Her Migrant Rights
Learn about the Asylum Seeking Process and Your Rights in NYC
Everybody has the right to seek/request asylum
Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 14
Important steps for asylum seekers in NYC
01
Apply for Asylum
File a Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, within one year of your arrival to the United States. Once you file the application, you will receive an A-number and form I-797 (Notice of Action).
02
Apply for Medicaid Essential Plan 4
Medicaid Essential Plan 4 is a free medical insurance that covers those ages 21-64 who are 'Legally Present' but not eligible for Medicaid and earn less than 100% of the Federal Poverty Level. Apply here. You will need: A-Number, Proof of Address.
03
Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) and Work Authorization Card
You can apply for your first card 180 days after you submit your application for asylum, not 365 days. And the processing times can be faster. For guidance: USCIS, Social Security, Asylum seeker advocacy project (ASAP), CASA.
04
Apply for IDNYC
ID NYC allows residents of New York City to enter government buildings, school buildings, and receive government services in NYC. With this ID, you can also receive discounts and access to cultural institutions like museums. Apply here. You will need: Photo ID, A document with your date of birth.
05
Apply for ID with New York State
For a New York State ID you will need: A Social Security Number (SSN), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), An address in New York State. See instructions and reservation information here. *note that asylum seekers are not eligible for an enhanced ID.
Medicaid Eligibility Checker
Social Security Number Status
Do you have a Social Security Number (SSN) or are you in the process of applying for one?
