{"id":352739,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:46","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/obtaining-asylum-claim-chronology.html"},"modified":"2026-05-09T16:59:00","modified_gmt":"2026-05-09T21:59:00","slug":"obtaining-asylum-claim-chronology","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/obtaining-asylum-claim-chronology.html","title":{"rendered":"The U.S. Asylum Process: A Step-by-Step Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The U.S. Asylum Process: A Step-by-Step Guide<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Joseph Fawbush, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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The U.S. asylum process<\/span> requires applicants to be physically present in the country and to show they meet the legal definition of a refugee<\/span> based on a well\u2011founded fear of persecution<\/span>. After filing the appropriate forms, applicants complete biometrics<\/span>, attend an interview, and receive a decision that may grant asylum, refer the case to immigration court<\/span>, or issue a notice of intent to deny.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

The process of applying for asylum in the U.S. is detailed, time\u2011sensitive, and requires careful preparation. Understanding each step before you begin helps you stay organized and avoid issues that could delay or weaken your claim.<\/p>\n

Keep reading for a clear step-by-step<\/span> guide to seeking asylum in the United States. Learn what to expect from arrival in the U.S. to understanding the decision of your asylum application<\/span>.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0asylum\u00a0process<\/span> system is complex and highly procedural. Many applicants benefit from getting legal help. An experienced immigration attorney<\/a> can guide you through each step of the asylum process<\/span>.<\/p>\n

Establishing Eligibility<\/span> for Asylum<\/h2>\n

All asylum seekers<\/span> must meet the definition of refugee under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This includes foreign nationals who are unable or unwilling to return to their home countries<\/span> because of a\u00a0well-founded fear of persecution<\/span><\/a>\u00a0based on their:<\/p>\n