Compassionate & Experienced U.S Asylum Lawyer
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., we provide compassionate legal support to individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Attorney Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette understands the fear of persecution and guides clients through every step of the process—from applying for protection to pursuing a green card and citizenship.
Asylum law is complex and constantly evolving. Having an experienced asylum attorney by your side can make all the difference. Asylum is a legal protection given to foreign nationals who are in the U.S. or waiting at the border and who cannot return to their home countries due to fear of persecution. If you are granted asylum, you will have the right to stay in the U.S., work legally, and even apply for a green card and eventually citizenship
Who qualifies for asylum in the U.S?
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C. in Salem, MA, we’re here to guide you through every step with clarity and compassion.
To qualify for asylum in the United States, you must be physically present in the country and not a U.S. citizen. Your application must be filed within one year of arrival, unless exceptional circumstances apply. You may include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 as dependents in your claim.
You may seek asylum if you have experienced—or fear you will experience—persecution based on:
Race
Religion
Nationality
Membership in a particular social group
Political opinion
FAQs
Can Asylum Seekers work in the U.S?
If you’ve applied for asylum in the U.S., you may be eligible to work legally while your case is pending. After 150 days, you can submit Form I-765 to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)—but it won’t be issued until your application has been pending for 180 days.
Once asylum is granted, you’re immediately authorized to work. At MCD Immigration Law, P.C. in Salem, MA, we help guide asylum seekers through every step of the EAD process with clarity and care.
Can Asylees Get a Green Card? Your Path to Permanent Residency
If you’ve been granted asylum in the United States, you may apply for a green card after one year. This process involves filing Form I-485, “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.” Each family member who received derivative asylum status must submit a separate application.
Reuniting Families Through Derivative Asylee Sponsorship
If you’ve been granted asylum in the United States within the past two years, you may be eligible to sponsor certain family members to join you under derivative asylee status. This important pathway reflects the U.S. government's commitment to family unity and the protection of human rights for those fleeing persecution.
Who Can You Sponsor?
Eligible relatives typically include:
Your spouse
Your unmarried children under 21
These relationships must have existed before your asylum was granted to qualify.
How to Begin the Sponsorship Process
To bring your loved ones to the U.S., you’ll need to file Form I-730: Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. This form is specifically designed for family reunification, and there’s no filing fee, making it more accessible for families seeking safety and stability.
What Happens After Approval?
Once your petition is approved:
Your family members can enter the United States
They will receive asylee status, just like you
They’ll be eligible to apply for work authorization
They can later pursue permanent residency (green card) through similar procedures
This process not only protects your loved ones—it allows you to build a new life together in peace and security.
Need Help Navigating the Process?
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C. in Salem, MA, attorney Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette and our compassionate legal team are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need help filing Form I-730 or understanding eligibility requirements, we’re ready to support your journey toward family reunification.