Seeking asylum in the United States allows you to flee from your home country where your life is in danger. You can avoid prosecution in your country and make a life for yourself in the U.S. when you apply for an receive asylum.
Beyond the immediate benefit of being able to escape your home country and the danger you face there, asylum also provides you with a range of other benefits as you make your new home in this country.
Rights
According to the American Immigration Council, when you are an asylee, you gain some rights in the United States that allow you to make a life here more easily. You have the right to work legally for employers in the country.
You also have the right to certain government benefits and programs. You will also be able to travel outside of the country and return without issue. You may also be able to sponsor petitions to bring certain family members to the U.S.
Responsibilities
As an asylee, you will need to apply for a Social Security number. This will help you when you seek employment and for other responsibilities, such as paying taxes. It also is beneficial when you apply for government benefits.
After you have been in the country for one year as an asylee, you can get your green card or lawful permanent resident status. This will allow you to have access to more rights and benefits than you did before. In addition, once you become a lawful permanent resident, you can become a citizen after a four-year wait.
