United States · Immigration54
Affirmative Asylum
People physically in the United States who fear persecution at home can apply for asylum with USCIS, generally within one year of arrival. A grant allows eventual application for a Green Card.
Currently available · Editorial record dated 10/22/2026 · Not lawyer review or an eligibility decision. Check current official instructions.
Who this is for
People in the U.S. who cannot return home because of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Common problems
The one-year deadline
Late filings need a changed- or extraordinary-circumstances exception, which is scrutinized closely.
Referral to court
If USCIS does not grant the case, it is typically referred to an immigration judge for a defensive process.