If an individual has felt persecuted or fears persecution, they can file an I-589 form, Application for Asylum and/or Withholding of Removal. To be granted asylum, the applicant may provide proof of persecution or risk of persecution upon returning to their home country. These are known as “corroborating documents” and they can include medical reports, police reports, or affidavits/letters from family members, partners, or friends who can validate the claims.

You must complete your asylum application within one year after arriving in the United States. You can include your spouse and children in the application if they are in the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will give you a receipt notice once your application is filed. You will then have to wait for DHS to schedule your interview. At your interview, you will usually be asked to describe what happened and what you fear would happen if you return home.