When attending your asylum interview it is crucial to have a copy of your I-589 asylum application that was submitted. It will also be wise to bring along any documents that support your case for asylum. Other documents that will be needed include copies of your passport, birth certificate, registration cards, and marriage certificates. These items should all be translated in English for the Asylum Officer to read and understand.
Before your asylum interview, it also recommended making brief notes and collecting any letters that can substantiate your claim of mistreatment and persecution within your home country.
All details listed within the I-589 application should be carefully reviewed again for any discrepancies not previously noticed. If there are many statements of mistreatment and persecution listed on the application form, it may be a good idea to have this information memorized so you can appear confident during the interview.
During The Interview
The Asylum Officer will pay close attention to the statements made on the application form. Make a note of qualifying points to discuss based on each statement that is made. This time during the interview will be key to presenting your case and convincing the Asylum Officer that you do have a fear of persecution in your home country.
Try to expand on any statements included within your application in such a way that you give the interviewer a clear understanding of the situation faced in your country. At the end of the interview process, try to summarize all the main points of mistreatment and persecution faced.
The interview process will essentially answer two main questions, “Did you face persecution in your previous country?” and “Is there still a threat of persecution if you are sent back?” Thus it will be your responsibility to give evidence in regards to both of these questions. Evidence should be given in a chronological manner, with as many names and dates as possible. As this interview will determine whether you will be removed from the United States if denied, it will be at your advantage to give as much information as possible, even if it is painful to discuss.
After The Interview
The Asylum Officer will need to review your application again, along with the statements made, and the evidence provided. He or she can then make a decision to grant or deny asylum, and your lawyer will be notified of the decision.
Get Legal Help First
However, the information provided above is only to be used as a guideline for attending an asylum application. However, as the asylum procedure is quite complex, it is recommended you seek advice from an experienced attorney about your specific situation.
