only one not receiving new articles from Jason, or this is the last one . I haven’t received any new article since this one was published so I’m wondering if I’m not just getting updates
The articles are posted on the blog, but I do not think they are sent out in any way – you have to check the website. Take care, Jason
Ok thank you Mr Jason. I will check on the website. But usually I would get a notification in my email. So I haven’t noticed that a while.
Hello Mr Jason
I have applied to renew my work permit when I check the tracking number it says delivered on 09/11/20 three times I have contacted to Uscis but they did t help but they said I have to send an email to lockboxsupport I have send email to them but I didn’t get any answer from them , would you please help me in this regards ? Should I send another application ? Please assist.
Thanks
I am not sure I understand your question – did you not receive the receipt for the EAD? Or did you not receive the card itself? One option is to call them: 800-375-5283. IT has become more difficult to reach a person, but if you can do that, they can sometimes assist. Take care, Jason
Yes I didn’t received the receipt for EAD and 4 times I called to the mentioned number but they didn’t assist unless they told me to send email to lockboxsupprt and I sent email but they didn’t reply , so now my lawyer says that he will send another application , so what do you suggest ?
Thanks
If it has been 2+ months, maybe the best bet is to file again with a cover letter explaining what happened. Hopefully that will do it. USCIS is a real mess, and maybe they just screwed this one up. Take care, Jason
Thank you Jason. I will.
Hi Jason
Thank you for your time and effort to help asylum seekers. I would like to discuss with you my asylum case and want the evaluation of my case from you. How can I make a schedule with you?
You can email me to set up a time: JDzubow@DzubowLaw.com. It would have to be next week, as this week is busy. Thank you, Jason
Hi Jason
Good Afternoon! Can I please ask some questions?
Could I know people whose status is the withholding of removal can re-apply for a green card through employment-based or marriage?
Could I also know if people can apply the asylum application and employment-based green card application at the same time?
Thank you in advance for your time.
Nayzaw
It depends on the case. If you entered legally and do not have criminal convictions, you are probably eligible to reopen your court case and get your green card based on marriage to a US citizen. In some cases, you may be able to do that based on a job, but it is uncommon (possible under a law called INA 245(i)). There are some exceptions to these rules, and so the only way to know for sure is to have a lawyer evaluate your case. However, be careful, as most people who have Withholding of Removal would not be eligible to get a GC except maybe through marriage to a US citizen. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason,
Thank you for your response. It is not a very straightforward thing. Thank you for the advice to discuss specifically with a lawyer. I am planning to do so. Could I please know why the case is needed to reopen to get a marriage-based green card?
Best,
Nayzaw
If you have Withholding of Removal, you have been ordered deported, but your deportation has been “withheld” as to the country where you fear persecution. You need to reopen your case and have the judge terminate the deportation order so that you will be eligible to get your GC based on marriage. However, before you start that process, you need to make sure you are eligible to get a GC based on marriage – meaning you entered the US legally and you have no disqualifying criminal convictions, or any other issues that blocks you. Talk to the lawyer about this to see the best path for the case. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason,
Thank you for your kind support and assistance.
I did my interview 2 years ago under the Chicago asylum office, and still, I didn’t get any decision. I inquired multiple times by congressman, senator, and ombudsman but didn’t get any response besides they are still working on.
A few days ago I got an email from USCIS/DHS regarding my case status (I subscribed for email notification for my case) as shown below.
*****************************************************************
There has been a recent processing action taken on your case.
Receipt Number: ZAR***********
Application Type: I589, APPLICATION FOR ASYLUM
Your Case Status: Initial Review
Your application with USCIS is still pending.
During this step, USCIS initiates the background checks of the applicant/petitioner and identifies issues that may need to be addressed either during an interview or by asking the applicant/petitioner to submit additional information or documentation. USCIS reviews the applicant’s/petitioner’s criminal history, determines if there are national security concerns that need to be addressed, and reviews the application/petition for fraud indicators…[continues]
*****************************************************************
Shall we say anything regarding this email? Have you or someone for the group has got such an email?
Thank you!
It sounds like a standard email to me. Why they sent it now, I do not know. You may want to email the asylum office about it – you can find their email if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Also, given all your efforts, you might consider a mandamus lawsuit to try to force USCIS to issue a decision. We wrote about that on October 2, 2018. Take care, Jason
Hi Denji
Thank you for the post on the blog. Would you mind if I may ask how to subscribe to an email for the case status? I would like to do for my case too. It will be a great help.
Thank you for your time
Nayzaw
You can sign up for a USCIS account here: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/disclaimer.do. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason,
Thank you so much for your information and kindness.
Hi Denji
Hope everything is well with you. I noticed that you received the help of a senator and congressman in your case. Could you please let me know how you get their help? Did you need to write a letter to a certain office?
Thank you in advance for your time.
On the right side of the page is a link to the Senate and House of Representatives. There, you can find your representative and contacting their office. They should have someone who helps with immigration cases. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason
Thanks so much as always for being there for us.
I have a question please…
1. if some reason we have a pending asylum and need to renew our pasports is this possible.
2. Before the work authorisation is renewed there will be a time period where we will be having a gap of 3 or 6 months where the passport will be renewed first before we renew work permits its because we need to travel to our home country. ( where we applied asylum for) Is this right ?
3. Are they going to stop the renewal of our work authorisation if they see we have renewed and kept our passports ? we will be traveling to our home country as it is an emergency.
