What documents do I need to apply for asylum because of changing my religion?
Question Details:
I live in an Islamic country. I was a Muslim but then I changed my beliefs. The punishment for changing religion in Islamic countries is death. I'm being blackmailed and tortured for the last 7 months.
You will need to show documented proof that you have been persecuted on the basis of your religious beliefs by the government in your home country or by other entities under the control or influence of the government. You can certainly provide your own affidavit and those of others (family, friends, co-workers, neighbors) who may have witnessed your being tortured, etc. but it is best if it is documented through external means (like documents). There is also no guarantee that your application for asylum will be approved. You will need to make the application for asylum within a year of entering the US unless there are extenuating circumstances. Please note that this is an are of immigration law that is scrutinized rather closely by the immigration authorities as there tend to be many fraudulent cases being filed.