When a person seeks asylum, they are claiming that they have suffered or fear future persecution in their home country. This persecution may have been based on a protected ground such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or sexual orientation. In order to win asylum, an individual must prove both past persecution and a well founded fear of future persecution. The evidence that they provide will usually be their own testimony. It may also include additional evidence such as photographs showing how they were harmed, threatening letters, newspaper articles describing how they were harmed, or other official government documents.
It is also important for an asylum applicant to explain how their personal circumstances have changed since they entered the United States. For example, if they were included in a family member’s asylum application and their spouse no longer meets the requirements to be included in that case, it is crucial for them to write a letter explaining why their status has changed and how returning to their country would make them a target for harm.
It is also important to submit all of the necessary documentation to support their case, including a copy of their passport. They should also include any other relevant evidence such as membership cards from groups they were a part of, reports by local or international human rights organizations on conditions in their country of origin, and any other information that supports their claim. They should also include a copy of their asylum interview appointment letter with the date and time and any other important dates and deadlines.