The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has posted a new video which answers questions about the possibility of political asylum for Venezuelans. It is natural that people are curious to know about whether there are any special provisions for people fleeing the political turmoil that is currently happening there. The short answer is no, unfortunately. However, they may apply for asylum if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Eligibility for political asylum depends on an applicant’s particular facts and circumstances. Generalized violence or strife in one’s country does not create blanket asylum eligibility. The basic requirements are that one must have been persecuted or have a well-founded fear of future persecution “on account of” his or her race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or particular social group, among other factors, and cannot be internally relocated. The video further summarizes asylum eligibility and talks about current advocacy for Venezuelans. It is important to speak with an immigration attorney (whether in private practice or at a non-profit) to review your asylum case before applying, because frivolous or non-eligible cases may be referred to the Immigration Court for removal proceedings.
By Grace Alano. Grace Alano is an immigration attorney at The Law Offices of Grace R. Alano in San Francisco, CA. Find Grace Alano on Google+