Applying for asylum in the United States is a complex and often stressful process. If you are seeking protection due to persecution in your home country, you will need to undergo an asylum interview as part of the asylum application process. Understanding what questions will be asked and how to prepare can significantly improve your chances of success.
In this guide, we’ll break down the asylum interview process, the types of questions you’ll encounter, tips for answering effectively, and how to apply for asylum with the help of an immigration attorney.
What to Expect During an Asylum Interview
The interview typically follows a structured format consisting of three main parts:
- Biographical Information – Questions about your personal details and background.
- Reason for Seeking Asylum – Inquiries about why you left your country and the persecution you faced.
- General Questions – Standard questions asked of all applicants to verify credibility.
The asylum officer (AO) may ask both open-ended and closed-ended questions. If you do not understand a question, request clarification before responding.
What to Bring on the Day of Your Interview
On the day of your interview, ensure you have the following:
Identification Documents
- A valid passport(s) (if available)
- Other travel or identification documents
- Form I-94 (Arrival-Departure Record), if issued upon entry to the U.S.
Supporting Documents
- Original versions of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or any other documents previously submitted with Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal)
- A complete copy of your Form I-589 and any additional evidence submitted
- Any new evidence supporting your claim that you have not previously submitted
- Certified translations of any non-English documents
Interpreters at Your Asylum Interview
Who Provides the Interpreter?
- You must bring your own interpreter if you are not fluent in English.
- USCIS does not provide interpreters except for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. If you need an interpreter for these reasons, contact your assigned asylum office in advance.
Rules for Interpreters
- Your interpreter must:
- Be fluent in English and your language
- Be at least 18 years old
- Cannot be:
- Your attorney or legal representative
- A witness testifying for you
- A representative or employee of your home country’s government
- USCIS may use contract interpreters to monitor the interview for accuracy.
Regulations on interpreters can be found at 8 CFR 208.9(g).
Family Members (if applicable)
- Your spouse and children under 21 included in your application must also attend and bring any identity, travel, or supporting documents they possess.
Bringing an Attorney or Representative
- If you have an attorney or accredited representative, they must submit Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative) to accompany you.
Remote Participation of Attorneys
- Attorneys can participate remotely via telephone if they submit Form G-1593 (Certification for Remote Participation).
- If your attorney is unavailable, your interview may proceed unless you request a reschedule.
Why You Should Have Legal Representation
- Having an attorney can help you understand the process and present your case effectively.
- They can submit legal arguments and evidence on your behalf.
- If you cannot afford an attorney, you may find pro bono (free or low-cost) legal services.
Asylum Approval Rates & Why Legal Help Matters
Obtaining asylum is challenging. In fact, about 73% of asylum applications are denied on the first attempt. However, working with an experienced immigration attorney can significantly improve your chances of success.
An immigration lawyer can help you:
- Complete your application correctly.
- Gather strong supporting evidence.
- Prepare for your asylum interview.
- Appeal a denied asylum case if necessary.
What Happens During the Interview?
Your asylum interview will last at least one hour and involves:
- Oath-Taking: You and your interpreter (if applicable) must swear to tell the truth.
- Identity Verification: An asylum officer will confirm your identity and documents.
- Questioning: You will be asked about:
- Basic biographical details
- Your reasons for seeking asylum
- Any legal or security bars to asylum eligibility
- Confidentiality: The information you provide is confidential, with exceptions outlined in 8 CFR 208.6.
- Final Statements: At the end, you or your attorney can make additional statements.
- Decision Timing: No decision will be made on the spot. You will be notified later.
The asylum decision will be based on the information provided during the interview, and it is crucial to prepare thoroughly to influence the outcome positively.
Rescheduling Your Interview
If you need to reschedule your asylum interview, submit a request in writing to the asylum office where your interview is scheduled.
Rescheduling Guidelines
- First-time rescheduling requests will generally be approved if received before the interview date.
- If the request is made within 15 days after the scheduled interview or if you have already rescheduled once, you must provide a “good cause” explanation.
Defining “Good Cause”
- A reasonable excuse for being unable to attend the interview
- Evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the asylum office
- If USCIS sent your notice to an incorrect address, your interview will be rescheduled without requiring a “good cause” justification
Find your nearest asylum office
Failure to Appear for Your Interview
If you fail to appear for your asylum interview and do not provide an explanation within 15 days:
- If you lack legal status in the U.S., your case will be referred to Immigration Court.
- If you have legal status, your case may be administratively closed under 8 CFR 208.10.
- You may request a reschedule if you can demonstrate “exceptional circumstances” or improper USCIS notification.
