Section 13: An Asylum Alternative for Diplomats

Diplomats who cannot return to their countries can claim asylum, like anyone else.  But an alternative form of relief is available: Section 13 of the Immigration and Nationality Act allows individuals who entered the United States under diplomatic status to obtain a green card.  To be eligible for residency under Section 13, you must demonstrate … Read more

Gay Saudi Diplomat Fears Return to His Country

Ali Ahmad Asseri, the first secretary of the Saudi consulate in Los Angeles, has applied for political asylum in the United States, claiming that Saudi officials have terminated his job after discovering that he was gay and was close friends with an Israeli Jewish woman.  MSNBC reports that on a Saudi website, Mr. Asseri recently criticized … Read more