If Your Application Is Denied
In case your asylum application is not approved, you will be given a document called a ‘Notice of Intent to Deny’ (NOID). This document calls for you to submit further evidence to the asylum office to justify why you should win the asylum application. However, the NOID does not allow you to seek an attorney or judge to review the decision but you are advised to leave the U.S before your authorized stay ends. If you are not in a valid status like a VISA overstay, you will be placed under deportation proceedings in the immigration courts. In court, the presiding judge will hear testimonies from your friends, family and submitted evidence to determine whether you are allowed to remain in the U.S. The judge may grant you, the refugee, asylum benefits, withhold your deportation and even grant lawful permanent residence in form of a VISA Green card to the refugee.
The One-Year Filing Deadline
The one year filing deadline dictates that asylum seekers should file their application within one year after they arrive in the United States. Some extraordinary circumstances may allow an asylum application after the one year recommended timeline in some cases but the application should be filed within a reasonable period of time, usually within a few months after the events that caused the circumstance. You must be 18 years old, be of good moral standing, able to read and write Basic English, and demonstrate an understanding of U.U. ideals and disciplines enshrined in the constitution.
From Asylum to Citizenship
To apply for naturalization, the refugee will have to meet the general legal requirements of citizenship and pay a fee of $725 to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process will take between 6 and 14 moths. After this, you will receive an appointment letter from USCIS that will take you through various background checks by the Department of Justice and the FBI for clearance. You will then be interviewed by USCIS officers who will question your application, background history, character, and understanding of U.S. Constitution where you will be required to take an oath of allegiance.
Conclusion
Ideally, the above steps are the conduits through which an asylum seeker can gain refugee status and subsequent U.S. Citizenship. It may be lengthy, straining and demanding but following the legal methods will guarantee a refugee definite and indisputable refugee status in the United Status. Therefore, exercise patience and due diligence when seeking your asylum status in the U.S.
Dickson Soire
Afrikagora Magazine
