Refugees and Asylum

Asylum and refugee protection involve persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution connected to race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. Eligibility requires an individual analysis of the evidence and applicable law.

Asylum generally concerns people in or arriving in the United States; refugee admission is a separate process generally involving people outside the United States. A person cannot assume that either process is available simply because conditions in a country are dangerous.

Asylum ordinarily has a one-year filing deadline, with limited exceptions. Filing jurisdiction, prior applications, travel history, criminal issues, statutory bars and current agency or court rules can affect a case. Seek advice promptly; do not wait for a work permit before addressing a filing deadline.

Work authorization, family follow-to-join benefits, travel documents and permanent residence after protection is granted each have separate requirements. Current forms, fees and procedures should be checked before any filing.

Asylum filing rules and deadline exceptions

Contact MELTSER LAW GROUP to discuss your circumstances, or call (847) 444-9000.

General information, not advice for an individual case. Updated October 10, 2026. Check current agency instructions, forms and fees before filing.