Asylum applications are often denied due to insufficient evidence, inconsistencies in testimony, missing deadlines, or failure to prove a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, or membership in a particular social group. To strengthen your case, provide detailed personal statements, corroborating documents, reports on your country’s repressive or dangerous conditions, and credible witness testimonies. Consistency in interviews and legal representation from an experienced asylum attorney can also significantly improve your chances of approval.
The Florida family immigration lawyers at Bassey Immigration Law Center help non-U.S. citizens become United States citizens. Our dedicated team of immigration attorneys can provide straightforward answers to your questions about asylum applications. We are committed to giving you and your loved ones the tools to realize your American Dream. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Top Reasons for Asylum Application Denial
Applying for asylum is a complex legal process, and many applications are denied due to procedural errors, lack of sufficient evidence, or failure to meet the legal definition of a refugee, including the following:
Missed Deadline
The deadline for filing an asylum application is generally one year from the applicant’s entry into the U.S. This deadline is rarely extended unless there are specific, extraordinary circumstances. Missing it is perhaps the most common reason for asylum application denial.
Incorrectly Completed Application
Applicants must submit Form I-589, “Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal,” to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application is complex, especially for those not fluent in English. Without guidance, it is easy to submit an incorrectly completed application. Often, a denial is as simple as not submitting the required number of copies.
Insufficient Evidence
To obtain asylum, you must prove that you will suffer persecution in your home country based on your race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political party.
Evidence should include critical documents, including your birth certificate, passport, residency, and school, medical and employment records. In addition, you must include a detailed personal narrative describing why you fear returning to your country.
You must provide credible evidence showing that returning to your country is dangerous. Such evidence may include threatening texts, emails, social media posts, photographs, or police reports.
Asylum seekers must also provide current country condition reports to support their claim that they face persecution in their home country. Since conditions in a country can change over time, immigration authorities require up-to-date evidence showing that the applicant’s fear of persecution remains valid.
Missing Appointments
The applicant must attend all appointments before an asylum officer or an immigration judge. Missing an appointment jeopardizes your case and will result in denial.
Interview Issues
The interview with an asylum officer is one of the most crucial elements of your asylum case. You must bring an interpreter to the interview if you do not speak English. If you have a spouse or children under age 21 who are named in your application, they must accompany you.
How to Strengthen Your Asylum Case
The best way to strengthen your asylum case is by hiring a deportation attorney as soon as possible. They will ensure that the application is filed correctly and within the deadline. They will also review your evidence to ensure it is compelling enough to meet asylum criteria. If it does not meet that standard, your lawyer will advise you regarding the necessary documents and other information you must submit to build your case.
Your attorney can also help you prepare for your interview. A well-prepared applicant is more likely to have their asylum application approved. Your lawyer will ensure you know all appointments and notify you of any changes.
Remember that your lawyer can cross-examine opposing witnesses at your hearing, strengthening your case.
Contact Bassey Law Today
If you would like to discuss your asylum application with a deportation lawyer who knows the process and has helped many people like you, contact Bassey Immigration Law Center today to schedule a legal consultation.
About Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A.
Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A., led by attorney Aniefiok Bassey, provides comprehensive immigration services to individuals, families, and businesses in Florida and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, the firm assists clients with a wide range of immigration matters, from family reunification and green cards to business visas and deportation defense. The diverse, multilingual team is dedicated to supporting clients through the complex immigration process, with a special focus on citizenship, asylum, and LGBTQ+ immigration needs. They offer affordable initial consultations and are committed to delivering personalized, strategic guidance for achieving clients’ immigration goals.
