Legal fees depend on the attorney you consult. To be eligible for asylum in the United States, you must meet the following criteria: Fear of Persecution: You must have a well-founded fear of persecution based on: Race Religion Nationality Political opinion Membership in a particular social group Past Persecution: You must have experienced persecution in the past or have a reasonable fear of future persecution. Unable to Return: You must be unable or unwilling to return to your home country due to fear of persecution. Apply within One Year: You must apply for asylum within one year of arriving in the United States (with some exceptions). Meet the Definition of a Refugee: You must meet the US definition of a refugee, which includes being outside your home country and unable to return due to fear of persecution.