4. Also if we do not renew our work authorisation and just take our passports back with us the home country while the asylum is pending will it be an issue at the airport?
5. Are they going to ask us for a valid status before travelling out of the country.
Its like work authorisation will expire in December and we need to travel in March …
6. Do you advice renewing work permits ? it takes long to renew work permits …so in our case we will be having that receipt in hand while we travel and so we are not sure if we will be coming back due to the emergency back home …. what is the best possible advice you can give us .
7. Is there going to be a 10 year ban once we exit the country.
we are still waiting for our interview for the past 5 years and this time my mother in law is sick we need to go see her both her kidneys have failed. It is serious. I do not have another choice nor can we apply for green card any other way.
8. I have a baby who was born here and we need to apply for her passport as well before we travel. Is this going to be an issue ?
Many Many Many thanks ! Jason
1 – Yes, but if you fear your home government, you may need to explain to the asylum officer why your government renewed the passport for someone it is seeking to persecute. 2 – I do not understand the question. The EAD renewal is not related to your passport. Also, travel to the home country would likely cause your asylum to be denied. 3 – The EAD renewal would not be affected, but the asylum case could easily be denied if you return home. At the minimum, you will need to explain, with evidence, why you returned home and how you stayed safe. However, even if you do that, the chances of being denied are very great. 4 – No. 5 – You can always leave; I have not heard about anyone having a problem trying to leave. If you have a pending asylum case, maybe carry a copy of those documents with you to the airport – this will show that you were lawfully in the US while the asylum was pending. 6 – If you want a work permit, you should renew it. I guess it depends on whether you plan to return here after your travel. 7 – Whether you will have a bar to returning depends on the case – talk to a lawyer about that. I also did a post on August 28, 2018 and/or September 6, 2018 where I discuss the concept of “unlawful presence”. If you understand this concept, it may help you understand whether or not you are barred from returning. Also, if you can get it (maybe on an emergency basis), you can return based on Advance Parole – I wrote about that on September 11, 2017. 8 – No, but I think there are some delays in getting US passports, so I do not know how long it will take. Take care, Jason
Dear Jason,
Thank you again for your blog.
I have a tricky question and I was hoping you could answer it.
I entered the US in August 2013 under a J1 Student visa. My visa expired in on June 06 2014 however my DS-2019 was extended to June 2015.
Fearing to go back to my home country, I applied for asylum and my receipt was received in August 2015.
It’s now been 5 years since I applied and no hope.
I eventually got married last year to my boyfriend and applied for the Green Card.
Today, I received my new work authorization along with my advance parole.
My question is, Is it safe to travel outside the US (my home country excluded) now that I have an advance parole document?
Thank you,
Loth
As long as the AP is valid, you should be fine. Several years ago, there was an issue for people with AP and “unlawful presence” (being inside the US without any status). However, that rule is gone, and even if it were still here, it would not affect you, since it seems you only have about 2 months of unlawful presence (June – August 2015). In short, as long as you return while the AP is valid, you should be fine (assuming no criminal or national security issues). Take care, Jason
Thank you very much Jason.
This is quite a relief. I am been reading very different information online but as always I knew that you would have a more accurate answer.
Best,
Loth
Hi Jason,
I don’t remember if I read anything like this but my case status has changed to “applications is pending” from “decision is pending” yesterday.
I am with the Chicago office. Applied in 2016 had my interview March 2019 and was waiting for the decision. Requested several inquiries after 6 months with the senator but keep getting the same response 3 times. That template that says we are working on it. But this last update was interesting as if we just applied.
Any idea or any meaning?
I do not understand the difference between those two messages, and it seems USCIS sends them to many people. I personally do not have a lot of trust in their on-line messages in general, and I think that has no meaning, but I really do not know. You can directly email the asylum office to inquire, if you have not tried that. You can find their email if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason,
I did my interview since Sept 2013, now the status shows something weird “Application is Pending” plus they changed 150 days to apply for EAD to 365 days!!!
It is first time I see a case status message like this
I am not sure that has any meaning for your case. They are changing the wait time to 365 days for everyone (I posted about this a few days ago). You can always email your local office and inquire, as you have been waiting a very long time – you can find their email if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
Hi Ray, may I ask if you are from a Muslim-banned country? Do you believe if you are stuck in the security background check?
I got same thing after 8 month passed my interview in SF office, I am wondering what is the message of this change? Is this sowing a progress in the case?
Ask,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason. Hope you’re well. I have a question. Is it safe to leave US for a month for travel purpose with Travel Document while my I485 case is pending and return back with no issues? Thank you for your time. Stay well.
As long as the travel document is valid, you should be able to return. The pending I-485 has no effect (of course, make sure to attend any appointments for the I-485). Take care, Jason
Hello Jason. Hope you are well and safe. I applied for asylum in 2017 and hadn’t had an interview yet. Is it possible to ask for sponsorship of H1B or EB3 in my case? I work at a company which provides a sponsorship but want to make sure that I am eligible before asking my employer. Thank you.
It is possible, but you probably need to leave the US to get a green card or an H1b visa, and this may or may not be possible. I did a post about this on August 28, 2018, which may help, but talk to a lawyer to be sure, and make sure the lawyer explains, step by step (and hopefully in writing), how you will get from where you are today to having a GC or an H1b. Take care, Jason
Asylee,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason,
Do you know if it’s possible for those with pending asylum to buy a house or get a mortgage. It seems like we are going to wait for some and I would hope to at least have our money go a long way whilst we wait. Worst case scenario our asylum is approved and we already own a home. Thank you for all the help that you give to us asylum seekers and I hope you and your family are okay
Not all banks will give a mortgage to asylum seekers, but some will, and I have had a number of clients who bought homes. If one bank won’t give you a loan, maybe another one will. Take care, Jason
TATAH,
I’m asylum seeker since 4.5 years. So far twice bought house with mortgage. Sold one, bought another. Just make sure your EAD is valid long enough, better to be more than a year. Have your tax documents.
