People who seek political asylum are legally entitled to stay in the United States if they can prove that they have suffered persecution, or fear that they will be persecuted if they return to their country of origin. Persecution is generally defined as harm or the threat of harm based on one or more of five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, and membership in a particular social group. People who are granted asylum are known as “asylees.” They can work and travel freely, and they can sponsor their spouse or children to join them. They can also become permanent residents and eventually citizens.
The number of people seeking asylum has risen in recent years, fueled by worsening violence, poverty, and political instability worldwide. Although the qualifications for asylum closely resemble those for refugee status, the distinction is distinct, and officials may deny asylum even when a person meets the legal requirements of refugee law. Asylum seekers generally have the right to appeal a negative determination.
Some lawmakers, especially Republicans, argue that the asylum system no longer serves its intended purpose. They have proposed legislation to reduce the backlog of asylum cases by expediting deportations and raising the minimum standard for a credible fear interview. Others, however, advocate that welcoming those fleeing persecution is a fundamental American value. In either case, displaced people and their families can suffer mental distress until they learn the outcome of their case.