FAQs - Center for Immigrant Protection

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t know anything about the asylum application. Where and how can I start the process?

In order to apply for asylum, you have to be in the USA. People apply for asylum to gain protection in a country, such as the United States, because they fear persecution and cannot return to their home country. The reasons for this fear must be based on one of five grounds: race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Asylum is granted to those who have suffered harm in the past or have a well-founded fear of future harm due to these specific reasons, and the government of their home country is either unable or unwilling to protect them from such harm.

Please visit this link for more info

In what areas can I receive (legal) support from you?

We provide free legal services to asylum seekers who reside in the San Francisco Asylum Jurisdiction (from Bakersfield, CA to Seattle, WA) If you would like to schedule a consultation with us, please fill in this form.

If you are in removal proceedings - we can provide legal services if your case is scheduled in San Francisco, Concord, or Sacramento immigration courts.

I already have an ongoing asylum application. Can you provide me with legal support?

Our policy is to carry out an asylum application from the very beginning until the end (asylum interview or court hearing decision). We are unable to accept or assist cases that are already in process.

In what areas can you refer me to other organizations in the USA?

Please study this document for our referral services.

I am outside the USA. Can I receive legal support from you?

Unfortunately, we cannot assist people outside of the USA. In order to apply for asylum, you have to be in the USA.

Can I receive legal support from you while I am in the USA?

I want to become a refugee. Can I receive legal support from you?

No. However, you may try contacting IRAP

I want to leave the country I live in, but I don’t have financial means. Can you buy me a plane ticket?

Unfortunately, we cannot assist people with obtaining plane tickets.

Can you help me obtain a visa to the USA?

Unfortunately, we cannot assist people with obtaining visas to come to the USA.

I am struggling with housing, food, and employment in my country. Can you provide me with financial assistance?

No. However, we have this document and you may find referrals for cash assistance in the list.

I want to seek asylum in a country other than the USA. Can you help me?

No. Please try contacting services directly in the country where you want to resettle.

I am in the USA and struggling with housing, food, education, and employment. Can you provide me with financial assistance and guidance?

No. However, we have this document and you may find referrals in the list.

Can you help me apply for a Green Card?

No. Please try contacting Oasis Legal Services

I can afford to hire an attorney for my asylum case, but I don’t know how to find a trustworthy, LGBTQ+ friendly lawyer. Can you help me?

You may find resources on the State Bar.

Can I receive a country report from you about the LGBTQ+ human rights violations and discrimination in my country of origin?

No. However, you may download country reports from U.S. Department of State

I am HIV positive. I cannot access necessary healthcare in my country. How can you help me?

Please try contacting We>HIV