Thank you. I will try to do that as so as I renew my EAD
If you don’t mind me asking Jawid, which of the banks financed your mortgage?
You don’t have to answer if you don’t feel comfortable.
Regards!
I used these banks/financial institutions to get a mortgage – The mortgage firm (in Tampa FL), Movement Mortgage (in St Petersburg FL). I also got couple quotes from Mr. Cooper (it’s true lol) and quicken loans. For best and cheapest mortgage, try to get it from United Wholesale Mortgage. They give mortgages only via broker and saves you money on fees and gives best interest rates.
Hi Tina,
First was with Sierra Pacific Mortgage and second was with NVR mortgage. NVR finances only new construction (I think so). My second house is a new construction. Buying and selling house keeps a person busy for a while and forgets about having a pending case 🙂
By the way I’m creating the petition today, I see no other suggestions. I hope we will get enough signs.
Best.
Jawid
Thanks for responding.
My understanding was that we should send out request to different entities individually.
Thanks for all the efforts.
Tina,
We will still send individually to entities too. I have send to 10 senators, 2 congress members, some NGOs.
So, yes, we still have to send it out to entities and individuals.
Thanks.
Tatah,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Jason, quick question- what if an Asylee/LPR applies for and receives an I-327 (the Re-entry Permit) instead of the I-571 (Refugee Travel Document or “RTD”), but the LPR doesn’t intend to travel out of the U.S. frequently, nor stay out of the U.S. for an extended period of time? Aside from the ability to leave the U.S. frequently and for a period greater than 1 year without jeopardizing the LPR status, would you say there are any other advantages to having a Re-entry Permit over the RTD? Could there be consequence(s) for using the I-327 if you do not intend to stay out of the U.S. for an extended period of time, or travel outside of the country frequently?
The Re-entry Permit is not intended to be used in lieu of a passport, even though it looks like a passport; the RTD is intended for that purpose. Personally, given how rotten the US government is now, I think it is better to use the RTD, which is what they want you to use. The advantage of the Re-entry Permit is that it can be issued for 2 years (if you have had the GC for 2 years and not left the US for an extended period, if memory serves – the instructions explain whether it will be issued for one or two years). In terms of returning to the US, the RE allows that, and my guess is that in practical terms, there will be no difference. However, just because everything is a mess and so unpredictable, I will continue to recommend that my asylee clients use the RTD and not the RE. Take care, Jason
Jason, thank you for your views on this.
hello Jason,
Did you get to read about the passed house bill to eliminate the need for furloughs for USCIS workers?
Does this bill need to pass the senate too? Also, do you think it should help with the processing for applications at USCIS. Approved asylum with pending GC here.
Thank you
The bill needs to pass the Senate, which I believe is currently not in session. I doubt the bill would pass the Senate in its current form anyway, but it looks to me like not much is happening and the furloughs are probably coming. We shall see. Take care, Jason
Pink,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hello, Jason I received this email August 8 ,2020
Do you have any idea what it means ?!
There has been a recent processing action taken on your case.
Receipt Number: ZCH
Application Type: I589, APPLICATION FOR ASYLUM
Your Case Status: Testing and Interview
I don’t have much faith in these types of emails, but it may mean that the case will be scheduled for an interview soon. Just in case, you should make sure you have all the evidence needed and are ready to go. Take care, Jason
I had my interview January 2018 and no decision yet
Es,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Yesterday the house passed an emergency bill to address USCIS furloughs. The bill establishes premium processing for a number of petitions. It also allows the USCIS to establish premium processing for any other type of petitions they want. I really hope that USCIS will establish premium processing for Asylum applications. This way the frustrated asylum seekers can give their money to the government and both sides win, as opposed to spending their money suing the government, which means the government will have to spend money fighting the lawsuit , a lose-lose outcome.
Hi,
How can the USCIS make premium for asylum seekers with pending cases when the asylum seekers don’t ask for it? how can the House push them to do premium for asylum seekers if asylum seekers don’t reach out to the House?
We are praying someone else should should voice on our behalf!
Thanks.
JJ,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason,
Currently my asylum case is pending interview in LA Asylum office (I am a male christian Asylee from Pakistan with a religious Asylum case). I am considering applying for a high skilled job in Massachusetts which is covered by Newark Asylum office. I have heard that Newark asylum office has a very low approval rate and is not good so I am doubtful whether I should apply for this job opportunity or not as my case will be transferred from LA to Newark if I move to Massachusetts for this new job opportunity. Can you kindly share your experience and thoughts about the Newark Asylum office. This will help alleviate some of my doubts and fears. Feedback/experience/thoughts from other members here will be greatly appreciated as well. I have a strong Asylum case with strong evidence.
