Q : Can I Apply for Asylum Even if I Was Convicted of a Crime?

Yes, you may apply. However, you may be barred from being granted asylum depending on the crime. For more information about criminal bars to asylum, see INA § 208(b). You must disclose any criminal history on your Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal and at your asylum interview. Failure to disclose such information may result in your asylum claim being referred to the Immigration Court and possible fines or imprisonment for committing perjury.  For more detailed information on bars to receiving asylum, see “Bars to Applying for and Receiving Asylum”.

• Bars to Applying for and Receiving Asylum
  
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