I am from Iran and now living in Florida with my parents, who relocated here with me a few years ago. My father applied for asylum, and while his case is still pending, I have been attending high school and just turned 18. I’m concerned about what happens to me now that I am legally an adult. If my father’s asylum application gets approved, will I still qualify as a derivative on his case? Or do I need to apply for something separately to avoid issues with my own status?

Question

Jibril Elmi · Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases children can remain as derivatives on a parent’s asylum case if they were under 21 and unmarried when the application was filed. Turning 18 does not automatically remove you from the case.

Saowalak Suwannarat · Answer

You will need to make sure your name is properly included in your father’s asylum application and that you remain unmarried.

Marzanna Kowalska · Answer

If your father wins asylum, you can usually receive derivative asylum status as long as you were under 21 and single when he filed. Later, you may apply for a green card one year after being granted derivative asylum. However, if his case is denied or takes too long, you may need to explore your own options, such as applying independently or through another type of relief. It’s very important to track your eligibility closely because aging out can create complications.

Safura Alizadeh

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