Mark,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason,
Currently my asylum case is pending interview in LA Asylum office (I am a male christian Asylee from Pakistan with a religious Asylum case). I am considering applying for a high skilled job in Massachusetts which is covered by Newark Asylum office. I have heard that Newark asylum office has a very low approval rate and is not good so I am doubtful whether I should apply for this job opportunity or not as my case will be transferred from LA to Newark if I move to Massachusetts for this new job opportunity. Can you kindly share your experience and thoughts about the Newark Asylum office. This will help alleviate some of my doubts and fears. Feedback/experience/thoughts from other members here will be greatly appreciated as well. I have a strong Asylum case with strong evidence.
Massachusetts is now covered by the office in Boston. I did a post about grant rates at the different offices on February 5, 2020. I don’t have a lot of experience with the Boston office. My sense is that it is pretty good. I’ve done more cases in the Newark office and have generally felt they were good, though they are not always as consistent in their decision-making as one might hope. Take care, Jason
Dear Jason,please write something about INDIVIDUAL Hearing.
I wrote something about the entire court process on March 7, 2018. Maybe that will help. Take care, Jason
Hanif,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason,
Form DS-260 asks the following questions:
1) Is this child immigrating to the U.S. with you? Yes ☐ No ☐
2) Is this child immigrating to the U.S. at a later date to join you? Yes ☐ No ☐
I am a US citizen filling out the online immigrant visa and Alien Registration Application (DS-260), for my mom. I have a brother who is 20 years old and i would like him to immigrate with my mom at the same time. Should i tick the first question Yes and the next question NO? Please explain.
Thank you for your help.
I do not think he would be eligible to immigrate with your mother, unless he has some other way to come here. You can file for him (as your brother), but that takes about 14 years. Maybe there is some other way for him to come here, but that would depend on the case (like F-1 student, for example). Take care, Jason
Jamal,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason,
Form DS-260 asks the following questions:
1) Is this child immigrating to the U.S. with you? Yes ☐ No ☐
2) Is this child immigrating to the U.S. at a later date to join you? Yes ☐ No ☐
I am a US citizen filling out the online immigrant visa and Alien Registration Application (DS-260), for my mom. I have a brother who is 20 years old and i would like him to immigrate with my mom at the same time. Should i tick yes to both questions? Please advise.
Thank you for your help.
I do not think he would be eligible to immigrate with your mother, unless he has some other way to come here. You can file for him (as your brother), but that takes about 14 years. Maybe there is some other way for him to come here, but that would depend on the case (like F-1 student, for example). Take care, Jason
Congress passed a bill to stop the USCIS furlough at about 9pm.
Let’s see what happens with the Senate.
Whatever!
I thought the Senate is not in session until the end of August…
Oh , really? I didn’t know that.
Tina, I saw the message you sent me; I haven’t been on the blog a lot as of lately. Have been extremely busy.
Thanks!
Hi Jason,
I am about to apply for green card based on asylum. I have been arrested before during protests in my home country. However, I do not have any arrest records, as the police did not provide me with one. It’s very common for people to be arrested in my country without the police providing any evidence. What do I need to do in this situation? Have you ever had cases like mine? I was granted asylum without the officer asking for any police arrest evidence. I did not use a lawyer during my asylum process and was granted by the Chicago office.
Thanks a lot.
You should answer the question on the form as best as you can, but I circle the answer and write “See cover letter.” In the cover letter, I explain that the person was arrested at a political event. Also, if you told the asylum officer about the arrests, you can mention that in the cover letter as well. In this way, USCIS cannot accuse you of trying to cover up the arrests. You would have to do the same thing when you apply for citizenship one day. Take care, Jason
And u think they gonna know , that u were arrested?!!, stop asking and forgot about it, now u are asylee, and in green card interview they only ask if does the fear ended in ur home country? So definitely u say I can’t go back , and that’s it ,
Dear Jason
Im abit wonder
After many attempts thru Congress n senator n ombudsman after a year of wait for my decision my lawyers sent an email to USCIS kinda tell them that we are planning for mandamus and still USCIS response with generic that “ my application is pending a finale decision “
I have a concern im student and one more year i need to go to finish my master program if i filled a mandamus if USCIS grant that would be good what if they deny and my work permit stopped i cant finish my school … what is the possible scenario if they reject can i still work and appeal or if they refer it to court how is the long wait??
Can you please explain the possible outcome of mandamus? I would really appreciate it
is that Newark Asylum Office? I believe they are no bothered to read the content of out letters. After waiting more than 2.5 years for decision, I sent and expedite request with a strong material support, then provided additional material weeks after with follow up letter and mailed two more letter to enquire about the expedite request (not the case), I was expecting they will reply my with some warnings to stop me from sending repeated requests in a short period of time. I continued mailing a request every 2 weeks and they finally replied, but with printed form with a checked checkbox indicating my case is still under review. I felt insulted! I felt they are just telling me that We don’t care about what happens to you and we are not interested in reading you letters, so sit back and don’t bother writing to us. if you write again, we will still dump that into trash can.
Dear Allen
I have the same experience they intentionally torture you i have been to emergency and because this fucken lenghty process I started taking depression medication and see how it affected us mentally- than im tired of writing- its been a year waiting for my decision- and if one day i killed my self due to stress I will never forgive USCIS
Most of us are on anti-depressants, and sleep pills. You are not alone ELLI.
