If you are an Iranian facing persecution or discrimination in Iran due to your political beliefs, religious practices, gender identity, or other qualifying factors, seeking asylum in the United States may be a viable option for you. 

Asylum is a form of protection offered to individuals who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. This protection allows them to live and work in the United States, ultimately providing a haven from the persecution they face.

At Yekrangi & Associates, our experienced immigration attorneys are dedicated to helping clients like you successfully handle the asylum process, providing a path to safety and freedom.

A Roadmap to Protection — The Asylum Process

The asylum process requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the legal requirements. Below is a roadmap outlining key steps in the asylum process and providing an approximate timeline for individuals seeking protection in the United States. 

Keep in mind that the timeline can vary significantly based on individual circumstances, changes in immigration policies, court backlogs, and external factors. Seeking legal advice and representation from experienced immigration attorneys can help individuals navigate the process more efficiently and effectively.

• Filing the Asylum Application — The process begins with filing the appropriate documents and supporting evidence. This step requires detailed information about your background, the reasons for seeking asylum, and compelling evidence supporting your claim.
• Biometrics Appointment — After submitting the initial application, you will typically attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other identifying information.
• Asylum Interview — Next, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will conduct an asylum interview to assess the credibility of your claim. During the interview, you will have the opportunity to present your case and provide additional evidence supporting your need for asylum. This interview usually takes place several months after the initial application is filed. 
• Decision by USCIS — Following the interview, USCIS will make a decision on your asylum application. This decision typically takes several months to over a year from the date of the interview. If approved, you can live and work in the United States. If denied, the case may be referred to an immigration court.
• Immigration Court Proceedings — If the asylum application is denied and the case proceeds to an immigration court, you will have the chance to present your case before an immigration judge. Legal representation is absolutely critical during this stage. Immigration court proceedings can take several months to several years to complete. 
• Appeals Process — If the judge denies asylum, there may be opportunities for appeal, including seeking relief from deportation.

Unique Challenges for Iranians Seeking Asylum

While the asylum process is relatively standard for all applicants, Iranians often face unique challenges that require nuanced legal expertise. Some of these challenges include:

• Political Persecution — Iranians who have faced persecution based on their political opinions or activism may find it challenging to prove their claims, given the complexity of political situations in Iran.
• Religious Discrimination — Members of religious minorities in Iran frequently encounter difficulties in demonstrating the extent of their persecution. It is extremely important to provide detailed evidence to support religious-based asylum claims.
• LGBTQ+ Rights — LGBTQ+ individuals in Iran may face severe persecution due to the country's stance on homosexuality and gender identity. Demonstrating the specific risks and challenges they face is essential in establishing a valid asylum claim.
• Gender-Based Persecution — Iranian women seeking asylum based on gender-based persecution, such as domestic violence or forced marriage, must present compelling evidence to support their claims.

Why Choose Yekrangi & Associates?

At Yekrangi & Associates, we understand the unique challenges Iranians face when seeking asylum in the United States. Our founding attorney, Ashkan Yekrangi, is an immigrant from Iran. Mr. Yekrangi is passionate about immigration and has a deep understanding of what it means to become a U.S. citizen, particularly for those fleeing violence and persecution in their home country. 

Our team of dedicated immigration attorneys has a proven track record of successfully representing clients from diverse backgrounds, including Iranians seeking asylum. We are committed to providing personalized and compassionate legal guidance throughout the entire process.

Contact Yekrangi & Associates Today

If you are an Iranian seeking asylum or facing challenges during the immigration process, you don’t have to go through this difficult process on your own. At Yekrangi & Associates, our experienced immigration team is ready to listen to your story, assess your situation, and guide you through the asylum process with expertise and empathy. Contact Yekrangi & Associates today for a confidential consultation. Your safety and well-being are our priority.