Asylum & Refugee Protection in the United States
Legal Support for Those Fleeing Persecution and Seeking Safety
The United States offers protection to individuals who fear persecution in their home country through its asylum and refugee programs. These legal pathways allow qualified individuals to seek safety, rebuild their lives, and eventually obtain lawful permanent residence.
At Borderless Lawyers, we provide compassionate, expert legal support to asylees, refugees, and their families—guiding them through complex U.S. immigration procedures.
✅ What’s the Difference Between Asylum and Refugee Status?
| Refugee | Asylee |
|---|---|
| Applies from outside the U.S. | Applies inside the U.S. or at a port of entry |
| Must be referred by the UN or U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) | May apply affirmatively (USCIS) or defensively (in removal proceedings) |
| Must qualify before entering the U.S. | Must be physically present in the U.S. or at a border |
| Undergoes screening before entry | Applies after arrival |
🔍 Eligibility for Asylum or Refugee Protection
You may be eligible if you:
-
Have a well-founded fear of persecution based on:
-
Race
-
Religion
-
Nationality
-
Political opinion
-
Membership in a particular social group
-
-
Cannot or will not return to your country because of this fear
-
Are not barred due to criminal activity, previous asylum denial, or security concerns
📋 Application Process
🧾 Asylum (I-589)
-
Must apply within 1 year of arrival (unless exception applies)
-
File Form I-589 with USCIS
-
Attend biometric appointment and interview or court hearing
-
Receive decision from USCIS or immigration judge
🌍 Refugee Admission
-
Referral to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)
-
Interview by DHS officials abroad
-
Undergo background checks, medical exams, and security screening
-
Enter U.S. with refugee status and receive support services
💡 Rights and Benefits After Approval
-
Live and work in the U.S.
-
Apply for a green card after 1 year
-
Petition for family members (spouse and children under 21)
-
Access to limited public benefits (e.g. medical assistance, job training)
-
Apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence
🧾 How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
-
Evaluate eligibility and prepare a compelling application
-
Handle asylum filings (affirmative or defensive)
-
Prepare supporting evidence, affidavits, and country conditions reports
-
Represent clients in asylum interviews and immigration court
-
Assist refugees with adjustment of status and family reunification
🌐 Seeking Protection in the U.S.?
If you or someone you know is fleeing persecution, our experienced immigration lawyers can help you access safety and legal stability in the U.S.