Impact on Work Authorization
- You may apply for work authorization 150 days after submitting a complete asylum application if no decision has been made.
- If you miss your interview without an excused reason, you may lose eligibility for work authorization. An applicant-caused delay affects eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Why the Interview Matters
The asylum substantive interview is a critical step in your application process. It is conducted by immigration officials to determine:
- Whether you are telling the truth
- If your story aligns with your written asylum application
- The validity of your claim and supporting evidence
To prepare effectively, we have outlined the most common types of questions you might face and how to respond confidently.
Key Questions You May Be Asked At Interview
Biographical Information
- What is your full legal name?
- When and where were you born (country, city)?
- What is your nationality?
- What is your marital status? If married, what is your spouse’s name?
- Do you have children? If so, what are their names and birthdates?
- Have you ever used any other names or aliases?
- Where do you currently reside?
- Have you ever applied for asylum in another country?
- Do you hold legal status in another country?
Reasons for Seeking Asylum
- Why are you applying for asylum?
- What specific incidents led you to leave your country?
- Who or what group persecuted you?
- How did they harm you (physical violence, threats, discrimination, etc.)?
- Why do you believe you were targeted?
- Do you have any evidence to support your claims?
- Have you reported these incidents to the authorities in your home country? If not, why not?
- Do you fear being tortured or harmed if returned?
- Have you or your family members been targeted because of your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group?
- Can you safely relocate to another part of your home country?
- Do you have family in the home country? Are you in contact with them?
- What is the main threat you are facing?
- Who is making you feel unsafe?
- Have you been harmed or threatened directly?
- Do you have any supporting evidence (e.g., documents, police reports, photos, or testimonies)?
General Questions
- Have you ever been arrested, detained, or convicted of a crime?
- Have you been involved in any political or social organizations?
- Did you attempt to relocate within your country before leaving?
- Has the situation in your home country changed since you left?
- When and how did you travel to the U.S., and who financed your journey?
- List the countries you travelled through to reach the US.
- When did you arrive in the United States?
- How did you enter the country (e.g., visa, border crossing)?
- Do you experience trauma-related symptoms such as nightmares or anxiety about returning?
- Have you ever been involved in any criminal activities?
- Have you ever harmed others or participated in persecution?
- Have you ever worked for or been affiliated with the government, military, or any political organizations?
- Have you received any threats since coming to the U.S.?
- Do you have any evidence (documents, photos, witness statements) to support your asylum claim?
- How did you collect your evidence?
- Have you submitted all the documents you have?
- Are there any witnesses who can confirm your story
PRO TIPS
- While testimony alone can sometimes be enough to be granted asylum, it is always better to provide supporting evidence whenever possible.
- Ensure that your answers match the details in your official documents. If they do not match, be prepared to explain discrepancy
- If you cannot recall exact dates, mention an estimated period—such as the month, season, or a memorable event that happened around that time.
- Avoid guessing or speculating. If you don’t know an answer, say so honestly rather than making assumptions.
- Make sure all your documents are well-organized and easy to access. If you are missing documents, explain why.
How to Stay Calm & Confident
The same questions may be asked repeatedly to check for inconsistencies. This can be exhausting, but staying composed is crucial. Here’s how:
✔ Take deep breaths and speak slowly.
✔ If overwhelmed, request a short break or a glass of water.
✔ Don’t rush—take your time to answer clearly.
✔ Be honest—if you don’t know the answer, say so instead of guessing. ✔ Ask for a translator if you need one.
📌 ACTION STEP: Conduct at least one or two practice interviews with your lawyer or caseworker to build confidence.
How to Prepare for Your Asylum Interview
1. Gather Your Documents
Bring all relevant documentation, including:
- Passports and identification
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Police reports and medical records
- Affidavits from witnesses or experts
- News articles or reports on the situation in your home country
2. Practice Answering Questions
- Rehearse your responses but avoid memorizing them verbatim.
- Focus on consistency; any discrepancies can harm your credibility.
- If you do not remember something, it is acceptable to say, “I do not recall.”
3. Arrive Early and Be Professional
- Dress formally and arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment.
- Maintain eye contact and answer questions clearly and concisely.
- If you need an interpreter, ensure they are fluent in your language.
4. Know Your Rights
- You have the right to have an attorney present (submit Form G-28 beforehand).
- Your interview is confidential and will not be recorded.
How to Apply for Asylum in the U.S.
To apply for asylum, you must:
- Be Physically Present in the U.S. – You cannot apply from outside the country.
- File Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) – This must be submitted within one year of your arrival in the U.S.
- Include Dependents (If Applicable) – Your spouse and children under 21 can be included in your application.
