Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law (COIL) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

To apply for asylum in the U.S., an applicant must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on specific characteristics, which encompass race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. This requirement underscores the legal framework surrounding asylum applications, as the U.S. aims to protect individuals fleeing from severe threats to their safety and freedom due to such persecution.

The concept of a "well-founded fear" implies that the applicant not only believes they could face persecution if they return to their home country, but also that this fear is based on credible evidence or experiences that make this fear reasonable. This aspect is central to the case for asylum, and applicants often provide reports, personal testimonies, and expert testimonies to substantiate their claims.

In contrast, other aspects of the application, such as a financial ability to support oneself or a guaranteed job offer in the U.S., are not requirements for obtaining asylum. While having a job or financial stability can be beneficial after the granting of asylum, they do not pertain to the necessity of demonstrating why protection is needed in the first place. Additionally, a verified criminal record is not only irrelevant for an asylum claim but can potentially harm an applicant's chances, as legal issues may be scrutin