The world can be unwelcoming for LGBTQ individuals, and many who come to the United States face the harsh reality that returning to their birth countries is not an option due to deep-seated hostility towards their existence, not because of any actions or statements they have made. We understand the persecution you may have faced, and we are here to help you navigate the asylum process in the U.S. efficiently.
For LGBTQ individuals in the U.S., it’s essential to apply for asylum correctly and thoroughly with the assistance of an immigration lawyer. Once your asylum case is approved, you may be eligible to pursue permanent residency and U.S. citizenship after a waiting period of one year.
At Musa-Obregon Law PC, we assist LGBTQ asylum seekers who:
- Have experienced harm or have a well-founded fear of harm or death.
- Have received inadequate protection or are faced with a government that is unable or unwilling to ensure their safety.
These conditions are crucial for receiving asylum in the U.S. To discuss your qualifications and how the asylum process applies to your unique situation, please contact our office in New York at (888) 502-8461.
Asylum seekers come to the U.S. seeking protection from political oppression and victimization. You must apply for asylum within one year of your arrival in the U.S. If you have missed this deadline but are at risk of deportation, you can apply for Asylum and Withholding of Removal using Form I-589. We can also assist you in applying for permission to work in the U.S. with Form I-765, when you are eligible.
While this option can halt deportation, it does not provide a path to citizenship. However, one year after being granted asylum, you can apply for Permanent Residence (Green Card) using Form I-485.
Additionally, you may qualify for other forms of immigration relief if you have been a victim of human trafficking or other violent crimes, including rape, domestic violence, sexual assault, hate crimes, or other violent offenses.
Seeking refuge in a new country represents a journey towards a better life, filled with both hope and fear. For those persecuted because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, this journey is about finding a place where they can live openly and safely. In Los Angeles, a city celebrated for its diversity and acceptance, a specialized LGBT asylum lawyer can be a vital guide through the complex asylum process. Here’s how a New York / New Jersey attorney from Musa-Obregon Law PC can assist you:
- Understanding The Legal Framework: A skilled attorney can provide a comprehensive overview of the asylum process, including eligibility criteria, timelines, and required documentation. They can explain how U.S. laws protect individuals fleeing persecution based on their LGBT identity and how these laws apply to your asylum application.
- Personalized Case Assessment: Every asylum case is unique. An attorney can offer a personalized evaluation of your situation, highlighting the aspects that are most likely to meet the criteria for asylum. This ensures your application clearly articulates your fear of returning to your home country and how it relates to your LGBT identity.
- Preparing Your Application: Compiling a strong asylum application is essential. An experienced legal team can assist in gathering necessary evidence, including documentation of your LGBT identity, evidence of persecution, and relevant country conditions reports. They can also help prepare a compelling personal statement that narrates your story effectively.
- Representation In Interviews And Hearings: Legal representation during asylum interviews and court hearings can significantly impact your case. A knowledgeable attorney can prepare you for potential questions, advise you on how to articulate your experiences, and represent you during proceedings, providing both legal guidance and emotional support.
- Addressing Delays And Challenges: The asylum process can be lengthy. An attorney can monitor your case's progress, communicate with authorities, and address any challenges, from responding to requests for information to appealing decisions.
- Post-Asylum Support: The support from an attorney doesn’t end with asylum approval. They can advise on the next steps, including applying for a work permit, lawful permanent resident status, and citizenship. An attorney can also connect you with community resources to help you adjust to your new life in the United States.
Embarking on the path to asylum demonstrates your strength and resilience. While the process may seem daunting, you don’t have to navigate it alone. A New York / New Jersey attorney specializing in LGBT asylum cases can offer the experience, support, and compassion needed to pursue a safer, more authentic life. Seeking help is the first step toward turning hope into reality.
For a case evaluation and to discuss the asylum process in the U.S., please contact our office at (888) 502-8461, or reach out to our experienced attorneys through our contact form.
Musa-Obregon Law PC offers services in Spanish, and our founding attorney has a working knowledge of French, and understands some Polish, Swahili, and Arabic.