Can an Asylee Bring Parents to the United States?
In the United States, asylum seekers who have successfully obtained asylum status may wonder if they can bring their parents to the country. Asylee status is a form of protection granted to individuals who have a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The process of bringing parents to the United States can be complex and depends on several factors, including the asylee’s relationship with their parents and the specific circumstances of their case.
Eligibility for Derivative Asylum
One way an asylee can bring their parents to the United States is through derivative asylum. Derivative asylum is available to the spouse, child, or parent of an asylee if they would be subject to persecution in their home country based on the same grounds as the asylee. To qualify for derivative asylum, the asylee must demonstrate that their parent is a qualifying relative and that they are a qualifying family member.
Meeting the Requirements
To bring parents to the United States under derivative asylum, the asylee must meet certain requirements. First, the parent must be a qualifying relative, which means they must be the asylee’s spouse, child, or parent. Additionally, the asylee must prove that they have a qualifying relationship with their parent and that the parent would be subject to persecution in their home country based on the same grounds as the asylee.
Applying for Derivative Asylum
Once the asylee has established their eligibility for derivative asylum, they must file a Form I-730, Application for Refugee/Asylee Relative. This form must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with supporting documentation, such as proof of the asylee’s relationship with their parent and evidence of the parent’s potential persecution.
Processing Time and Challenges
The processing time for derivative asylum applications can vary, and it may take several years for a decision to be made. During this time, the asylee and their parents may face challenges, such as financial strain, language barriers, and the uncertainty of the application process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an asylee can bring their parents to the United States through derivative asylum if they meet the eligibility requirements. The process can be complex and may take a significant amount of time, but it is possible for asylees to reunite with their families in the United States. It is essential for asylees to seek legal advice and guidance throughout the application process to ensure that they have the best chance of success.
