Maison Law Immigration Lawyers help those who are seeking asylum in California. With its links to cultural centers and overall opportunities, California is one of the most common places those in other countries go to when they want to become an asylee. However, the process can sometimes be challenging. Our team can guide you through the steps. Contact us today to set up a consultation.
When Do You Need a Lawyer?
You can certainly apply for asylum without legal help. However, like any process, the more help you have, the better your chances are for success. Our team of immigration lawyers can:
- Help you to handle the complex legal procedures
- Gather and present evidence effectively
- Prepare you for interviews with immigration officials
- Provide legal representation before judges
- Assist with appeals if your application is denied
- Manage changes in your circumstances
- Offer tailored legal advice throughout the asylum process
Again, you’re not required to have a lawyer for the asylum process. But that doesn’t mean you don’t need one. Facing the process on your own can be overwhelming, so having our team on your side can make the process easier.
What Countries Can You Claim Asylum From in California?
There’s obviously a lot of demand to come to California from another country. Whether it be work opportunities or being with family that’s already here, there’s no shortage of reasons to come here.
The asylum process is a bit different though. It involves wanting to come to California because of persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
Not surprisingly, California is an extremely popular destination for potential asylees. According to data from the Office of Immigration Statistics, California led the nation in asylum resettlements in 2022, with 2,182 arrivals.
This data also showed the countries that people seeking asylum came from. Leaders included:
- China
- Venezuela
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- India
- Honduras
- Afghanistan
- Turkey
- Russia
- Mexico
While these are the leading countries for asylum, you can ultimately come to California under asylee status from any “port of entry.” But remember, it’s important to look at the process and what you’ll need to do.
What is the Asylum Process?
One of the good things, relatively speaking, about looking at the asylum process for entry into the United States is that the process is pretty much the same–regardless of your country of origin. Here’s a quick overview:
- Trying to enter the United States – You must either be physically present in the United States or seeking entry at a port of entry.
- Submitting the application – At the entry point, you can file a Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, with supporting documentation showing the reasons why you’re filing for asylum in the first place.
- Fingerprints and Background check – After submitting the application, the next step is a biometric appointment for fingerprinting and background check.
- Interview – Next, you’ll probably have an interview with an asylum officer from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or appear before an immigration judge to present your case.
- Decision – After the interview or court appearance, a decision on your asylum application. If granted asylum, you can stay in the U.S. and start your life in California.
- Appeals – If you’re denied asylum, you may appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or be placed in removal proceedings where you can present your case to an immigration judge.
Given the nature of these steps, it’s pretty easy to see why you would want to think about having our experienced team on your side if you’re seeking asylum. The process is in place to help people that are experiencing persecution or discrimination of some kind, which is a highly-stressful way to live.
Contact Maison Immigration If You’re an Asylum Seeker Looking to Come to California
Chances are, if you’re seeking asylum, you feel like you’re in danger. So then, it’s important to do everything you can to make sure your asylum claim is as strong as possible. Our team can help you through this difficult time. We’ll make sure you have what you need to have your asylum application approved and you can come to California. Contact us today to set up a consultation to learn more.
