Demystifying the Asylum Clock: A Guide for Asylum Seekers
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is the Asylum Clock?
- How to Check the Asylum Clock
- Checking the Clock for Immigration Court Cases
- Checking the Clock for USCIS Cases
- Stopping the Asylum Clock
- Restarting the Asylum Clock
- Mistakes and Corrections
- Seeking Legal Help
- Additional Resources
📅 Introduction
Understanding the asylum clock is crucial for asylum seekers and their advocates. This clock is used by both the immigration court and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to track the number of days since an asylum application is submitted. In this article, we will delve into what the asylum clock is, how to check it, reasons for its stoppage or restart, and how to navigate instances of clock errors. So, let's get started!
🕰️ What is the Asylum Clock?
The asylum clock is a tool used by both the immigration court and USCIS to track the number of days since an asylum application is submitted. It serves as a measure of eligibility for certain benefits, such as work permits. Once 150 days have elapsed on the clock, applicants can generally apply for a work permit, and at 180 days, they can receive one.
🔍 How to Check the Asylum Clock
Checking the asylum clock is essential to determine your eligibility for work permits and other benefits. The process varies depending on whether your case is in the immigration court or with USCIS. Let's explore both scenarios.
⚖️ Checking the Clock for Immigration Court Cases
If your case is in the immigration court, you can quickly check the number of days on your asylum clock by calling the court hotline at 1-800-898-7180. After following the instructions in English and confirming your A Number and name, you can press '2' to hear the number of days on your clock. It is advisable to check every few weeks if your clock hasn't reached 150 days yet.
📬 Checking the Clock for USCIS Cases
For asylum applications with USCIS, you need to count the days from the date of receipt on your asylum receipt notice. The date located on that part of the form indicates the date of receipt. Once you've reached 150 days from that date, you can submit your work permit application. For example, if your asylum application was received on September 1, 2021, you can calculate 150 days after that date to determine when you can apply for a work permit (January 29, 2022).
⏸️ Stopping the Asylum Clock
There are instances when the asylum clock may be stopped, impacting the progression towards work permit eligibility or other benefits. The factors determining a clock stoppage vary between immigration court cases and USCIS cases.
🏛️ Immigration Court Cases
In immigration court cases, the asylum clock may be stopped if either the individual or their lawyer requests more time to find legal representation or to prepare the case. It is essential to note that clock stoppages can occur in these circumstances, delaying the accumulation of additional eligible days.
📝 USCIS Cases
In USCIS cases, the asylum clock can be stopped if the applicant misses an interview or a biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment, or requests to reschedule an interview. These events can lead to a pause in the clock, potentially affecting the eligibility timeline for work permits and other benefits.
🔄 Restarting the Asylum Clock
If you discover that your asylum clock has stopped and you're unsure why, you have options to restart it depending on your case type.
🏛️ Immigration Court Cases
In immigration court cases, contacting the court administrator is the first step in resolving a clock stoppage. You can reach out to the court and inquire about how to communicate with the court administrator. The court administrator can correct errors and restart the clock, ensuring the accurate count of eligible days. However, it's important to note that the clock may resume based on the next immigration court hearing and acceptance of a merits hearing date.
📝 USCIS Cases
For USCIS cases, if you believe there has been an error with your asylum clock, you can call your asylum office. You can find the contact information for your specific asylum office by entering your zip code on the linked website. By explaining the issue to the asylum office, they can provide guidance and assistance in resolving clock-related problems.
❓ Mistakes and Corrections
It's crucial to address any mistakes or discrepancies regarding the asylum clock promptly. In cases where you suspect an error, reaching out to the appropriate authorities, such as the immigration court or USCIS, can help clarify the issue and provide solutions. Promptly addressing potential mistakes ensures that your eligibility for work permits and other benefits is accurately reflected.
🤝 Seeking Legal Help
Navigating the asylum process and dealing with asylum clock-related matters can be complex. Seeking legal assistance is highly recommended, considering the expertise they provide in handling asylum cases. For resources on finding a lawyer and additional information about the asylum process, work permits, and more, please visit ASAP's website, linked below this video.
📚 Additional Resources
For more information and assistance, please refer to the following resources:
