Navigating Asylum in the US: Expert Advice for Ukrainian Refugees

Seeking Asylum in the US: A Conversation with Immigration Lawyers The ongoing war in Ukraine has led to a significant increase in the number of Ukrainian citizens seeking asylum in the United States. This report provides insights into the process based on an interview with immigration lawyers Darya and Gloria. Darya and Gloria explained that there are various grounds for applying for asylum, including political persecution, religious persecution, and persecution based on nationality or membership in a particular social group. They emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive information in the application: "All details matter," Gloria stated. "Dates, names, addresses—everything must match the information you have already submitted." The lawyers also described the two types of asylum processes: affirmative asylum (for those who apply while legally in the US) and defensive asylum (for those who enter the country without authorization). They noted that affirmative asylum cases generally have a higher success rate and involve a simpler interview process. The interview also covered the process of obtaining a work permit while awaiting a decision, which can take up to 10 years. Applicants can apply for a work permit after 150 days, and the government typically approves it after 180 days. The lawyers provided valuable advice on the documents needed to strengthen an asylum case, including psychological and medical reports and human rights reports. This interview offers valuable guidance for Ukrainian asylum seekers and highlights the complexities of the US asylum system.