A loose definition of asylum is establishing shelter from danger or hardship. Many immigrants suffering from persecution or other hardships seek asylum in New York state to escape their circumstances.
While the U.S. welcomes most who need asylum, approval is never guaranteed. Certain acts or conduct in your history could bar you from receiving asylum.
A preventable error
You must apply for asylum with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within one year after arriving in America. If you fail to meet this deadline, it may bar you from applying. Fortunately, this is a mistake you can avoid by turning in your application before the deadline.
Disqualifying actions or conduct
The United States welcomes immigrants with diverse backgrounds and cultures but will not give asylum to those who participate in certain conduct. Examples of conduct-related bars to asylum include:
- Conviction for a “particularly serious crime”
- Actions that could compromise the security of America
- Commission of a “serious nonpolitical crime” in another country
- The persecution of others for their race, religion, national origin, etc.
Further, if the USCIS finds that you settled into another country before requesting asylum here, it will likely deny your request.
Terrorist activity or involvement
As you may know, terrorism is among the most heinous acts in the eyes of the federal government. If you have ever played a role in terrorist activities, the USCIS will deny your asylum request. Examples of involvement include:
- Inciting terrorism
- Engaging in terrorism
- Representing terrorist organizations
- Membership in terrorist organizations
- Obtained militarized training from a terrorist organization
Learning more about immigration/asylum, including its rules and procedures, ensures you make no mistakes when applying. Speaking with an immigration professional can help you determine your next steps.
