Refugee/Asylum Status

This special status allows foreigners with a fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion to seek refugee status in this country.  When applications are approved, the foreigner is admitted to the US as a refugee and are eligible for adjustment of status to permanent residence one year from the date of their admission.  Aliens already in the US can apply for political asylum.  Limitations are placed on the number of persons granted asylum who can adjust to permanent resident status after one year in asylum status.