Asylum

Asylum Process

Asylum offers protection to individuals in the U.S. who fear persecution in their home country due to factors such as race, religion, nationality, or political opinion.

Initial Eligibility Assessment:

Credible Fear of Persecution: Confirm that you have a legitimate fear of persecution based on one of the protected grounds.
Physical Presence: Ensure you are currently in the U.S. or at a U.S. port of entry.

Gathering of Supporting Documentation:

Proof of Persecution: Collect evidence of the persecution you have faced or would face if you return to your home country.
Personal Affidavit: Prepare a personal affidavit explaining your fears of persecution.

Filing the Petition:

Form I-589: Submit Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, within one year of arriving in the U.S.
Supporting Documents: Include all supporting documentation, including evidence of your persecution and personal statement.

Asylum Interview & Decision:

Asylum Interview: Attend an interview with a USCIS officer (or an immigration court hearing if referred).
Work Authorization: Asylum applicants can apply for work authorization while the case is pending.
Decision: If granted asylum, you can stay in the U.S. and apply for a green card after one year.

Refugee Visa Process

Refugees are individuals who are outside their home country and unable or unwilling to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Initial Eligibility Assessment:

Location: Must be outside the U.S. and unable or unwilling to return to your home country due to fear of persecution.
Referral: Must be referred by a qualifying organization (e.g., the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a U.S. embassy, or another designated organization).
Credible Fear of Persecution: Must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on protected grounds such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group membership.

Gathering of Supporting Documentation:

Proof of Persecution: Gather evidence that supports your claim of persecution or the threat of persecution if you return to your home country.
Identity Documents: Provide documents such as a passport or national identification card to prove your identity.
Referral Documentation: If referred by a UNHCR or U.S. embassy, include any relevant letters or documentation that confirm your referral.

Filing the Petition:

Application for Refugee Status: You must apply for refugee status through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
Security and Medical Checks: Be prepared to undergo background security checks and a medical exam as part of the process.

What Sets Toppins Law Firm Apart?

Diversity and Inclusion
We celebrate and respect the diverse backgrounds of our clients and our team. Our firm is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued and supported, ensuring equitable access to legal representation.
Expertise and Excellence
Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is dedicated to achieving excellence in every case. We continually expand our knowledge and stay current with immigration laws to provide the most effective and innovative legal solutions.
Integrity and Transparency
We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all our interactions. Our clients can trust that we will provide clear, accurate information and ethical guidance throughout their immigration journey.
Client-Centered Advocacy
We are committed to providing compassionate, personalized legal services. We understand the complexities and emotional challenges of immigration processes, and we dedicate ourselves to advocating tirelessly for each client’s unique needs and goals.

Proudly Serving Clients in Houston, TX Areas We Serve

Toppins Law Firm, P.C. is proud to serve Houston, Texas and other surrounding areas.

Interview & Entry into the U.S.:

Refugee Interview: You will be interviewed by a U.S. officer to confirm your eligibility and assess your refugee claim.
Approval and Entry: If approved, you will be granted refugee status and permitted to enter the U.S.

Post-Entry & Green Card Process:

Eligibility for Green Card: Refugees can apply for a green card (lawful permanent residency) after being in the U.S. for one year.
Derivative Status: Spouses and children under 21 may be granted refugee status as derivatives, allowing them to accompany or join the principal applicant.
Work Authorization: Refugees are allowed to work in the U.S. and are protected from deportation.

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