How Long Does Political Asylum Last in the United States?
Political asylum is a legal process that allows individuals who have fled their home countries due to persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution to seek refuge in the United States. The duration of this process is a common concern for many asylum seekers. In this article, we will explore how long political asylum typically lasts in the United States.
Initial Application Process
The first step in seeking political asylum in the United States is to file an application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must be submitted within one year of the applicant’s arrival in the United States, unless there are compelling reasons for the delay. The initial application process can take anywhere from several months to over a year to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of USCIS.
Referral to an Asylum Office
Once the initial application is submitted, USCIS will review it and may refer the case to an Asylum Office for an interview. The interview is a crucial part of the process, where the applicant must provide evidence of their persecution or fear of persecution. The duration of the interview process can vary, but it typically takes several months from the date of the application.
Decision and Appeal
After the interview, the Asylum Officer will make a decision on the applicant’s case. If the applicant is granted asylum, they will receive a Notice of Grant of Asylum, which allows them to remain in the United States and apply for a work permit and travel document. If the applicant is denied, they have the right to appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).
The appeal process can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the BIA. If the BIA upholds the denial, the applicant may seek judicial review in federal court, which can further delay the process.
Duration of Asylum Status
Once an individual is granted political asylum, their status is typically valid for one year. After one year, the individual must apply for a grant of asylum in perpetuity, which is a permanent form of asylum. The application for a grant of asylum in perpetuity must be submitted within one year of the expiration of the initial grant of asylum.
The process for applying for a grant of asylum in perpetuity is similar to the initial application process, and it can take several months to complete. If the application is approved, the individual’s asylum status will be extended indefinitely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the duration of political asylum in the United States can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of USCIS and other immigration authorities. While the initial application process can take several months to over a year, the appeal process can take even longer. It is essential for asylum seekers to understand the process and be prepared for a potentially lengthy journey.
