Asylee

An asylee is an individual who has fled their home country due to fear of persecution or actual persecution. Persecution can take many forms and can be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a specific social group. Persecution falls under five broad categories including fear of serious harm, coercive medical or psychological treatment, invidious prosecution or disproportionate punishment for a criminal offense, severe discrimination, economic persecution, and severe criminal extortion or robbery.

Asylees do not come to the United States with a designated refugee status, although they may meet the definition of refugee under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Asylees have the legal right to apply for asylum which may qualify them for specific services such as ORR-funded refugee assistance and social services. Asylees can apply for lawful permanent resident status (i.e. a green card) after one year of living in the United States.

If you are applying for asylum you will have to provide proof that you meet the definition for an asylee, and you will have to testify under oath regarding the truth of your application. The Board of Immigration Appeals may also expect corroborative testimony and other evidence when possible. Asylees can call the National Asylee Information and Referral Line (1.800.354.0365) to connect with local refugee service providers.