This can be a basis to expedite – if you have a doctor’s not and evidence of the mental health problem, it sometimes works to expedite (it may not work, but it may be worth a try). I wrote about expediting on March 30, 2017. Because asylum offices are not operating at full capacity, now may not be the best time to try to expedite, and so maybe you want to wait a bit to see whether things improve. On the other hand, you can try now, and if it does not work, try again later. Take care, Jason
Maybe you want to consider a mandamus lawsuit – we wrote about that on October 2, 2018. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason, Since they are ignoring my expedite request, instead of sitting back, I am planning to send Expedite request every month, because nearly every months, more terrible news are coming to from my hometown related to my case and being published in major news outlets. What do you think if I continue to bug them with new expedite request since I have so much material support ? Even, US congress passed a bill about our situation and asked US gov to protect asylum seekers from my region. Yet USCIS is not doing anything about that. I am planning to file Mandamus after they resolved financial issue and Covid is over. I fear this could be a reason for them to deny the case now.
I do not think they will deny the case because you are inquiring too often. However, I do not know that it will help either. Also, I do not know that you need to wait for COVID to be over before you file a mandamus. It may never be over for all we know. If nothing is working, that may be worth a try. Take care, Jason
If they deny the case and you are no longer in status, they will refer you to court, but you can continue to renew your work permit in court (and if you lose the case and appeal to the BIA). Given that court cases usually take several years, you should have time to finish your degree, even if you are referred to court. Take care, Jason
Elli,
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi Jason, Hope you are doing well.
USCIS processing time dates on the website keeps changing and instead of moving forward it’s going backward. I-131 Nebraska Service was March 21 2020 – 2 days ago. today February 24 2020. Which is till outside normal processing time. Bc I applied February 13- still no answer. Next will with furlough will be even worse?
We’ll see if the furlough happens (it looks increasingly likely). If so, I imagine it will not be good for processing times. Take care, Jason
hi i received an interview letter from the New Orleans asylum office on the 12th this month.On the 18th, the office staff called to investigate whether I actually lived there. Then I suspected that I did not live there and cancelled the interview verbally. I have not received the cancellation interview letter yet. Do I still need to go to the interview office?
I would email them to try to get written corroboration of the cancellation – you can find their email if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. That office is usually pretty responsive to emails. Take care, Jason
Hello to everyone
I applied for asylum in California in January 2020. Today I got my Work Permit and today I receive a letter from USCIS,I was scheduled for the interview in September.
I am very surprised, because I read a lot about the long waits for interviews.
To all of you who are waiting for an interview, I wish you to be called soon
😊
Is it Los Angeles Asylum office? I have been waiting for an interview call for 4 years and 8 months since applying in FEB 2016 in LA Asylum office… I am glad that your interview call came early….This is good for you….waiting year after year just for the interview will drive you mental, crazy, depressed and traumatized…………I wish they would schedule people like me who have been waiting for so many years……Glad for you…..
It is a little odd, as they are seemingly scheduling interviews at random. In our local office, they are scheduling people who have a one-year bar issue, so if you filed for asylum after one year in the US, you should be prepared to show that you meet an exception to that rule. Otherwise, I do not know why they scheduled someone who filed in January 2020. Take care, Jason
Leylam,
Please help fellow immigrants.
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Sorry Mr Jason. Corrected.
No worries. I sometimes feel like an old woman…
😊
😂
Thank you so much. i will do that. Have a great day Ms Jason.
Dear Jason,
I have a pending asylum but got GC through a different status. I wanted to ask what should I do with my pending asylum case? I appreciate if i have an answer from you here.
Thank you.
You can withdraw the asylum. Contact your local asylum office by email and they should provide instructions about what to do. You can find their email if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
hello Jason
today we sent an i730 petition to expedite requests throw congresswomen due to severe health conditions. with dr letter, we live in California and service center in Nebraska . is there a good chance for request to approve?
They do sometimes expedite I-730 forms, so hopefully that will help. I did a post about I-730 forms in December 2019, and there is a link to a helpful manual that has some discussion about expediting. Take care, Jason
hi Jason
thank you so much for the previous reply
1. any estimated time frame for the reply. when we expedite petition i730 through congresswoman?
2. whats would be the next step if they accept my expedite request. we both live in USA California?
3. uscis and CIS IS different offices? my lawyer said most i730 petition process by CIS OFFICE
1 – Unfortunately not. 2 – Presumably, they would process the case and then send it to the embassy to finish processing and schedule interviews for your family members. 3 – CIS is just a different way of writing USCIS – it is the same. Take care, Jason
Hey Jason,
I was filling my , I was in the US as a student and I recently got married I was filling my papers and wanted to know if I have to send form i944 it and my credit report with it, i read that i have too amd i dont have a credit report since am new to the US am a confused
There is a lawsuit trying to block form I-944, but it is still pending, and so depending on where you live in the US, you do not have to file the I-944, but most people do. You will have to check the USCIS website to know (or talk to a lawyer, as this is a constantly changing situation). If you are required to file the I-944, you would need a credit report (or evidence that there is no credit report) plus all the other evidence list in the I-944 instructions, available at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason
The asylum process has really changed much,and the asylum offices together Trump administration started to treat asylum seekers with cruility.The decision delay is most likely a punishment for the asylum seeker incredibility,aging him gradually and returning him home liveless,ready for death.
So guys , It is expected that Almost all asylum applicants be referred to the court.So,be ready for hearings from now
The delays began well before the Trump Administration, but I do agree that this Administration has been very hostile to asylum seekers. However, their main targets are people fleeing gang violence and domestic violence. Asylum seekers who fear harm due to political opinion, religion or ethnicity still have a decent chance to win their cases. Take care, Jason
Tab,
Please help fellow immigrants.
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
I applied in July 2015, 5 years ago in Arlington office , tried to expedite 2 times with no luck, still no interview. Is anyone here has been waiting for so long? Jason, do you happen to know if there is any progress in Arlington office towards 2015?