- Prepare for Your Interview – Gather documents and work with an immigration attorney for guidance.
- Check Your Case Status – You can track your application status on the USCIS Case Status Page.
Visual Breakdown: The Asylum Process
To help visualize the asylum process, here is a general flowchart:
📌 Step 1: Arrive in the U.S.
📌 Step 2: File Form I-589 within 1 year
📌 Step 3: Attend biometrics appointment
📌 Step 4: Go through the asylum interview
📌 Step 5: Receive a decision (approval, referral to immigration court, or denial)
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Asylum?
In the context of seeking protection in the United States, an individual is eligible for asylum if they are physically present in the United States or seeking admission at a port of entry and can demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country based on their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
Your immigration status does not impact your ability to apply.
Exceptions to the One-Year Rule
You may qualify for an exception if you demonstrate:
- Changed Circumstances, such as:
- Conditions in your home country have significantly worsened.
- U.S. law changes that impact eligibility.
- Loss of dependent status due to marriage, divorce, death, or age.
- Extraordinary Circumstances, including:
- Serious illness or disability.
- Being a minor without legal representation.
- Ineffective assistance of counsel.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or lawful immigration status until shortly before filing.
For legal guidance, check U.S. Asylum Laws (8 CFR 208.4).
How to Apply for Asylum
Filing Form I-589
To initiate an asylum request, submit Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal).
- No filing fee is required.
- If you were placed in expedited removal but passed a credible fear interview, you do not need to file Form I-589.
For an overview of the application process, visit USCIS Affirmative Asylum Process.
Asylum and Immigration Status
- You may apply even if you are in the U.S. illegally.
- If convicted of a crime, asylum may still be possible, but disclosure of criminal history is required.
Family Inclusion in Asylum Applications
You can include your spouse and children (under 21 and unmarried) in your asylum application. If they are outside the U.S., file Form I-730 for derivative asylum status.
For family eligibility, visit USCIS Family of Refugees & Asylees.
Fingerprinting and Background Checks
- You and eligible dependents (ages 12 years, 9 months – 79 years) must undergo fingerprinting.
- Security checks include FBI database screening and criminal background assessments.
- Check fingerprinting locations via ASC Locator.
Travel Restrictions for Asylum Seekers
- If your asylum case is pending, you must obtain Advance Parole before traveling. File Form I-131.
- If granted asylum, apply for a Refugee Travel Document before departure to avoid re-entry issues.
For details on travel guidelines, see Travel for Asylum Applicants.
How Long Does the Asylum Process Take?
- USCIS aims to decide cases within 180 days of filing, barring exceptional circumstances.
- Check your case status online via the Case Status Portal.
Employment Authorization and Asylum Process
- You may apply for a work permit (Form I-765) 150 days after filing your asylum application.
- Work authorization is only granted after 180 days of a pending asylum application.
- Any delays you cause (e.g., missing your interview) will affect your work permit eligibility.
Apply for Employment Authorization Here
Affirmative Asylum Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Interview Last?
The interview typically lasts about an hour but may be extended based on case complexity.
Can I Bring Additional Evidence?
Yes. Any supporting documents, statements, or affidavits should be submitted during the interview.
How Can I Improve My Chances of Success?
- Be truthful and provide consistent answers.
- Offer detailed explanations of your experiences.
- Present credible supporting evidence.
Background and Security Checks
Will I Have to Undergo Additional Criminal or Security Checks?
Yes. Every asylum applicant must undergo background and security checks. No extra steps are required beyond submitting Form I-589 and attending fingerprinting. However, if the checks reveal disqualifying information, your case may be referred to immigration court.
Background check process:
- USCIS may share Form I-589 with the U.S. Department of State.
- Your biographical details will be sent to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
- Law enforcement databases will be reviewed.
- Applicants (ages 12 years and 9 months – 79 years) are fingerprinted at an Application Support Center or Designated Law Enforcement Agency. These fingerprints are checked against the Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT).
When Will I Be Fingerprinted?
- Once USCIS receives your Form I-589, you will receive a notice for fingerprinting.
- Fingerprinting is free, and results will be sent to USCIS.
- If applying for derivative asylum for your spouse and children (ages 12 years and 9 months – 79 years), they must also be fingerprinted.
For more details, visit the Fingerprint Requirements page.
Decisions on Asylum Applications
What is a Final Denial?
- If you receive a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) and fail to respond within 16 days or your response does not overturn the denial, you will receive a Final Denial.
What is My Status After Being Granted Asylum?
- You receive asylee status and a Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
- You can stay indefinitely in the U.S.
