Withholding of Removal Status in Maryland
Withholding of removal is a benefit that allows applicants to remain in the United States if they can show that their life or freedom would be threatened if they are removed to their country of origin, due to their membership in a particular social group, religion, their nationality, race, or political opinion. Those who are in removal proceedings and apply for asylum are also considered for withholding of removal.
If you need assistance applying for withholding of removal status in Maryland, reach out to an experienced immigration attorney today. They can help you file a strong application or advise you about other ways to remain in the United States.
Relationship Between Withholding of Removal and Asylum
People may be granted withholding of removal if they do not meet the eligibility requirements for asylum or they did not meet an exemption to the one-year deadline. Additionally, if the applicant had any past criminal or immigration issues that make them ineligible for asylum, they may still qualify for withholding of removal. If someone is in removal proceedings, the immigration judge can deny asylum on discretionary grounds but still grant them withholding of removal.
Withholding of Removal vs. Asylum Benefits
When a person is granted asylum, they are able to apply to become a lawful permanent resident after being an asylee for one year. When they become a lawful permanent resident, they are also able to petition for family members to come to the United States. After being a lawful permanent resident for four years and nine months, they can apply to become a U.S. citizen. None of those benefits are offered with withholding of removal status in Maryland. The person will not be a lawful permanent resident, and they will not have a path to U.S. citizenship.
When a person has been granted withholding of removal, it only gives them the ability to remain in the U.S. and to be given employment authorization. Having withholding of removal can cause some difficulties in obtaining certain benefits under state law or eligibility in government programs, depending on the in which the individual resides.
Once someone is granted withholding of removal, they are not allowed to travel outside of the U.S. without relinquishing that protection. Unlike asylum, there is no one-year deadline for withholding of removal, so the applicant does not have to apply within one year of their last entry into the United States.
Ask a Maryland Attorney About Withholding of Removal Status
If you were denied asylum, you may still be eligible to remain in the United States on different grounds, such as withholding of removal or CAT. Although these statuses do not provide the same benefits as asylum, they are a valuable alternative to consider if you will face persecution or torture in your home country.
To discuss your situation and the legal options available, reach out to a dedicated immigration lawyer today. They can help you apply for withholding of removal status in Maryland or advise you about other ways to remain in the United States. Call today to set up a consultation.