Expedite Your Asylum Case in the USA: Unlock Swift Paths to Safety
Seeking asylum in the United States can be a daunting journey, especially considering the current asylum processing times that often exceed 10 years for most cases. We understand the frustrations and uncertainty that accompany such prolonged waiting periods, and we empathize with the emotional toll it can take on individuals seeking protection. In this article, we aim to provide you with valuable information on how to potentially expedite your affirmative asylum case pending at an asylum office. We hope these strategies can offer you some hope and relief during this challenging process. Remember, you are not alone, and we wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of asylum.
Step 1: Request an Expedite through the Asylum Office
When pursuing an expedited processing of your asylum case, one avenue to explore is submitting a request directly to the Asylum Office. Follow these steps to make your request:
Prepare a written request: Draft a letter explaining the reasons why you believe your case merits expedited processing. Clearly articulate any urgent circumstances, such as imminent danger or severe hardship, that require swift action. Be sure to include supporting documents and evidence, if available.
Contact the Asylum Office: Reach out to the Asylum Office handling your case and inquire about the process for submitting an expedite request. You can find the contact information for your specific Asylum Office on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Submit your request: Send your written request, along with any supporting documents, to the designated contact at the Asylum Office. Be sure to keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Step 2: Request an Expedite through Your Congressman
Another potential avenue to expedite your asylum case involves seeking assistance from your congressional representative. Follow these steps to locate and contact your congressman:
Determine your representative: Visit the official website of the U.S. House of Representatives or use online resources like GovTrack.us or OpenStates.org to identify your congressional representative. Enter your zip code or state to find the appropriate representative for your district.
Obtain contact information: Once you have identified your representative, gather their contact information, including their office address, phone number, and email address. These details are typically available on the representative's official website.
Reach out for assistance: Craft a concise and compelling letter explaining your situation and the reasons why expedited processing is necessary. Attach any supporting documentation that can strengthen your case. Send the letter via email, physical mail, or both to your representative's office. You may also consider contacting their local office or scheduling an in-person appointment, if feasible.
Step 3: Request to be Placed on Your Asylum Office's "Short List"
Some Asylum Offices maintain a "short list" of cases that may be prioritized for expedited processing. Here's how you can potentially request to be placed on this list:
Inquire about the short list: Contact your Asylum Office and inquire about the existence of a short list for expedited cases. Seek information on the criteria and process for inclusion.
Provide compelling reasons: If the short list exists, submit a written request to be considered for inclusion. Highlight any urgent circumstances or compelling reasons that warrant expedited processing. Include relevant supporting documents to strengthen your case.
Follow up and maintain communication: Regularly follow up with your Asylum Office to ensure that your request is being reviewed and processed. Stay in touch with the assigned officer, providing any additional documentation or updates as necessary.
Section 4: Sue for Mandamus
In extreme cases where all other options have been exhausted, individuals may consider filing a lawsuit known as a Mandamus action. This legal action seeks to compel the government to make a decision on their pending asylum case. It is essential to consult an experienced immigration attorney to assess the viability of this approach and guide you through the complex legal process.
IMPORTANT: If you are already working with an attorney on your asylum case, do not take any of these steps without first discussing it with your attorney. Doing so could be a violation of your attorney-client agreement and be grounds for the attorney to terminate your representation.
Navigating the asylum process in the United States can be a challenging and lengthy endeavor. While there are no guarantees of expediting your case, exploring the avenues we have discussed may provide some hope and potential for swift resolution. Remember, it is crucial to consult an attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. Stay resilient and know that many people stand with you in your pursuit of asylum. Wishing you the best of luck in your journey towards safety and protection.