Your Rights When Seeking Russian Asylum

Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, announced a “partial mobilization” of the military forces on September 21, 2022. In accordance with the promised call-up, officials stated they planned to draft 300,000 civilians into the military. As a result, “Povestka” draft papers were distributed to thousands of Russians across the country. 

Russian Asylum in the U.S.

Because of the current conflict, Russian citizens, who are unwilling to fight because of their political views, have been seeking methods to flee from Russia. As a result, those who have relatives living in the U.S. have been pondering their “escape,” or how to make their next move. This development has led to questions about Russian asylum in the U.S.

How the U.S. is Handling Asylum Issues

During a press conference on September 27, 2022, reporters questioned White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre about the US perspective on this latest event regarding the draft. 

The White House per Ms. Jean-Pierre’s statement declared that the Russian people shouldn’t be held accountable for the actions of their government. Without regard to nationality, she stated, “Anyone seeking asylum from persecution may apply for asylum in the United States, and their application will be decided on a case-by-case basis.” 

People may now have inquiries regarding the American asylum procedure after hearing this news.

However, this announcement does not imply that the U.S. will automatically grant a Russian citizen refuge. Instead, each person requesting Russian asylum in the U.S. must submit an application.

Officials will evaluate the document on its own merits. Also, an asylum for Russian speakers will not be granted by visiting a U.S. embassy or consulate. 

You can only ask for this privilege by showing your presence at a U.S. port of entry or by residing in the U.S. Therefore, once you arrive, you need to contact a Russian immigration attorney immediately.

Also, keep the following in mind: the mere action of evading a draft notice is not enough to qualify for Russian asylum. Therefore, if you refuse to enlist, you must show that you’re unable to return to Russia because of fear of persecution. This type of harassment must be related to your choice of religion, your nationality, a specific social group, or your political affiliation.

Basic Recap: Eligibility Requirements for Asylum in the U.S.

In basic terms, applying for asylum in the United States can only be done, as follows:

1. You must physically show up at a U.S. port of entry or be physically present in the U.S. when you apply for asylum.
2. You need to submit document Form I-589, or an Application for Asylum, to make a request.
3. You can list your children and spouse on the application.
4. You’re not allowed to apply for asylum if you’ve been given refuge in another country.

When you speak to a Russian immigration attorney, they can give you further details and guidance on how to proceed. Again, it’s important to show U.S. immigration officials that you either have the fear of being persecuted or have been persecuted because of your religion, race, national origin, or political or social membership.

In general terms then, asylum refers to the protection given to foreign nationals who are unable to return home due to fear of persecution. The U.S. grants asylum when an individual meets certain stringent qualifications, or is found to have a verifiable fear of maltreatment, expulsion, imprisonment, or death if they return to Russia.

Be aware that asylum is not the same as refugee status. However, both forms of immigration may lead to permanent residency after a year.

While an asylee seeks to obtain refuge while they’re in the U.S. a refugee tries to gain entry and refuge outside the U.S. These kinds of distinctions make it necessary to gain direction from a Russian immigration attorney.

Why You Should Consult with a Lawyer

Indeed, you need to seek counsel with an attorney who speaks Russian and English, as it takes the U.S. government a long time to process asylum applications. While your application is pending, or after 150 days, you may apply for an employment authorization card (EAD). Your lawyer can help you with this application as well, which is filled out using form I-765.

You won’t be issued an EAD for another 30 days (a total of 180 days wait time) while your asylum app remains pending. This waiting period is called the 180-day EAD clock.

If you are already a citizen of the United States and intend to apply for asylum, you should speak with an immigration lawyer as soon as possible to determine your candidacy. People are more likely to receive this form of protection if they are represented by skilled lawyers who are allowed to practice law in the United States.

Call the Paniotto Law Firm If You’re a Russian Asylee

Because obtaining Russian asylum is a very complicated and involved process, you need solid legal support or the backing of a knowledgeable immigration legal professional. In California, call the Paniotto Law Firm for more details. Contact 213-534-1827 about your case today.