The U.S. immigration allows people, who suffered past persecution and have well-founded fear of future persecution if they return to the country of their nationality, to seek asylum or refugee status that will eventually allow them to obtain permanent residency (green card). However, to qualify for asylum or refugee status, the applicant must show that he suffered past persecution and holds a well-founded fear of future persecution in the country of nationality on account of his or her:
- race,
- nationality,
- religion,
- membership of a particular social group or because he or she is identified with a particular social group,
- political opinion that will subject him to persecution.
Also,the law requires that an applicant must apply within 1 year of arriving in the U.S. otherwise, applicant must show either extraordinary circumstances or changed circumstances in his or her home country.
Steps
You should apply for lawful permanent residency on Form I-485, application to Register Permanent Residence of Adjust Status. You must have been in the US on an asylee status for at least one year. In order to obtain an asylee status for your spouse or under age children, a Form I-730 must be filed for each family member within two years from the time your asylee status is granted by the USCIS or an Immigration Judge. For professional help, contact the law office.