Hay Alena, waiting since 2014… same office. Best of luck.
Hi guys, I have applied 2015 November from Airlington. Then I moved to NJ and my case moved to Newark office- I expedited from Newark office 3 times. Granted February 2020. I don’t know with Corona now but they are usually faster . Good luck! May God help you . Don’t give up guys!
Wow!! Can I ask which month you applied in 2014?
Hi Alena, it was October 2014. thanks
Hey Alena,
We are on the same boat… I applied in July 2015 and tried to expedite with no luck 🙁
Ugh! We are doomed – I feel hopeless
Alena,
I applied April 2016. Still no interview. Have you read my earlier comment on August 17. I and Tina are making an effort to write a petition which can be signed by people like you and me who have pending case for many years. If you have read those comments, you don’t need to read beyond this line. If not below is the draft text for a petition we want to send to different places and ppl. Please share you ideas and participate in disseminating it.
There are over 1 million cases pending in (immigration) court. Many of them are asylum seekers. In addition, there are over 350,000 cases pending at the asylum offices.
Majority of pending cases both in the immigration court and asylum offices are pending for more than 3 years. Most of the asylum seekers with pending cases have their families left behind in their original country facing danger. The asylum seekers with years of pending cases go through stress, depression, anxiety and anger issue. Also due to their pending cases, they are missing on educational opportunities, financial opportunities, and career opportunities, right to vote a tricky issue but very important, scared to use free speech because of repercussions.
I have a pending case for almost 4.5 years now. When I applied for asylum in April 2016, I was told there is a waiting list for asylum seeker interview and you will probably get your interview in 2-3 years. So I joined the waiting list. But, just as I started seeing light at the end of the interview waiting list tunnel, USCIS changed the interview scheduling rules.
On 01/31/2018, “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that the agency will schedule asylum interviews for recent applications ahead of older filings, in an attempt to stem the growth of the agency’s asylum backlog.” “This priority approach, first established by the asylum reforms of 1995 and used for 20 years until 2014, seeks to deter those who might try to use the existing backlog as a means to obtain employment authorization. Returning to a “last in, first out” (LIFO) interview schedule will allow USCIS to identify frivolous, fraudulent or otherwise non-meritorious asylum claims earlier and place those individuals into removal proceedings.”
With LIFO, my life was further affected. I cannot put in words the emotional and mental suffering it has caused me and I go through. I can say this much that my incisor teeth are badly damaged because of the constant pressure I put at them as a result of the stress I suffer because of a pending case. Well, I know about teeth guard. I can give few examples of how the LIFO and the extended backlog has affected me in materialistic was. Mine is just an example, there are hundreds of thousands others like me who have their own stories and how LIFO has hit them hard.
I was approved for admission at Virginia Commonwealth University for a Post-graduate Certificate, but I had to pay “out of state” fee because I have a pending asylum case. Even though I have been paying State taxes for last 3 years, my car is registered in Virginia and since January 2016 I have lived in Virginia. I did not pursue the course. I can speak, write and read 4 languages, and only speak a fifth language, but I cannot utilize this skill because mostly jobs with extensive language requirements, also require “security clearance”, security clearance require a minimum of “Permanent Residency”, I cannot get clearance because I have a pending asylum case since 4.5 years. I want to meet my parents in a third country, I cannot not easily do it, because I have a pending asylum case since 4.5 years. I don’t contribute “extra contribution” towards my retirement which is met by my employer, because I have a pending asylum case since 4.5 years and I’m not sure whether I will ever benefit from retirement. These are few examples of how a pending case can affect a person’s life.
Since January 31, 2018, thousands of asylum cases have been processed and thousands of cases have been approved as well. I am happy for those who had a genuine case and have been granted asylum. But is this ethically right that one waits years in limbo and another gets approved in a month? If for not the personal pain and emotional suffering asylum seekers go through after getting stuck in the backlog, just take paying taxes into consideration. Those stuck in the asylum backlog for years, have been paying Federal and State taxes for longer time than a person who applies today and gets an approval in a month or two.
Let’s have a look at two case timelines under “Last in, First out” interview scheduling policy.
Case 1:
Applied for affirmative asylum: April 2016
Interview: Waiting for interview for almost 4.5 years
Case Status: Pending asylum
Case 2.
Applied for affirmative asylum: April 2019
Interviewed: June 2019
Case Status: Approved July 2019
Applied for Green Card: July 2020.
Is this justice with people like me who have been paying taxes for years, taxes which in part fund Department of Homeland Security and other Federal and State agencies which will be processing documents for a person who has not paid a single penny in taxes but already benefits from taxes paid by those stuck in backlog for years?!
Let’s say a person who pays Federal tax, Medicare tax, Social Security tax and State tax for years, and gets rejected after years of waiting (not because the case was not genuine but e.g. country situation changed or USCIS changed eligible categories…), will it be fair and legally right to take their money for “social security” which they won’t benefit from or spend his/her money on others?
I have no expertise to answer whether it is legal or not, but I think it is not ethically right to ask person A to pay taxes and wait in a limbo for years. On the other hand spend the same taxes Person A has paid on person B who has not paid a penny in taxes, has been in USA for less than a month, gets an approval, and enjoys all the benefits tax paying Person A cannot because of a pending asylum case for years!
What can USCIS do to address older cases in backlog?
1- Re-instate “First in, First Out”.
