Benefits for asylum seekers in USA

For those fleeing persecution and seeking a better life, the U.S. offers a legal process known as asylum that provides safety and opportunities for a new beginning. Once granted asylum, individuals are entitled to a variety of benefits that provide stability, protection, and the chance to build a future. 

At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, we understand the complexities of asylum law and are dedicated to helping our clients navigate this journey. With experienced attorneys by your side, we offer comprehensive legal solutions tailored to your unique situation.

In this guide, we will explore the key benefits for asylum seekers in the United States and how you can secure them. From work authorization and healthcare to family reunification and the path to U.S. citizenship, this article will help you understand the opportunities available to you.

What Is Asylum?

Asylum Protection in the U.S.

Asylum is a form of humanitarian protection granted to individuals who are in the U.S. and have suffered persecution—or have a credible fear of persecution—in their home country. The persecution may be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a specific social group.

Once granted asylum, individuals are allowed to stay in the U.S. and are entitled to various rights and protections, including protection from deportation and access to public services. However, it is essential to understand the legal process, meet the eligibility requirements, and file your asylum application properly. The attorneys at Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC can guide you through every step of the asylum application process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you get the best possible outcome.

Eligibility for Asylum in the U.S.

To qualify for asylum in the United States, applicants must show evidence of:

• A well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
• A timely application: Asylum seekers must apply within one year of arriving in the U.S. unless they can demonstrate exceptional circumstances for the delay.

If you meet the criteria and are granted asylum, you will be able to access several important benefits.

Key Benefits for Asylum Seekers in the USA

1. Work Authorization: Building a Secure Future

One of the most critical benefits for asylum seekers is the ability to work legally while their asylum application is pending.

• Work Authorization Before Asylum Approval: After filing your asylum application, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) after 150 days. If your case is still pending after 180 days, you can continue working legally in the U.S. with the EAD.
• Work Rights After Asylum Approval: Once granted asylum, individuals are authorized to work in the U.S. indefinitely. Asylum seekers can also apply for a Social Security number (SSN) and enjoy the same employment rights as U.S. citizens, including protection against workplace discrimination.

2. Access to Healthcare and Public Assistance

Although asylum seekers may not have access to public benefits while their cases are pending, once they are granted asylum, they can apply for a range of critical benefits, including healthcare and food assistance.

• Medicaid: After being granted asylum, individuals may be eligible for Medicaid in many states. Medicaid provides essential health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital services, and medication, easing the financial burden of medical care.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Asylum seekers who are granted asylum are also eligible for SNAP benefits, which assist with grocery costs and help ensure they can meet basic nutritional needs.

3. Family Reunification: Bringing Loved Ones to Safety

Family reunification is a crucial benefit for asylum seekers. The U.S. allows those granted asylum to petition for their spouse and children under 21 to join them in the country.

• Derivative Asylum Status: If you are granted asylum, your spouse and children can apply for derivative asylum status, which allows them to stay in the U.S. and receive work authorization and healthcare benefits once their asylum is approved.
• Refugee Travel Document: Once granted asylum, you can apply for a Refugee Travel Document, which allows you to travel abroad without jeopardizing your asylum status.

At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, we can help you understand the family reunification process and assist in preparing the necessary paperwork to bring your family to safety as quickly as possible.

4. Legal Assistance and Representation

Navigating the asylum process can be overwhelming, and having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, we provide comprehensive legal services for asylum seekers. Our attorneys will:

• Guide you through the asylum application: We help you file the necessary forms, gather the right evidence, and prepare for interviews and hearings.
• Representation in Immigration Court: If your case goes to immigration court, our experienced attorneys will represent you, ensuring that your case is heard and that you have the best chance for a favorable decision.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Asylum grants you the opportunity to eventually apply for permanent residency (a green card) and U.S. citizenship.

• Green Card After One Year: If you have been granted asylum, you can apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card) after one year. This allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S.
• Citizenship: After five years of holding a green card, you can apply for U.S. citizenship, which grants you the right to vote, run for office, and access all federal benefits available to U.S. citizens.

Additional Benefits for Asylum Seekers

6. Protection from Deportation

Once granted asylum, individuals are protected from deportation back to their home country, as long as their asylum status remains valid. This protection offers peace of mind, knowing that you cannot be forced to return to a country where you may face harm.

7. Educational and Employment Rights

Asylum Seekers and those granted asylum are entitled to access education and employment opportunities in the U.S.

• Public Education: Children of asylum seekers have the right to attend public schools, ensuring that they receive an education and are integrated into American society.
• In-State Tuition: Many states offer in-state tuition rates to asylees, making education more affordable and accessible.
• Equal Employment Rights: Asylum seekers with work authorization have the right to apply for jobs, work legally, and enjoy the same labor protections as U.S. citizens.

Challenges You May Face as an Asylum Seeker

While there are significant benefits, asylum seekers also face challenges:

• Delays in Processing: The asylum process can take years due to backlogs in immigration courts. This delay can lead to uncertainty, especially when waiting for work authorization or public benefits.
• Limited Access to Benefits While Waiting: Asylum seekers may not have access to many public benefits until they are granted asylum. This can be a significant challenge for individuals and families who need financial assistance during the waiting period.

Despite these challenges, asylum seekers are entitled to critical protections and benefits that can help them build a secure future in the U.S.

Maximizing the Benefits of Asylum Status

To ensure you get the most from your asylum status, consider these tips:

1. Apply for Work Authorization Early

Once eligible, apply for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to legally work in the U.S. This will help you financially while you wait for your asylum case to be resolved.

2. Seek Legal Help Early

The asylum process can be complex. At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, our experienced attorneys can help you file your application, gather the necessary documentation, and guide you through the process with confidence.

3. Stay Updated on Immigration Laws

Immigration laws can change, so it’s essential to stay informed. By working with a trusted immigration attorney, you can be sure that you are always following the latest rules and procedures.

The United States offers a range of benefits to asylum seekers, including the right to work, access to healthcare, family reunification, and a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, we are committed to helping you navigate the asylum process and secure your future in the U.S. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of asylum law and will work tirelessly to ensure you have the support you need every step of the way.

If you are seeking asylum or have already applied, don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you maximize your rights and opportunities in the United States.

Why Choose Us?

Expertise You Can Trust

Our team of skilled attorneys brings a wealth of knowledge and experience across various legal fields. Whether you are facing immigration challenges, family law issues, or need assistance with business law, we have the expertise to guide you through every step of the process. We understand that each case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a strategy that works for you.

Personalized Legal Solutions

At Law Offices of Ruma Jannatul PLLC, we believe in a client-centered approach. We recognize that legal matters can be overwhelming, and we are here to simplify the process for you. Our attorneys work closely with you to understand your situation, providing personalized solutions that align with your goals. We are committed to ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout your legal journey.

Comprehensive Services

We offer a wide range of legal services, including:

• Immigration Law: Navigating the immigration process can be daunting. Our attorneys are well-versed in immigration law and can assist you with visas, green cards, asylum applications, and more.
• Family Law: Whether you are dealing with divorce, child custody, or adoption, our compassionate attorneys are here to help you through these sensitive matters with care and understanding.
• Business Law: From starting a new business to handling contracts and disputes, we provide comprehensive legal support to help your business thrive.
• Criminal Defense: If you are facing criminal charges, our experienced defense attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Final Summary