On average, only one in two hundred asylum applicants is granted refugee status in the United States.
Synopsis
On average, only one in two hundred asylum applicants is granted refugee status in the United States.
Go deeperSynopsis
Inside the asylum office of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service, asylum officers conduct interviews with applicants seeking refuge in the United States. The film follows individuals from countries such as China, El Salvador, and Nigeria as they present their cases. Each applicant must demonstrate a "well-founded fear" of persecution in their home country. The outcome often hinges on the effectiveness of translators and the discretion of the officers. Changes in legislation since filming have further complicated the asylum process.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See real asylum interviews at the INS office.
- Meet asylum officers and their daily challenges.
- Find out how U.S. laws changed after the film.
Did You Know
- Only one in two hundred asylum applicants is admitted as a refugee.
- The film features asylum cases from eight different countries.
- The film was an Official Selection at the 2000 Sundance Film Festival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average acceptance rate for asylum applicants in the U.S.?
On average, only one in two hundred asylum applicants is ever admitted as a refugee to the U.S.
What legislation changed the asylum application process in the U.S.?
Congress passed legislation that reduced the number of people eligible to apply for asylum and limited the right to appeal some decisions from asylum officers.
Which countries are represented by asylum applicants in the film?
The film examines cases involving individuals from China, El Salvador, Albania, Nigeria, Romania, Algeria, France, and Russia.
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