2- USCIS should divide its resources between oldest cases and newest cases. So both old and new case can be processed and fraudulent applicants don’t misuse asylum system.
3- Issue combo cards, EAD+ Travel documents for those with more than 5 years of pending case, so at least they can visit family members in a third county easily.
4- Add premium paying option: Some may be ready to pay a premium for their case to be processed like there is premium for processing some visa types. There can be criteria for paying premium e.g. minimum 3 years of pending case. There can different categories of premium say a 5 year old pending case should pay $1000, a 4 year old pending case should pay $1500, and a 3 year old pending case should pay $2000 to get a premium processing.
It would be fair if people who have been waiting for an interview and a subsequent positive decision for more than five years could immediately apply for citizenship. I have been waiting for an interview for 5 years, since August 2015, New York.
You are totally right! I just missed a career opportunity due to the fact that I did not have Green Card. I am not able to pursue my education because I need to pay out of state tuition. I was rejected for mortgage for not having Green Card. I am welcome to pay 5000$ to get the interview. I wish I had never come to the U.S!
Jawid, I would like to sign this petition and also help and contribute. I have something to add
Hi Alena,
What do you want to add? Please share. I have been waiting on ideas so far. I plan to create the petition today.
Thanks.
Jawid,
Did you send to ACLU?
I will be sending some out tomorrow.
Tine,
I haven’t sent it to ACLU yet. But I did send to 7 senators. Tried sending to some other as well but they accepted “thought” from their constituents only. I wrote to the following so far. Please you also send it to them.
Tammy Baldwin, Cory Booker, Maria Canwell, Ben Cardin, Tom Carper, Chris Coons, Tammy Duckworth. They are Democrats. I’m sending it to Republican senators too. I also emailed to US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), below emails because they are involved with immigration laws
ming.h.chen@colorado.edu,
eagly@law.ucla.edu,
krjohnson@ucdavis.edu,
bhing@usfca.edu,
kit.johnson@ou.edu
also the following,
press@humanrightsfirst.org,
feedback@humanrightsfirst.org,
info@humanrightsfirst.org
also, jrose@npr.org
I hope everyone will also send to them.
Thanks
paul.caron@pepperdine.edu
Will do when I am off again this weekend.
Let others continue to send as time permits, please.
I would also like to sign this petition. waiting for 4 years and 8 months for interview at LA Asylum office since applying for asylum in Feb 2016…No interview scheduled yet….
Same office. Applied in January 2017. Still waiting interview.
Hey Alena,
I have been waiting longer than that and the worse of all this, I have been waiting for the decision for 4 years now. It is so frustrating. Let us all remain positive
The only old cases they seem to be doing are cases where there is a one-year bar issue. If things start moving, we still do not know whether they will interview backlog cases from oldest to newest or from newest to oldest. I do not know what other options there are aside from trying to expedite again or maybe trying a mandamus case, which is normally to expedite a case that has already been interviewed. Take care, Jason
Alena,
Please help fellow immigrants.
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
Hi,
I have receipt number starting with ZAR. ZAR16………. When I’m filing an e-request, it doesn’t accept it. Is it that the e-request is not for Asylum Seekers?
Thanks.
I am not sure what you mean by an e-request. You should be able to use the ZAR number to get your case status at http://www.uscis.gov, but if you need to communicate with the asylum office, you can find their email by following the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason, I submitted 12/2018 I730 petition for my family I did expedite request 08/2019 was denied then again I submitted expedite request 05/2020 no update even i spoke with tier2 officers twice first call 07/05/2020 tire2 officer said you will have update today or tomorrow but after waiting two weeks I called again they transfer my call to tier2 officer after detail conversation she said you will have decision next 6 days. Instead of sending decision they created new reference I’d and asked me to submit supporting documents again. I have submitted but no decision since july 2020. Would you please let me know What’s going on I have though situation back home and USCIS no response yet?
I don’t know, but at least there is some motion on the case. It seems to me that you are having some luck by calling, and so you might try that again, but unless USCIS tells you that you need more evidence, it seems to be that it is just a question of them processing the case. Maybe calling again can help. Take care, Jason
Hello Jason and everyone here
I have my interview coming up in the next week..I had an expedite request as my two minor kids are back at home
Lawyer is not very supportive and taking interest
Need a lot of prayers and good wishes from everyone out there… specially the moms as I haven’t seen my I da since 5 years
Thanks
Asylum seeker,
You will be in my prayers.
May God grant you favor.
Thanks
Don’t worry and good luck!
Thanks
Good luck at the interview. I did a post on September 8, 2016 about asylum interview and maybe that would be helpful. Take care, Jason
Sure will definitely go through it
Jason,
No week passes without bad news for us in the last couple of years. I am scaring to read new regulations that will affect us here. It’s been 4 years since I am waiting or my decision. Would you post an article designated for the completed cases where people share their timelines? I am sure hearing and reading good cases from the office we are working with would help us a little to continue our lives here. Just a little hope…
You know something like this
Chicago office; I applied asylum Oct 2016,
Requested expedited Dec 2017
Completed the interview March 2018
Waiting since then
Had several inquiries via congressman
Mine has not got the good news yet but I feel I will have some good news sooner than later..
People do post their time lines here now and again, and I do think that is helpful. However, most people who are granted don’t stick around here – they move on, and so I do not know that such an article would generate a lot of responses. In a case like yours (assuming that is your time line), you can contact the asylum office to inquire about your case. You can find their contact info if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
Here’s a forum that discusses GC timelines based on granted Asylum cases. Hope that helps.
https://www.immihelp.com/forum/adjustment-of-status-i-485/166196-asylum-based-i-485?view=stream
Jason – I’m an asylee and still do follow your posts.
