Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
Asylum is a form of protection available under United States law for people who have fled their home country due to persecution or fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. In Arkansas, as across the nation, asylum seekers must navigate federal laws and processes primarily overseen by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the immigration courts. The process can be complex and typically involves preparing and submitting detailed applications, providing evidence of persecution, and attending interviews or hearings.
Seeking asylum is a legal process with many complicated steps and strict deadlines. Many individuals find it challenging to navigate these procedures on their own. Common situations where people may require legal help with asylum include:
An experienced immigration attorney can guide you through these challenges, ensuring your case is as strong as possible.
Arkansas does not have its own laws specifically governing asylum, as asylum is governed by federal law. However, how asylum cases are processed and the resources available to applicants can vary from state to state. In Arkansas, asylum seekers usually file their petitions either through the affirmative process (with USCIS) or the defensive process (in immigration court if facing removal proceedings). The application for asylum is made using Form I-589.
Applicants in Arkansas may have in-person interviews scheduled at the closest USCIS Asylum Office, which is often in Houston, Texas, since Arkansas does not have its own facility. Defensive asylum cases are typically heard by immigration judges at the Oakdale or New Orleans Immigration Courts in Louisiana. Asylum seekers must follow all federal guidelines for eligibility, evidence, deadlines, and must be aware of local resource limitations or opportunities for legal aid.
Asylum is protection granted to people in the United States who cannot return to their home country because of past persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons such as race, religion, or political opinion. Anyone physically present in the United States, including Arkansas, can apply for asylum, regardless of immigration status.
You apply for asylum by submitting Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, either to USCIS or to the immigration court if you are in removal proceedings. Supporting documents and personal statements are required.
Asylum applications generally must be submitted within one year of your arrival in the United States. Certain exceptions exist, for example, changes in circumstances or extraordinary conditions, but these are limited and carefully reviewed.
Yes, you can include your spouse and children under the age of 21 who are physically present in the United States, allowing them to be considered as part of your application.
USCIS or the immigration court will review your application. You may be scheduled for an interview (affirmative cases) or a hearing (defensive cases). Decisions may take months or longer, depending on the case.
You may apply for employment authorization if 150 days have passed since you filed your complete asylum application and no decision has been made on your case.
If your case is denied by USCIS and you do not have lawful status, you will normally be referred to immigration court where you can present your case to a judge. Immigration court denials can be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals and further to federal courts, though this process is complex.
While resources are limited, some nonprofit organizations and legal clinics provide free or low-cost assistance to asylum seekers in Arkansas. Legal representation dramatically improves chances of success, so seeking help is strongly recommended.
No, English is not required, but all forms and interviews must be conducted in English or through a qualified interpreter. Using a translator or attorney to prepare your application can be very helpful.
Leaving the United States while your case is pending may be considered abandonment of your application. If you absolutely must travel, you should seek prior approval through advance parole. Always consult a lawyer before making travel plans.
The following resources can offer valuable information or assistance for asylum seekers in Arkansas:
If you are unable to afford a private attorney, you may qualify for a pro bono or sliding scale legal program through these organizations.
If you or a loved one needs asylum-related legal assistance in Arkansas, here are steps you can take:
The asylum process can be intimidating and complicated, but with proper guidance and support, many people are able to find safety and protection in the United States. Acting quickly and seeking legal help when needed can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
