Asylum (I-589) is given to refugees who have sought a better life in the United State due to persecution from their home country. You may qualify for asylum if you suffered persecution or fear persecution due to your race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, and/or political opinion.
Wait Times - Opportunities While Asylum is Pending
The asylum process can last a few months to a few years depending on the individual case. Once the application is submitted to the Court or USCIS, you will receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. At this appointment, your fingerprints will be taken. After 180 days (about 5 months), you may be eligible for employment authorization, which allows you to get a social security number and work legally in the United States.Â