The United States has introduced a new asylum rule that could affect Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking protection in the country.
The new rule allows asylum applications to be sent directly to immigration judges without applicants first attending an interview with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The change is aimed at reducing the large backlog of asylum cases.
Previously, USCIS handled asylum applications from people who were not facing deportation, while immigration judges under the Department of Justice decided cases involving people already in removal proceedings.
Under the old system, applicants whose cases were referred to an immigration judge usually had another opportunity to present their asylum claims after being interviewed by USCIS.
With the new interim rule, USCIS can now send certain asylum applications straight to an immigration judge without conducting an interview first.
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According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the change will help asylum officers and immigration judges process cases faster and reduce delays.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said the asylum system had been abused by some people seeking to delay deportation or obtain work authorization instead of genuine protection.
He said the new rule would help ensure that resources are focused on people with legitimate asylum claims.
DHS General Counsel James Percival also said delays in immigration cases have made enforcement more difficult, adding that the new rule would improve efficiency and support the government’s immigration enforcement efforts.
While the rule takes effect immediately, the USCIS will continue to receive public comments before issuing a final version of the policy.