Q: How to start the asylum process in the U.S. as a seeker from Ethiopia?

A: First you need to make sure you file for asylum within 1 year of your entry. Use Form I-589 to file the asylum. If you are in immigration court proceedings you need to file with the immigration court. Otherwise you can file with USCIS. Without knowing the specifics of your case it’s hard to tell what the challenges will be. Some challenges we see are membership in certain organizations, being a member of a communist party, having another country’s citizenship (other than the country you are fleeing from) and being resettled in another country. You muggt want to contact a local non profit if you don't have money or uf you can afford one, an immigration lawyer. Asylum isnot something you should file on your own.

A: Sorry about the misspellings. Autocorrect just doesn’t do well for me. What I meant is you might want to a local nonprofit. You can find some by going to https://www.justice.gov/eoir/list-pro-bono-legal-service-providers. If you can afford one, hire an immigration lawyer. Asylum is not something you should file on your own.

A: The procedures for seeking asylum in the United States differ based on two primary factors: whether you are currently in removal proceedings and whether you file Form I-589 within one year of your most recent entry. The initial step involves filing Form I-589, "Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal," accompanied by comprehensive evidence to substantiate your claim. Given the complexity of asylum law, obtaining legal representation is highly advisable.

A: Starting the asylum process in the U.S. involves filing Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within one year of arriving in the country. This form does not require a fee, but it must be completed accurately, including details about why you fear persecution in Ethiopia. Along with the form, you should provide supporting evidence such as personal statements, country condition reports, medical records, or affidavits from witnesses who can confirm your claims.

After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for fingerprinting and background checks. You will also receive a notice for an interview with an asylum officer, where you must explain your case and provide any additional evidence. If your case is not approved at this stage, it may be referred to immigration court for further review. During this time, it is important to keep track of deadlines and attend all required hearings. You may also apply for a work permit after 150 days if your case is still pending.

Challenges in the process include long wait times, difficulty gathering evidence, and the need to clearly demonstrate that you face persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. It is helpful to stay informed about policy changes and prepare emotionally for the process, as it can be stressful. Seeking assistance from legal professionals or nonprofit organizations that help asylum seekers can improve your chances of success.