Definition
Asylum
Protection for people inside the U.S. who fear persecution in their home country.
Asylum is a form of protection under INA §208 for individuals who meet the definition of a refugee: a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Affirmative asylum is filed with USCIS; defensive asylum is raised in removal proceedings.
See also
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.