- You are authorized to work and may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- You can petition to bring your spouse and children to the U.S.
What Benefits Can Asylees Receive?
Asylees are eligible for:
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Unrestricted Social Security card
- Cash and medical assistance
- Employment support services
- Refugee Travel Document
More details at the Asylum Benefits Page.
What if My Asylum Case is Referred to Immigration Court?
- Immigration courts operate under the Executive Office for Immigration Review.
- Call 1-800-898-7180 (with your A-Number) for case details.
- Appeals must be filed within 30 days of a denial.
What is a Conditional Grant of Asylum?
- Previously, asylum based on coercive population control (CPC) policies had a cap of 1,000 per year.
- The Real ID Act of 2005 removed this cap, allowing eligible applicants to receive full asylum.
Asylum Interview Process
How Do I Reschedule My Asylum Interview?
- Submit a Request to Reschedule Asylum Interview at the asylum office handling your case.
- The first request is usually granted if received before the interview date.
Find the Asylum Office Locator here.
What Should I Bring to My Interview?
- Identification documents: Passport, travel documents, Form I-94
- Originals of birth/marriage certificates
- Copy of Form I-589 and additional supporting documents
- Interpreter (if needed)
- Attorney (if applicable)
- Spouse and/or children (if included as dependents)
What Happens at the Affirmative Asylum Interview?
- The interview typically lasts one hour.
- You and any interpreter must take an oath to be truthful.
- The officer will ask about your background and reasons for seeking asylum.
- Confidentiality laws protect the information shared.
- At the end, you can provide additional statements or documents.
What if My Attorney is Unavailable?
- USCIS does not guarantee interview rescheduling if your attorney is absent.
- You can proceed without an attorney or have your case referred to an Immigration Judge.
What if I Miss My Interview?
- You must provide a written explanation within 45 days.
- If no legal status, your case goes to Immigration Court.
- If you have valid status, your case may be administratively closed.
Missing your interview may also delay work authorization eligibility. Learn more about the 180-Day Asylum EAD Clock.
Interpreters at Asylum Interviews
Should I Bring an Interpreter?
- USCIS does not provide interpreters, except for hearing-impaired applicants.
- The interpreter must be fluent in English and your language and at least 18 years old.
- Who cannot be your interpreter?
- Your attorney
- A witness in your case
- A government official from your country
For interpreter regulations, see 8 CFR § 208.9(g).
What is the Role of Contract Interpreters?
- USCIS may use contract interpreters to monitor accuracy.
- These interpreters ensure neutral and precise translation.
Termination of Asylum Status
Can My Asylum Status Be Revoked?
Yes. Asylum can be revoked if:
- You no longer have a well-founded fear of persecution due to changed circumstances.
- You gain protection from another country.
- You commit certain crimes.
Path to Lawful Permanent Residency
- After one year in the U.S. as an asylee, you can apply for a Green Card.
- More details at Asylee Adjustment.
Why Choose Herman Legal Group for Your Asylum Case?
Navigating the U.S. asylum process is complex, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. A well-prepared I-589 application, a compelling supplement with supporting evidence, and strong representation at your asylum interview can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. The experienced immigration attorneys at Herman Legal Group understand the intricacies of asylum law and are dedicated to protecting your rights and future.
With years of experience handling asylum cases, our team will guide you through every step—ensuring your application is thorough, preparing you for tough interview questions, and advocating for you during your USCIS interview. Having a skilled attorney by your side can increase your chances of success and provide peace of mind during this critical process.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Don’t navigate your asylum case alone. Herman Legal Group is here to help. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration attorneys today to discuss your case and get the legal support you deserve.
📞 Call us at 216-696-6170
📧 Email us at richard@lawfirm4imigrants.com
🌐 Visit our website to book your consultation online.
Your future in the U.S. matters—let us help you fight for it.
Additional Resources
Visit the USCIS Asylum Page for Updates
- Related Links:
- Understanding asylum eligibility, filing procedures, and benefits can be complex. Be sure to stay updated on policy changes, file within one year, and seek legal guidance if needed. For official updates, visit USCIS Asylum Information.
- UNHCR Guide to the Asylum Process
- Legal Support for Asylum Seekers
- Find a Legal Representative
- U.S. Asylum Laws: INA Section 208
For legal references, see:
- Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) § 208(c)(2) (Termination of Asylum)
- 8 CFR § 208.10 (Interview Procedures)
- Executive Office for Immigration Review (Court System)
For assistance, call USCIS Contact Center: 1-800-375-5283.
How to Find Legal Assistance
- Avoid Scams: Visit the Avoid Scams page for guidance.
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