Applying for asylum in Oklahoma follows the same federal process as in other states, but understanding the steps can help you avoid delays. If you fear persecution in your home country, seeking asylum allows you to stay in the U.S. legally. Here’s what you need to know about applying for asylum in Oklahoma.
Meet the eligibility requirements
To apply for asylum, you must show that you have suffered or fear persecution due to your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Your government or a group beyond its control must be responsible for the persecution. You must apply for asylum within one year of arriving in the U.S. unless you qualify for an exception.
Complete and submit Form I-589
You must complete Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. This form does not require a filing fee. Include supporting evidence, such as personal statements, news reports, medical records, or affidavits from witnesses. Mail the completed form to the appropriate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) service center.
Attend biometric screening
After submitting your application, USCIS sends a notice for biometric screening. This appointment takes place at a local Application Support Center (ASC), where officials collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. Biometric screening ensures security checks and background verification.
Go to the asylum interview
USCIS schedules an interview with an asylum officer at an asylum office or a USCIS field office in Oklahoma. During the interview, you answer questions about your application and provide additional evidence if necessary. If you do not speak English fluently, you must bring an interpreter. The officer determines whether you qualify for asylum.
Receive a decision
After the interview, USCIS either grants asylum, refers your case to an immigration judge, or issues a notice of intent to deny. If your case goes to immigration court, you present your claim before a judge. If you receive asylum, you may apply for a work permit and, later, a green card.
Next steps after asylum approval
With asylum status, you can stay in the U.S. indefinitely and work legally. After one year, you may apply for a green card, which leads to permanent residency. After four years as a green card holder, you can apply for U.S. citizenship.