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Asylum & Refugee Status

Chicago Asylum Attorney

Dedicated Legal Support for Asylum Seekers in Cook County

The United States offers certain protections to asylees and refugees. To qualify as an asylee or refugee, you must demonstrate you experienced past persecution or fear future persecution in your home country (or previous country of residence) on the basis of one of several protected grounds. Asylees and refugees can live and work practically anywhere in the country. They can also eventually obtain green cards, which can provide a pathway to citizenship

Seeking asylee or refugee status can be extremely difficult. Our Chicago asylum lawyer at Aparicio Immigration Law is a fierce litigator that can serve as your guide and advocate throughout the process. Our track record speaks for itself, as we have an excellent track record for winning cases that require litigation. 

Steps to Successfully Obtain Asylum in the U.S.

To apply for asylum in another country, the following steps are typically followed:

  • Determine eligibility: The first step is to determine if you are eligible for asylum. You must currently live outside of your home country and meet the refugee definitions.
  • Seek legal counsel: It is recommended that you seek professional representation from an immigration attorney to help with your U.S. asylum case. Lawyers can guide you through the asylum process and help you understand your legal rights.
  • Prepare & submit an application: You will need to fill out an asylum application and submit it to the appropriate government agency. The asylum application usually includes personal information, details about the persecution you faced or fear facing, and evidence that supports your case.
  • Attend the interview: After completing and submitting your application, you will attend an interview with a government official. Interviews are used to evaluate your claim's credibility and gather additional information.
  • Wait for your asylum decision: Once you have completed the interview, you will need to wait for a decision on your asylum application. The decision can take several months to several years, depending on the country and complexity of your case.
  • Appeal or seek alternatives: If your asylum application is denied, you may appeal the decision or seek other forms of relief, such as withholding removal or protection under the Convention Against Torture.

Because the asylum process can be lengthy and complex, we recommend working with an experienced Chicago asylum attorney who can guide you through every step of the process.

Understanding Asylees vs. Refugees

The term “asylee” and “refugee” are sometimes used interchangeably. While each designation confers similar benefits, they represent different processes for seeking protection from persecution in the United States.

Key Differences: Asylum Seekers and Refugees

  • When you seek asylum, you do so when already inside the United States or at a U.S. port of entry. This can be done affirmatively or defensively, and if you are granted status, you will be permitted to stay in (or enter) the country. 
  • When you seek refugee status, you do so remotely. If you are granted status, you receive permission to travel to and enter the United States.
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Why Choose Aparicio Immigration Law?

  • Spanish Speaking Services Available
    With a staff that speaks English and Spanish fluently, our team makes sure all communication with clients is always direct and always clear.
  • We are Centrally & Conveniently Located

    Our office is located less than a mile from Chicago Immigration Court, allowing us to very conveniently help all clients throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

  • We Have a Record that Speaks for Itself
    With many victorious cases taken to court and hundreds of happy reviews from clients, our team proudly works hard to earn its good reputation.
  • We Can Relate to Your Experience
    Having gone through the immigration process himself, Attorney Aparicio has first-hand experience to help understand your situation.
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  • Illinois State Bar
  • Chicago Bar Association
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