The United States is a popular destination for people the world over. It's not easy to enter and live in the US as a citizen, however. The US permits people who can prove persecution to enter the US legally. Being granted refugee status can be a complex action, however. Read on to find out more.

First Steps in Your Home Country

The process begins when you make contact with an agency in your home country. The US has designated the United Nations High Commission for Refugees and the United States Refugee Admissions Program as screening services for those wishing to obtain refugee status. Once you make contact with one of those agencies, you may then be referred to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Expect to complete the application for refugee status for all members of your family that will be immigrating with you.

Do You Need a Financial Sponsor?

Refugees have to demonstrate that they can afford to make the trip and live in the US once they arrive. While some refugees have the financial resources to show, many do not. If you have relatives or a contact in the US that could provide financial assistance, you might qualify for entrance. You might also be provided with financial help using any number of aid organizations.

The Interview

The next step is to be interviewed by a USCIS representative. Be ready to appear with all family members named on your application. This interview is a critical event in the process. Obtaining refugee status depends on proving that you are suffering from persecution in your home country. The USCIS is looking for people that are being subjected to or that fear being subjected to physical or other forms of harm such as threats or actions based on:

• Religion
• Political affiliation
• Nationality
• Race

and more

Proving Persecution

Unfortunately, your own statements of persecution may not be enough to gain refugee status. Be ready with statements from others who know of your plights like officials, friends, relatives, teachers, doctors, and more. You can also use widely known incidents reported by human rights organizations that provide proof of general persecution in your country.

Immigration Legal Help

As you can see, gaining refugee status for immigration can be a complex issue. Immigration experts are available to assist you, however. Speak to an immigration attorney in the US about your case by phone and have an experienced advocate to advise and support you every step of the way. Having this type of contact working on your behalf in the US will be invaluable to your case. Speak to an immigration attorney today.