Asylum Attorneys in New Bern

Nationwide Representation from Craven County

Asylum is a protection afforded to individuals who are fleeing abuse, persecution, or unsafe conditions in their home country. Asylum seekers will have to meet certain requirements to be eligible for asylum status.

At The E.A. Wood Law Firm, we represent individuals who have arrived at the U.S. specifically seeking asylum as well as those who have been found in the U.S. illegally but have a legitimate fear of returning to their native country. Asylum can be an effective deportation defense in these situations. Our asylum attorneys in New Bern can assist immigrants around the country.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you fear persecution or deportation. Reach out to us at (800) 611-0821 today.

Asylum Eligibility Requirements

Unfortunately, many people who have a legitimate reason to fear harm in their country do not qualify for protection under asylum.

To qualify for asylum status, you must prove that you fear persecution based on:

• Race
• Nationality
• Religion
• Political opinion
• Membership in a certain social group

Suffering harassment alone is not enough to qualify for asylum. You must be able to show that you fear serious harm or a threat to your life. If you have not actually suffered harm, you may still qualify for political asylum or refugee status.

Traveling with Asylum Status in the U.S.

If you have asylum status in the United States, you are able to travel abroad after receiving approval from the DHS through a refugee travel document. This travel document is valid for one year and serves as your passport for both leaving and returning to the United States.

Asylum vs. Refugee Status

One primary difference between seeking asylum and seeking refugee status is the location from where you make your request. Asylum seekers must be present at the U.S. border or already in the United States. Those seeking refugee status make their request from outside the U.S.

Obtain a Green Card After Asylum Approval

It's important to know that an asylum approval does not automatically grant you permanent resident status in the United States. Asylees are subject to certain restrictions when traveling outside the United States, and one's asylum status can be discontinued.

Asylees wishing to obtain permanent residency status and obtain a Green Card will need to wait at least one year after their asylum status is approved. They can then apply for an adjustment of status, which typically takes at least four months to be approved. Asylum applicants must meet the same requirements of any other green card applicant, and additionally must not have had their grant of asylum terminated.

Work with The E.A. Wood Law Firm

Our immigration attorneys in New Bern are passionate about helping and protecting people around the world who are unsafe in their current conditions. We strive to ensure that these people receive the protections they need and deserve. With our help, you can present a strong argument as to why you are eligible for asylum in the U.S.

Contact us online or call (800) 611-0821 to request an appointment with us today. We serve clients in Craven County and around the country.