Please help fellow immigrants.
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid
May I ask if you are from a Muslim-banned country?
Hello Jason,
I filed my I-485 Asylum based couple of months ago, after filing i realized that i had a small EAD gap ~ 2 weeks which was explicitly detailed based on the the employment history i declared in my application. but when it came to the question if i ever worked without EAD, my answer was no, do you think that would lead to an issue with my application ? and the gap happened in 2015 before the 180 days automatic extension went into effect.
appreciate your help.
I would say no, but then provide an explanation in the cover letter (or mail the explanation in, once you have the receipt number and keep a record of what you did). Assuming you are an asylee, the “gap” will not create any issues, but if USCIS thinks you are trying to cover it up, or lie about it, that could create issues. In truth, I doubt anyone would ever notice this, but I think the more cautious approach is to provide an explanation. That way, you cannot be accused of lying. Take care, Jason
Hi Jason;
I applied for Asylum in Dec 2019 and was interviewed in Chicago office in March 2020. My online case status was ” Decision is Pending” after my interview since today that I got notification that my case status is updated. Now that I check my status online it says “Application is Pending”. Based on your experience does this change mean anything special?
Hi EDVARDO,
If you remember we were discussing about the expiring form in late November 2019. Nice to hear you got the update about your case. My interview got canceled due to COVID and I am not even sure when it will be rescheduled again. Happy for you that at least your interview is done. Hopefully you will get good news in mail soon.
Thanks Jadon. Hi Waiting. Oh I am sorry to hear that Covid19 has cancelled your interview. I hope you get scheduled for your new interview soon. Thanks for your kind wishes for me.
Where to sign?
Did your online status change since last time ?
Did your online status change since last time . I just had the interview and I have the same message
Any news on your case ?
I do not know why there are two different messages like that, or whether there is a difference between them. If you have not yet done so, you might inquire about the status of your case by email. You can find the email for the asylum office if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason
Hello everyone,
I hope you are staying strong during these dark times. I had been in this country for four years and trust me I counted each day and night. There were days I would go to bed praying that I don’t wake up in morning. I would wake up in the morning with so much on my mind and I would drag myself through the day because I was the sole bread winner. My family suffered so much because of my ongoing depression and PTSD. There was a time I decided to lay on the train track and there was a time I decided to jump in the river but then I thought about my kids. I told myself that I will fight myself and win. I wanted my kids to grow up knowing how brave their parent is. I thought to set an example for my kids to never give up and keep pushing and trying. Always remember there is light after darkness, there is day after night, there is comfort after misery, and this too shall pass. After four years of pain and misery, I found a place, I can call home. I am a damaged person and this damage can’t be repaired but now I will have the stability to support my family the way they deserve. All these years have been so unfair for them. Sorry for the long story but here is my time-line;
Jun 2016 Applied for Asylum in LA Asylum Office
Jan 2018 Case moved to San Francisco Asylum Office
Mar 2019 Interviewed at Seattle office
Aug 2020 Got the approval
I made several inquiries between Mar 2019 to Aug 2020. I sent letters with doctors notes but no one responded. I finally contacted my Congressman in Dec 2019 to make inquiry on my behalf. I was told that there are unresolved issues and they don’t know how much time would it take. I didn’t give up and requested them to make another inquiry after 2 months. I was told that I would get my decision before end of June. I waited June and July and called the Asylum Office every other week. Everytime I heard the same thing that my case is waiting final approval. I finally got my decision in the mail today. I want to thank Jason and everyone on this forum who share their experiences and life stories. Sometimes it gave me hope and at times it made me cry. I didn’t read the blog for 6 months because I went in deep down depression. But I will keep reading the blog and one day after I finish my law degree, I will do something similar to give my Asylumist community back in some way. I wish you all the best and pray that God give you strength to stay strong and help to achieve your goals. Take care. Ray.
Thank you for this moving comment – survival is sometimes an act of great heroism. It should not be that way with asylum, but in many cases, it is. I suspect your children will be very proud. I did a post on May 16, 2018 about what happens when asylum is granted, if you are interested. Congratulations on your grant, and Welcome to the USA! Take care, Jason
Thank you for sharing your story. It is very moving and incredible. I can relate to all the things that you have went through. I have been waiting for 4 years and 7 months now for an interview at LA Asylum office. Thank you for bringing us hope that there is some relief and hope at the end of the tunnel and there is some light after all the darkness. BTW you are not alone in your depression. My situation is very much similar to you. The mental trauma and damage due to extreme delays in interviews and case adjudication is beyond measure and can not be repaired but hopefully from your story we can obtain some hope and optimism to keep going and not give up. I have been severely depressed for last 4 and a half years and I have been very close to giving up on life myself. It has been very difficult for me to wake up in the morning and go to work as well with all the trauma and depression. Your story brings me hope to not loose faith.
This is a huge problem for many people. I did a post about this on January 9, 2018 – maybe that would be of interest. Take care, Jason
CONGRATS, Ray!
I thought J wrote this in my dreams until I got to the part of your interview, and approval.
As our stories are so similar, I pray mine ends like yours.
Congrats, once again.
Ray,
Please help fellow immigrants.
Please Sign the below petition.
http://chng.it/T4ms2FXppC
Thanks a lot for your help!
Jawid