Most refugees and asylum seekers have a family waiting for them at home. And while they might succeed at getting their own documents, there is a completely new procedure when it comes to family members (in particular spouses and children under 21).
Form I-730 is the basis of application. It is also known as Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition allowing a family to be joined with their family member who already received asylum or refugee status. It is mainly focused on spouses and their children but there might be certain exceptions allowing adopted children and stepchildren to get their opportunity of starting a new life in the US.
When we talking about refugees and asylum seekers, we refer to people who are being persecuted in their own country for various reasons. Whether it’s due to their race, religion, political onion or something else, these individuals are no longer able to live in their home country as their very existence is endangered. Keep in mind that people who are from the US cannot apply for asylum.
Things to keep in mind
While the whole process is streamlined for quicker execution and better results, there are certain things you need to know before starting it.
First and foremost, we urge all asylum seekers and refugees to get a good asylum lawyer. One such individual should practice asylum law for a while, be well versed in this particular topic and have a good track record. Make sure to find a lawyer who specializes in this field as this will provide optimal results.
Person who has received asylum needs to have a previous relationship with the relative prior to applying for their own documents. This relationship needs to persist even when the form has been filled. This is especially important for spouses as there are a lot of people who get married once they receive their documents in order to transfer asylum right to a person they didn’t know prior to that. This is a common scheme and people are willing to pay good money for it.
When it comes to children, there are several things to note. The child has to be under 21 when applying for the documents. In terms of stepchildren, they have to be under 18 while adopted child should be under 16. Again, this is used as a way of deterring those who would stoop to illegal strategies in order to acquire documents.
How to file I-730 form?
- General information about petitioner
- Asylum seeker’s status
- Information about the relative
- Travel information as well as languages being spoken
- Deadline
- Warnings, signatures, interview section
- Other important information
Like with any other asylum document, it is very important to be honest.
If you don’t speak fluent English and especially, if you have trouble understanding some of the terminology, it is much better to get a translator. When filling the form, make sure to follow the instructions up to the point. The fact you received the documents doesn’t mean that your relatives will so make sure to be honest troughout!