Hablando con Carolina: What to Expect from the Asylum Interview Process
In the latest episode of Hablando con Carolina, immigration attorney Carolina Antonini discusses current immigration news and breaks down what to expect before, during, and after your asylum interview.
If you have questions about how these developments may affect your immigration case, contact Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Atlanta immigration attorneys.
At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.
02:57 – New Pause on Immigrant Visa Processing
Carolina discusses a new pause affecting visa processing for individuals from dozens of countries while consular officers receive additional guidance and training related to public charge determinations. She explains how the pause could affect individuals seeking immigrant visas or permanent residence through consular processing.
06:37 – Stricter Scrutiny of Public Charge Factors
You may face greater scrutiny if a consular officer believes you will become a public charge or require government financial aid. Officers may consider factors such as your finances, employment, education, debts, tax history, savings, and other circumstances.
Carolina encourages you to speak with an experienced Antonini & Cohen immigration attorney before a consular or immigration interview so you can understand how these factors could affect your case and prepare accordingly.
13:43 – Applying for Asylum After Entering on a Visitor Visa
Immigration is canceling visitor visas for certain individuals who enter the United States and later apply for asylum. If officials allege that you entered with the intention of staying permanently, you could face allegations of fraud or misrepresentation that may affect your asylum case or future ability to obtain permanent residence.
20:00 – How Should You Submit New Evidence Before Your Asylum Interview?
Carolina recommends having your updated evidence prepared in advance so it can be submitted promptly once the interview is scheduled. She also stresses the importance of carefully reviewing the instructions included with your interview notice and ensuring the asylum office receives your updated documents with enough time for them to be added to your case.
22:05 – What Should You Bring to Your Asylum Interview?
There are four things you should bring to your asylum interview:
An Immigration Attorney: Although an immigration attorney is not legally required for an affirmative asylum interview, having an attorney will help you feel prepared and ready to answer any questions from the asylum officer. An attorney may also document what occurs during the interview and, when permitted, provide a closing statement explaining why you qualify for asylum under the law.
Original Documents: Carefully review your interview notice and prepare the required documents, such as identification documents, passports, birth and marriage certificates when applicable, original versions of documents previously submitted, and a complete copy of your asylum application and supporting evidence.
Listed Family Members: Family members listed as derivative applicants may be required to attend the interview. Failure to appear may result in them being placed in removal proceedings.
Competent Interpreter: If you need an interpreter, make sure you have a competent interpreter who meets the applicable requirements. Translation errors could negatively affect your case.
26:47 – What Happens After an Asylum Interview?
You may receive your decision by mail or be asked to return to the asylum office. If your asylum is granted, you and qualifying family members included in your case will receive asylum status and may later become eligible to apply for permanent residence.
If your asylum is not granted and you do not otherwise have lawful immigration status, your case will be referred to immigration court, where you may continue fighting for asylum as a defense in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.
Prepare for Your Asylum Interview with A&C
Because an asylum interview can have significant consequences for your immigration case, preparation is essential.
If you have received an asylum interview notice, need to update your asylum application, or have questions about how recent immigration changes may affect you, contact Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Atlanta immigration attorneys.
At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.
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For more episodes of Hablando con Carolina, click here.
